Safeguarding disabled children

Author: Ruth Marchant, co-director, Triangle BIOG and updated by Triangle

Last Updated: 29 July 2011

Publication Date: 16 June 2008

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Safeguarding disabled children

Disabled children face an increased risk of abuse, yet are under represented in our safeguarding systems. This paradox contributes to their increased vulnerability, and can make social work role more challenging.

This reference manual covers safeguarding issues for disabled children and brings together research, legislation and guidance within a clear value base. It is relevant for social workers who specialise with disabled children (in field or residential work), for social workers involved in investigations and those in duty and assessment teams. Separate reference manuals cover communication skills, looked-after disabled children and the strategies for involving disabled children in the reviewing process.

Given the context of increased risk and reduced access to protection, a disabled child’s welfare and safety must be actively considered in all social work involvement.