Best practice for protecting LGBTQ+ children and young people
All children and young people have the right to be protected and kept safe from abuse and neglect.
LGBTQ+ children and young people face the same risks as all children and young people, but they are at greater risk of some types of abuse. For example, they might experience homophobic, biphobic or transphobic bullying or hate crime. They might also be more vulnerable to or at greater risk of sexual abuse, online abuse or sexual exploitation (Barnardo’s and Fox, 2016; McGeeney et al, 2017; Xu and Zheng, 2014).
The NSPCC provides clear guidance and best practice for safeguarding LGBTQ+ children and young people.
Link to NSPCC – This Includes Guidance On:
- Adversities faced by LGBTQ+ children and young people.
- Risk of harm for LGBTQ+ children and young people.
- Understanding intersectionality.
- Policies and procedures you should have in place.
- Best practice for supporting LGBTQ+ children and young people.
- Relevant legislation and guidance.
Supporting transgender children and young people
Oldham Children Safeguarding Partnership are committed to ensuring that children and young people (CYP) who identify as transgender receive the right support at the right time. To help professionals and partners provide consistent and informed guidance, we have compiled a range of resources available across Greater Manchester and nationally.
These resources include local support groups, mental health services, helplines, and specialist organisations that can assist CYP and their families. They cover areas such as emotional wellbeing, social support, domestic abuse, and inclusion in education and sport.
You can find the full list of resources, including links to local and national organisations, HERE
Please take time to review these resources and share them within your teams.
Together, we can ensure that every child and young person feels supported, understood, and safe.