Sexualised behaviour
Many practitioners, parents & carers find it difficult to distinguish between what is normal and what is problematic sexual behaviour of children and young people. We are often faced with cultural, gender, political & legal issues whilst considering safety.
The guidance below will help us to understand healthy sexual behaviour & assess and respond appropriately.
However practitioners should always consider whether the sexual behaviour is unhealthy and whether there is a significant risk of harm to children and young people involved in or witnessing this behaviour, If you are concerned then you should always make a referral to Children’s Social Care. Similarly you should consider the vulnerability of adults involved and consider a referral to Adult Safeguarding.
Below are Sheffield Children Safeguarding Partnership (SCSP) and other fact sheets, policies, protocols and training to help you and your workforce understand the issues involved, know when to ask for support and to get help when it is needed.
SCSP fact sheets, policy, resources:
National resources:
Other relevant information can be found on this website here: Information and resources or in the index on the left side of this page.
If you are concerned about a child or young person, follow this link: Referring a safeguarding concern to Children’s Social Care