The environment is just one aspect of keeping children safe and protected, but could be said to be a basis for much of what contributes to safeguarding a child's welfare. However, if practitioners identify a child who is vulnerable or in need of protection, action must then be taken using policies and procedures already in place and tools such as the Common Assessment Framework which could in itself be described as a form of risk assessment when used by all agencies involved with an individual child and family who are in need of support.
Parents awareness of the settings policies and procedures for safeguarding children promote confidence about safety and this will be reflected in their child's experiences. All settings must be aware of the procedures for dealing with concerns about a child's welfare as set out by their Local Safeguarding Children Board and the practice guidance "What to Do If You're Worried a Child Is Being Abused". Download a copy and further information about the Common Assessment Framework from: