6.3 What is a disclosure?
When a child or adult tells someone else about an incident, or someone who has abused them, this is called a
Children are more likely to disclose to someone they know and trust – for example, a parent, a coach, a medic, a friend, or the Safeguarding Lead at their sports club. It is important that you are clear on some disclosure ‘dos’ and ‘don’ts’ in case you are the person they turn to, so you know how best to manage these situations.
Guidance on responding to a disclosure
Take a moment to think how you should react if someone tells you about abuse.
Make a list of the dos and don’ts – for example, do remain calm.
The most important thing is to provide an environment where the child feels safer disclosing than keeping the secret. Remember, a child is showing huge trust in the person they choose to tell. Asking some questions to clarify what the child is saying is ok, but it is not your responsibility to interview the child. This is the role of trained experts or the police.
Taking notes is also ok – as long as it does not affect what the child is saying, and you have explained why it is important to write down what they are telling you.
Afterwards, it is important to write as much as possible about the child’s comments (using as much of the child’s language and description as possible) and the circumstances of the disclosure. This information will support any subsequent investigation and action.
Sometimes this could be the only time a child talks to anyone about their experiences – so having an accurate record of the conversation is vital.
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Experience shows that direct disclosures by children are relatively rare – usually you become aware of concerns in less direct ways. |
Now let’s look at why children may never tell anyone directly.
6.2 Becoming aware of safeguarding concerns
