If you work with deaf or disabled children, you’ll find training resources and information on this page.
The Government has guidance called Aiming High for Disabled Children (AHDC). Deaf and disabled children have the same right to be protected from abuse as all children so your policies and practice need to ensure they aim for this outcome.
Research and evidence suggests that deaf and disabled children are more likely to be abused than non-disabled children, but deaf and disabled children are particularly vulnerable to abuse because they’re:
- not offered the same protection as non-disabled children
- often treated as different, and less likely to receive adequate sex education or information about their own bodies
- generally more isolated, both physically and socially and also from mainstream facilities and services
- less likely to have people who they can communicate with
- dependent on others for their most important needs, such as feeding, taking medication or their intimate care needs.
If you work with deaf or disabled children you should get training on how to keep deaf or disabled children safe.
Your Local Safeguarding Children Board (LSCB) can provide advice, support and local knowledge which your organisation can access.
Practical approaches to valuing diversity and safeguarding children
A two-day National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) training course for practitioners and managers.
Communicating with children
A one-day NSPCC training course for practitioners.
Safeguarding disabled children
A two-day NSPCC training course for professionals working with disabled children.
The ABCD Pack: abuse and children who are disabled
NSPCC. A training and resource pack for trainers in child protection and disability.
Two way street
NSPCC. A DVD pack to improve communication skills.
Help... my disabled child needs to be safe (PDF)
CCPAS. Helping parents to teach their children with disabilities personal safety skills.
Safe: personal safety skills for deaf children
NSPCC. A group work programme on DVD.
Other sources of information
Ann Craft Trust
Respond
Triangle Services
Voice UK
National Deaf Children's Society (NDCS)