The recipients are the Child Safeguarding Manager and the Child Safeguarding Officer(s).
The Child Safeguarding team will analyze and investigate the matter, and will decide whether the complaint is going to:
- be dealt with in accordance with the internal child safeguarding procedure (taking relevant action and monitor the evolution locally).
- should reach the authorities, in which case the organization will submit an official referral (to the Social Care Services or the Police) and follow-up on the evolution of the circumstances.
After receiving a complaint, both the Child Safeguarding Director and the Child Safeguarding Officer will decide whether the Child Safeguarding Policy requires updating.
In deciding the course of action, the child’s best interest is paramount. Records of complaints/reports are well kept within the organization. Reports are treated with confidentiality.
The subject of the complaint and all witnesses must cooperate fully and openly during internal investigations and hearings.
The internal investigations related to allegations of criminal behavior are to be discussed with formal authorities.