There may be up to 3 strands in the consideration of an allegation:
- a police investigation of a criminal offence;
- assessment by Children’s Social Care about whether a child is in need of protection or services;
- consideration by an employer of disciplinary action in respect of the individual.
Some cases will also need to be referred to the Independent Safeguarding Authority for consideration of inclusion of the individual on the ISA barred lists.
An investigation must:-
- take all allegations against a professional, staff member, foster carer or volunteer seriously;
- be conducted in a way that is consistent with statute and guidance, and the Pan Cheshire Multi Agency Safeguarding Procedures;
- be concerned with all affected children regardless of their living environment;
- be independent of the immediate line management of those against whom allegations have been made;
- be completed in a timely manner consistent with a thorough and fair investigation.
