Written question asked by Nigel Evans (Conservative) on Tuesday, 1 December 2009, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 7 December 2009. It was answered by Baroness Primarolo (Labour) on Monday, 7 December 2009 on behalf of the Department for Children, Schools and Families.

Pupils: Abuse

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families what guidelines his Department provides to teachers who suspect abuse or maltreatment of a pupil on action to be taken in such circumstances.

Answer: Guidelines on the actions that anyone, including a teacher, should take if they have concerns about abuse or maltreatment of a child are set out in "What to do if you are Worried a Child is being Abused." This practice guidance tells people about the procedures to follow when passing on concerns and what will then happen. Guidance on the wider responsibilities of local authorities and governing bodies of schools and FE colleges in relation to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children is contained in "Safeguarding Children and Safer Recruitment in Education."

Secondary information