Today I have a post from Kira about the importance of safeguarding children. From my time working in nurseries and primary schools I know how important this subject is!
Child protection – also known as ‘safeguarding’ – is a key element of many professional roles, reflecting the increased awareness of the need to protect the youngest and most vulnerable members of society from abuse. An understanding of the responsibilities involved in safeguarding children is not simply restricted to those working in dedicated child protection jobs; in fact, many broad areas of work, including education, medicine and law enforcement, have a significant element of safeguarding incorporated in their job descriptions.
While working in child protection is incredibly rewarding, the positive moments are sometimes diluted by the stresses that naturally come with the role. Taking some simple steps can help you switch off at night and maintain your determination:
Remind yourself that you’re passionate about safeguarding
If you don’t have determination and drive to succeed in child protection, the chances are you’ll be unable to perform your duties effectively. The positives – knowing that you’ve taken decisive action to protect a child from harm – are moments that you’ll relish and will inspire you to continue your work, even at times when you’re feeling under pressure.
Remember you are only human
The nature of child protection work is bound to affect your emotions from time-to-time, so having a plan of action for how to manage them is vital to enable you to switch off when you head home. Recognising when your emotions are on a rollercoaster ride is an important starting point; knowing who to speak to is also necessary. Above all, don’t attempt to bury your head in the sand and pretend your own feelings don’t matter – they do.
Don’t attempt to go it alone
Your degree course will have been largely theoretical in nature with many hours spent laboriously in the lecture theatre or university library, so the realities of the day-to-day job may, at first, be a little alarming. With the workload often heavy, it’s easy to feel swamped and the need to make on-the-spot decisions could test your reasoning skills to the limit. Seek advice and support from more experienced colleagues, if only to ratify your decisions, and you’ll grow in confidence by the day.
Plan your professional development
Additional training will help to improve your skills in your child protection work, so identify your learning goals and don’t be afraid to ask for more support. By recognising your needs as a professional, not only will you be able to take control of your development, but you’ll also gain in confidence as a whole as you will be reassured that the weaker aspects of your practice are being addressed.
Balancing the rewards and strains of a job in child protection is important if you are to work effectively in your role. Recognising that, as a newly-qualified professional, you are not the finished article is not a sign of weakness and will help you to call upon the support, advice and help that you most need, when you need it.
