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Module 11: Knowledge of National and International Issues Overview

Introduction

In the globalized world, safeguarding professionals must possess an understanding that transcends local contexts, embracing both national and international perspectives on safeguarding issues. This module aims to expand participants’ knowledge base to include awareness of relevant national and international safeguarding issues, policies, and practices. It will explore the implications of these global perspectives for local safeguarding practices and the professional role in legal proceedings.

Expanding Knowledge Base

National Legislation and Frameworks

  • Children Acts 1989 and 2004: Set out the legal basis for the care and protection of children in England and Wales, introducing significant principles like the welfare of the child being paramount.
    • [https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1989/41/contents]
    • [https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2004/31/contents]
  • Care Act 2014: Establishes the framework for adult social care in England, emphasizing well-being, prevention, and the integration of care and support.
    • [https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2014/23/contents/enacted]
  • Equality Act 2010: Consolidates anti-discrimination laws in the UK, promoting equality of opportunity and protecting individuals from unfair treatment.
    • [https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2010/15/contents]

International Conventions and Guidelines

  • United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC): An international agreement that protects the rights of children worldwide.
    • [https://www.ohchr.org/en/instruments-mechanisms/instruments/convention-rights-child]
  • Istanbul Convention: Aims to prevent and combat violence against women and domestic violence at an international level.
    • [https://www.coe.int/en/web/istanbul-convention]
  • Palermo Protocols: Focuses on preventing, suppressing, and punishing trafficking in persons, especially women and children.
    • [https://www.unodc.org/unodc/en/treaties/CTOC/index.html]

Implications for Practice

  • Understanding Global Trends: Stay informed about global trends in safeguarding, such as online exploitation, human trafficking, and international child abduction, and their implications for local practice.
  • Cultural Competence: Develop cultural competence to effectively safeguard individuals from diverse backgrounds, respecting cultural differences while upholding safeguarding standards.
  • Legal Proceedings: Recognize the professional’s role in legal proceedings that may involve international aspects, ensuring that actions are informed by both national and international legal standards.

Strategies for Staying Informed

  • Continuous Professional Development: Engage in ongoing learning opportunities, such as webinars, conferences, and online courses focused on global safeguarding issues.
  • Networking: Build networks with professionals from other countries to exchange knowledge and experiences, enhancing understanding of safeguarding in different cultural contexts.

References for Further Study

  • NSPCC Learning: Offers resources on safeguarding children with a focus on UK legislation and practices.
    • [https://learning.nspcc.org.uk/]
  • Social Care Institute for Excellence (SCIE): Provides guidance on adult safeguarding, with references to UK laws and international perspectives.
    • [https://www.scie.org.uk/adults/safeguarding]

Conclusion

A comprehensive understanding of both national and international safeguarding issues is essential for professionals working in this field. By incorporating global perspectives into local practices, safeguarding professionals can ensure they provide the most effective protection and support for all individuals, respecting cultural differences and adhering to international standards. Continuous learning and collaboration are key to navigating the complexities of safeguarding in a global context.