Child Protection Postgraduate Certificate

University of the West of Scotland

This module will support students to develop characteristics that enable critically thinking on their role and practice in undertaking assessments of children within a cultural aware context. It will enhance their capacity to make informed judgments in relation to the complex issues which arise in planning and implementing an assessment of a child?s needs and delivering appropriate interventions and resources to facilitate adequate safeguarding. The student will be work ready and have the ability to apply an innovative and transformational approach to the sustained development of collaborative work.

The module will provide a critical understanding of the concept of child protection by critically analysing definitions, terminology, research and conventions. Principal theories and concepts relating to the family in contemporary society and how they inform understanding of the phenomenon of child abuse will be critically examined. The impact of poverty and inequalities on child welfare will also be critically evaluated. The law relating to the protection of children will be critically explored in the context of key international conventions and the application of Scottish legislation in practice. The development of child protection policy in Scotland will be critically analysed focusing on key policy initiatives leading to and including Getting It Right for Every Child and the current Child Protection Improvement Programme. In this context students will critically reflect on their own professional roles and responsibilities.

The module will provide a critical knowledge and understanding of the current evidence base and principles which specifically relate to normal Child Development. Factors which may contribute to developmental delay and abnormal psychological development will be critically analysed. The complexities of familial and social factors will be critically analysed and evaluated in terms of their impact on children?s welfare and safety. This will include in-depth exploration of the impact of factors drawn from a multiplicity of topics such as problem substance use, domestic abuse, parental mental ill health, caring for children with special needs, child sexual abuse, children with complex needs, child trafficking, sexual exploitation, travelling and immigrant families, looked after children and children with mental health problems.