Escalation & Resolution Policy
This Escalation and Resolution Policy is designed to keep our focus entirely on the safety and well-being of the child. When different organisations or professionals disagree on a safeguarding decision, we need a clear, structured way to resolve those differences quickly and constructively.
The goal is to encourage a healthy culture of professional challenge, ensuring that no dispute gets in the way of protecting a child.
Core Safeguarding Principles
When navigating a disagreement, keep these five pillars in mind:
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The child's safety is the priority: Disputes must never leave a child at risk. Act quickly and keep the focus on making the child safer.
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Be critically reflective: Respect that different professions have different perspectives, theories, and approaches. Be open to shared reflective discussions.
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Take a restorative approach: Keep conversations respectful and value relationships. Listen carefully to make sure everyone's voice is heard.
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Value relationships and dialogue: Prioritise direct, active communication over emails, especially during handovers or transitions.
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Value professional curiosity: Ask questions and avoid jumping to assumptions. Be open to having your own decisions challenged constructively.
The 5-Stage Escalation Process
This process covers both informal and formal steps. Each stage should be completed within seven working days.
1
Stage 1: Frontline Practitioner Discussion
Informal (up to 7 working days)
The professionals directly involved should discuss the matter. Many differences can be resolved here through direct, professional dialogue.
2
Stage 2: Frontline Manager Discussion
Informal (up to 7 working days)
If you cannot reach an agreement at Stage 1, escalate the issue to your line manager. The managers from both agencies should contact each other to try to negotiate a resolution.
3
Stage 3: Designated Safeguarding Lead or Operational Manager
Formal (up to 7 working days)
If managers cannot resolve the issue, it moves to the formal stage. Pass the details to your agency's designated safeguarding lead or operational manager. At this stage, you must submit a CSCP Escalation Form⭧ and record all discussions in writing. A multi-agency reflective group consultation can also be requested here.
4
Stage 4: Senior Manager or Director
Formal (up to 7 working days)
If the issue remains unresolved, it is referred to named senior managers or directors within the involved agencies to negotiate a final resolution.
5
Stage 5: CSCP Dispute Resolution Meeting
Formal (up to 7 working days)
As a final step, the dispute is referred to the CSCP Dispute Resolution Meeting (led by statutory partners and the CSCP Independent Scrutineer) to make a definitive decision in the best interest of the child.
Important Reminders for All Staff
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No child should be left at risk: If a child is in immediate danger, do not wait for the escalation stages. Take immediate protective action.
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Keep tight records: Write everything down. All discussions, disagreements, and agreed outcomes must be logged on the child's case file within your agency's system.
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Use the right forms: Remember to submit the CSCP Escalation Notification Form at Stages 3, 4, and 5. This helps the partnership spot recurring themes and improve overall practice.
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Whistleblowing: If you feel unable to raise your concerns through these standard routes, or if your concerns are ignored, refer to your organisation's whistleblowing policy. You can also contact the CSCP Independent Scrutineer directly.
Supporting Documents for Safeguarding
The following resources are designed to help professionals manage and resolve safeguarding concerns, always keeping the child’s welfare as the top priority. If you have any questions or need further assistance email cscp@croydon.gov.uk
Document | Description | |
|---|---|---|
CSCP Escalation Form | A form to be used at Stages 3, 4, and 5 of the escalation process. | Download form |
Escalation stages (flowchart) | A visual guide to navigate the escalation process effectively. | Download Flowchart |
Case of Concern form | Use this form to report near-miss safeguarding cases with serious practice issues. This form should not be used for case escalation. | Download form |