Learning Objectives
- Be able to identify potential risk of harm to a child
- Be able to respond appropriately to identified risk of harm to a child
In some mental health settings, children are involved and are a particularly vulnerable group of consumers. Students need to be familiar with identifying potential for harm to children and the reporting requirements if the situation arises. Queensland Health also has an open access educational resource Child abuse and neglect education module, Responsibility, recognising and reporting: A resource for the interdisciplinary team aimed at developing your capabilities including responsibilities and the ability to recognise and build the confidence to report suspicion of child abuse and neglect.
The Department of Communities has produced a practice resource with instructions on how to complete a child safety assessment.
Children of Parents with a Mental Illness (COPMI) is a website that contains comprehensive resources for support and working with parents who have mental health problems.
The most important thing to remember if you have any concerns is to immediately communicate this with your clinical educator.
Reflection Activity
Identify some risk factors that may be associated with child harm. Discuss with your clinical educator and provide a potential action plan, as would be the case if you came across a child at risk.
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