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NARRATOR: It’s never easy when a young person discloses abuse. There are probably 1,000 things going through your head. From trying to remember your organisation safeguarding procedure, to asking the right questions. Should you be
asking questions at all? But no matter how anxious you’re feeling, it’s worth remembering that most young people only choose to talk to someone they really trust, so chances are, you’re already doing something right. Whatever the
situation, here are a few simple things you can do to create a safe space for a better conversation. Help them open up. For some children, talking about abuse can be scary. You need to show them that you care and that you are listening
to what they say.
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This can be as simple as changing your body language and avoid anything that can make you seem distracted or distant.
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Keep your focus on them. They’re the most important thing right now.
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Slow down and take your time. This chat might only be a small part of the disclosure. They could just be testing the water, so let them go at their own pace. Even if the gaps in the conversation feel awkward to you, it’s their story.
Give them time to tell it. Reflect back and show you understand by simply going through what they’ve told you already. If possible, use their language. The specific words they use are an important part of their narrative, and although
it’s easy to jump to conclusions, or even solutions, right now, they just need to feel listened to. You can practise these techniques whenever someone’s telling you a story.
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Helping them to open up, slowing things down, and reflecting back in everyday conversations won’t just make you a better listener, but will also prepare you for when a disclosure does happen. It could change a young person’s life.
For a child, vulnerable adult or staff member to disclose that they do not feel safe is usually very difficult for them and so it is vital we respond in the right way.
Watch the video animation above that shows you how to respond when a child tells you about experiencing abuse and then reflect on the questions that follow.