This page provides information for parents, carers, families, volunteers and professionals who want to understand safeguarding, get guidance and know where to go for advice or support.

Safeguarding means protecting children and young people from abuse, neglect, exploitation and harm. It also means promoting their health, wellbeing and development so they can grow up safe, healthy and supported.

Everyone has a role to play in safeguarding children and young people.

The PHA works with partners across Northern Ireland to:

• promote the health and wellbeing of children and young people
• promote the rights of children and young people in keeping with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child;
• support prevention and early intervention approaches and strategies that support children, young people and their families;
• develop safeguarding guidance and resources
• support health professionals through education and regional standards
• contribute to multi-agency safeguarding arrangements
• seek the views of children and young people and giving these serious consideration when developing and reviewing services;
• promote public awareness of the need to safeguard children;
• recognise and respond to child care concerns in keeping with Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland Procedures Manual and procedures using the appropriate Gateway Service Teams contact details | nidirect;
• cooperate with the Strategic Planning and Performance Team (SPPG), HSC Trusts and other agencies to promote safe and effective services for children and families, and monitor progress against agreed strategies and action plans.
• Further information can be found in the Safeguarding Children and Young People Policy, Guidance for PHA staff.