CYSCP

In cases where it's reported or believed that a child has experienced sexual abuse, the initial response from all practitioners should be to listen carefully to what the child says and to observe the child's behaviour and circumstances. Practitioners must:

• clarify the concerns
• offer reassurance about how the child will be kept safe
• explain what action will be taken and within what timeframe

The child must not be pressed for information, led or cross-examined or given false assurances of absolute confidentiality, as this could prejudice police investigations, especially in cases of sexual abuse.

In all cases, regardless of whether the abuse is recent or non-recent, consideration must always be given to whether or not the child requires a sexual abuse medical assessment. If the decision is that the medical assessment is not required, the rationale for this decision must be clearly documented. Expert professional advice regarding whether a medical assessment is indicated, can be obtained from the commissioned paediatric Child Sexual Assault Assessment Centre (CSAAS) or Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) provider, Mountain Healthcare on telephone: 0330 223 1154.

'Recent' abuse is that which has occurred between 0 and 13 days ago. On the other hand, 'non-recent' abuse which has occurred 14 or more days ago.

All Child Sexual Abuse (CSA) medicals are child centred and CSAAS or SARC staff will always follow the child’s lead by listening to the child’s verbal and nonverbal cues in order for them to remain comfortable and settled throughout their appointment. The CSAAS or SARC is welcoming, and child focused with work ongoing to further the aesthetics of the environment.

The patient is brought to SARC with an adult who holds parental responsibility. The social worker or police officer must also attend this appointment. All patients will be seen by a Forensic Nurse Examiner (FNE) and a Paediatric Crisis Worker. Within the appointment:

• a holistic assessment of the patient will be undertaken
• the patient will be examined for injuries
• forensic samples will be taken if required
• referrals will be made into external statutory organisations, healthcare and support services

Following a SARC appointment every patient and their family will receive a holistic follow-up 2 weeks post the appointment. The patient is referred into YorSexual Health for a baseline and follow-up Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) screening. Each case is then reviewed by our paediatric team and statement are written with appropriate peer review.