Behaviour
Understand the Links Between Abuse and Mental Health
Know when a worry about a pupil's mental health is also a safeguarding concern, and exactly who to tell.
- 14 minutes
- 8 modules
- 0.5 CPD hours
- Certificate
Members
14 days free, then £70 a year or £7 a month.
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What you'll learn
- Recognise when a mental health concern may point to abuse or neglect
- Spot emotional and behavioural signs, from withdrawal to over-compliance
- Explain how the trio of vulnerabilities puts some children at greater risk
- Take a concern straight to your DSL, and know where your mental health lead fits
About this course
Most children who struggle with their mental health aren't being abused. Some are, though, and a child who has gone quiet and withdrawn, become clingy with every adult, or started behaving perfectly to avoid any disapproval may be showing you the only sign you'll get.
Reading those signs well starts with knowing what Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) asks of all staff. You'll also learn why the "trio of vulnerabilities" keeps appearing in serious case reviews: domestic abuse, a parent's substance misuse and a parent's mental ill health.
Then there's what to do. If a mental health concern is also a safeguarding one, it goes to your designated safeguarding lead without delay. Your mental health lead can help too, but they don't replace that report.
- For governors, middle leaders and 4 other roles. All phases.
8 modules
Open in order
- 2 min
Introduction
- 2 min
What do we mean by abuse?
- 2 min
What does the guidance say?
- 4 min
How does mental health link to vulnerability?
1 question
- 2 min
Is mental health a safeguarding issue?
1 question
- 2 min
What should I look out for?
1 question
- 2 min
What should you do if you are concerned about a child’s mental health?
1 question
- 2 min
Wrap up