Dealing with and reporting child protection concerns a snapshot of Irish primary schools

Abstract

The research reported in this paper aimed to capture the experiences of primaryschool teachers at a pivotal time in 2018, following the introduction of statutory obligations on primary schools in Ireland to comply with mandatory child protection reporting requirements. It is based on responses received from 387 designated liaison persons (DLPs) to an online survey emailed to all primary schools. Data were collected on categories of abuse dealt with by schools, and on DLP perceptions of teachers’ concerns regarding their new statutory role as “mandated persons” for child protection. Findings of the survey indicate that, in schools, neglect is the most frequently dealt with category of child abuse, followed by emotional abuse, physical abuse, and sexual abuse. DLPs revealed that teachers were most concerned about the implications of reporting for families and about inadequate training on child protection. The paper highlights the complexity for primary teachers of making judgements about child protection and draws attention to the potential for personal consequences that may arise due to their reporting responsibilities. Recommendations include provision of enhanced supports for teachers as mandated persons and a renewed focus on the development of a framework for inter-agency communication and co-operation.