Exam Pass Notes

Download (Word)

A Simple Reception Memory Aid

• Notice the child
• Listen safely
• Do not investigate
• Record facts
• Escalate concern
• Check ownership

Recognition

• Safeguarding concerns may surface during appointments, prescription requests, phone calls, desk contacts and online messages.
• Common indicators include fear, withdrawal, unexplained injuries, signs of neglect, exploitation, online harm, effects of domestic abuse and repeated non-attendance.
• Look for patterns across contacts, for example missed reviews, gaps in medication or previous safeguarding records, rather than treating a single episode in isolation.
• Young people may need confidential access or clinician input without having to disclose sensitive details at reception; provide a safe way for them to request that.

Response

• Listen calmly and acknowledge that the person has done the right thing by telling you.
• Avoid leading questions; do not investigate or confront adults at the desk.
• Do not promise secrecy; explain clearly that you may need to tell the right person to keep the child safe.
• Use emergency routes where a child may be in immediate danger or needs urgent medical attention.

Records and Sharing

• Record exact words, observable facts, who was present, what you did and who you informed.
• Use factual language rather than vague labels like "family issues" or "chaotic".
• Protect safe contact, for example where texts, proxy access or online records could increase risk.
• Share safeguarding information via the practice's approved, timely and proportionate routes.

Escalation and Culture

• Use the practice safeguarding lead, duty clinician, manager and local child protection routes.
• Escalation is not an accusation; it ensures the right people consider the level of risk.
• Use professional challenge if a concern is minimised or if responsibility is unclear.
• Staff should be supported after distressing disclosures or difficult safeguarding contacts.