Qualification: NCFE CACHE Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Educator
Unit: Unit 2.2: Understand legislation relating to the safeguarding, protection and welfare of children
Learning outcome: Understand policies and procedures for the safeguarding, protection and welfare of children
Assessment criteria: Explain the boundaries of confidentiality in relation to the safeguarding, protection and welfare of children
In general, a child’s personal information should be kept confidential; however, there may be circumstances in which it is appropriate to share information with other professionals and agencies.
These circumstances might include:
- if there are concerns about a child’s welfare
- if a crime has been committed against a child
- if a child discloses that they have been abused
It is important to always act in the best interests of the child and to consult with other professionals before sharing any information.
When sharing information with others, Early Years practitioners would usually need to obtain the consent of the child’s parents or carers. However, if there are concerns relating to the parents/carers, information may be shared without their consent. Further information about confidentiality can be found here.
Early Years settings should have robust policies and procedures relating to safeguarding and protecting children. This will include requirements such as practitioners treating children with dignity and respect and restricting personal tasks (such as nappy changing) to the child’s Key Person.