Reading List

These official publications underpin the course content and are suitable for supervision, policy review, refresher learning and multi-agency follow-up. The list includes England and NICE guidance used in the course, with separate signposting for Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland so staff are clear where arrangements differ across the UK.

England core guidance

• Working Together to Safeguard Children 2026
  England statutory guidance on multi-agency safeguarding, information sharing, mutual challenge and child-centred practice.
• NICE NG76: Child abuse and neglect
  Guidance on recognising abuse and neglect, responding when children disclose concerns and planning appropriate support.
• NICE NG76 recommendations
  The specific recommendations on disclosures, vulnerability factors, recognising signs and responding to abuse or neglect concerns.
• Children's homes regulations, including quality standards: guide
  Official guide to the Children's Homes Regulations 2015, with guidance on safeguarding culture, leadership, protection and care planning in children's homes.
• Social care common inspection framework (SCCIF): children's homes
  England inspection framework covering expectations for safeguarding response, information sharing, handling allegations and record quality.

Wales signposting

• Sharing information to safeguard children
  Welsh Government guidance on duties and responsibilities for information sharing to safeguard children.
• Safeguarding guidance
  Welsh Government collection of safeguarding guidance and related procedures.

Scotland signposting

• National Guidance for Child Protection in Scotland 2021 - updated 2023
  Scotland's national child protection guidance on roles, assessment, action and multi-agency safeguarding.
• Getting it right for every child (GIRFEC) Practice Guidance 4 - Information sharing
  Practical Scotland guidance on information sharing, recording decisions and using professional judgement.

Northern Ireland signposting

• Co-operating to Safeguard Children and Young People in Northern Ireland
  Northern Ireland's framework for organisations and agencies working with children and young people.
• Guidance on Information Sharing for Child Protection Purposes
  Guidance on timely and effective sharing of child-protection information in Northern Ireland.

For everyday practice, consult the child’s current plan and your home's safeguarding procedure first. Use these official sources for wider guidance when needed.