NSPCC child protection campaign gathers momentum

Organisations including YWCA and School Home Support have signed up to the Staying Safe Commitment scheme, which has just marked its second anniversary.

It was created for organisations in the voluntary, community and commercial sectors in England and Wales to help devise child protection policies and procedures. This includes appointing a staff member to take on responsibility for this area, draw up a safeguarding action plan if needed and review current plans. They must also ensure they have public liability insurance with no exclusions for child abuse before getting the NSPCC's seal of approval.

Fiona Becker, senior consultant from the NSPCC's quality and development service, said: "It's been hugely encouraging to see the variety of organisations that are willing to take these important first steps towards keeping children safe. This demonstrates how seriously they are taking the issue."