Call for evidence on role of doctors in child protection

09 August 2010

DOCTORS are being asked to take part in a GMC consultation to develop new child protection guidance.

They are being invited to submit evidence of issues they may have encountered relating to doctors’ role in child protection. The council said it was looking for examples “of what works well and any problems or concerns”, to help it identify areas where GPs may benefit from additional guidance.

The GMC is also consulting healthcare professionals, social workers, police, lawyers, children, young people and their families and carers. The evidence will be used to shape new GMC guidance that is due out at the end of 2011.

Doctors have until Friday, September 24, 2010 to give their feedback on four main areas including:

• Consent and confidentiality
• Relationships with parents, carers and the wider family
• Doctors working in partnership with other professionals and agencies
• Doctors’ knowledge, skills and experience.

GMC chief executive Niall Dickson said: “We are keen for anyone who has been involved in child protection to share their views and experiences. We want to know what is and what is not working and how matters could be improved.”

It was announced last month that a working group had been set up to put together the child protection guidance. Rt Hon Lord Justice Thorpe, the deputy chair of the Family Justice Council and Lord Justice of Appeal, is chairing the 14-member group.

Read more about the GMC consultation here