RCGP Safeguarding toolkit

Part 2A: Identification of abuse and neglect

There are a number of issues to consider in this age group:

Young people who are 16 and 17 years old have significant potential to fall through the gaps between child and adult services.
They are still legally children and should be given the same protection and entitlements as any other child.
The fact that a child has reached 16 years of age, is living independently or is in further education, is a member of the armed forces, is in hospital or in custody in the secure estate, does not change their status or entitlements to services or protection. In Scotland, the definition of a child varies in different legal contexts. Where a young person between the age of 16 and 18 requires support and protection, services will need to consider which legal framework best fits each persons’ needs and circumstances.
Mental capacity legislation in all UK nations applies from 16 years old.
Professionals have to balance the rights of young people with their duty to protect them from abuse and neglect.
No child can ever consent to their own abuse.
Consider transitional safeguarding.
Actively prepare, plan and advocate for transition into adulthood including into adult services.