A child is defined as anyone who has not yet reached their 18th birthday. The fact that a child who has reached 16 years of age and is living independently (or in further education, is a member of the armed forces, is in hospital or in custody in the secure estate for children and young people) does not change his or her status or entitlement to services or protection, (Working Together to Safeguard Children 2018). The word ‘child’ therefore includes ‘children and young people’ under the age of 18 years.
Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children is defined as:
- Protecting children from maltreatment.
- Preventing impairment of children’s health or development.
- Ensuring that children are growing up in circumstances consistent with the provision of safe and effective care.
- Taking action to enable all children to have the best outcomes.
(Working Together to Safeguard Children 2018).
North Staffordshire Combined Healthcare NHS Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children who come into contact with our services, whether as patients, the children of patients, the children of relatives or other close contacts of patients.
Further information is available from the Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Safeguarding Children Board websites: