What is sexual assault?
Sexual abuse can happen to anyone; it is an act that a person does not give consent to. Children as young as babies can be subject to sexual abuse, therefore everyone who works in early years setting should be fully aware of the signs and symptoms. Sometimes suffers from sexual abuse do not show physical injuries. Attending regular safeguarding training is important to ensure practitioner knowledge is current.
It is essential that anyone coming into contact with children attend regular safeguarding training to ensure they keep up to date with current changes to legislation.
It is often the case that sexual abuse is carried out by someone known to the victim. Sexual abuse with often either take place in the family home or the alleged perpetrators. Children will not understand that what is happening to them is wrong and will often go on believing this is the norm.
When the time is right children will sometimes make a disclosure to an adult, it is the adult’s responsibility to follow the correct procedure in reporting this.
Signs and Symptoms of Sexual Abuse
- Children may be reluctant to be alone with someone
- Children may display signs of being afraid of someone
- Children may show inappropriate behaviour for their age
- Use sexual language
- Have physical symptoms such as anal or vaginal soreness
- Children may be withdrawn
- Act out scenes during role play situations
Why not watch this brand new animation showing simple steps we can all take to make children safer.
