“You just know something’s not right” – what makes primary healthcare professionals suspect child abuse? A qualitative study

Abstract

The number of children on child protection registers in England increased by 96% from 2002 to 2016, with neglect remaining the most common reason [1]. However, child abuse is still underreported and underdiagnosed, and several factors have been cited for this, including a lack of education and confidence in child protection services and a fear of false accusations [2,3]. There is little research on what triggers reporting and even less on the experiences of primary healthcare professionals in these situations.

Recognition of risk and prevention in safeguarding of children and young people: a mapping review and component analysis of service development interventions aimed at health and social care professionals

“…Only two studies reported other initiatives [40,41]. One qualitative study explored reporting of possible abuse by primary healthcare professionals [40].…”

“…Only two studies reported other initiatives [40,41]. One qualitative study explored reporting of possible abuse by primary healthcare professionals [40]. The other study looked at how cases of child neglect are managed over time and concluded that a new approach is needed, involving collection of evidence that could be used in care proceedings if necessary [41].…”

Recognition of risk and prevention in safeguarding of children and young people: a mapping review and component analysis of interventions aimed at health and social care professionals

“…of safeguarding by better use of data (five papers). Just two initiatives were identified outside these three broad categories 98,99 ; see below under 'other initiatives'.…”

“…Only two studies reported on other initiatives 98,99 . One was a qualitative study of reporting of possible abuse by primary healthcare professionals 98 .…”

“…Only two studies reported on other initiatives 98,99 . One was a qualitative study of reporting of possible abuse by primary healthcare professionals 98 . The other looked at how cases of child neglect are managed over time and concluded that a new approach is needed, involving collection of evidence that could be used in care proceedings if necessary 99 .…”