Voluntary & Community Services
Voluntary, community and faith groups play an important role within the community by providing services and support to children and their families. As well as faith organisations, are often the first point of contact for local families, children and young people needing help and support. The voluntary sector, therefore, is extremely well-placed to make early assessments of need, make early interventions and undertake preventative work. Voluntary organisations are also able to play an advocacy role, enabling and supporting families and children to access and understand statutory services.
They have a duty to ensure that they are able to keep children safe and that the governance structures are in place in their organisations to ensure this happen.
Hounslow Voluntary Sector Guidance
This guidance document has been produced by Hounslow Voluntary Sector Support Service (HVSSS) on behalf of the Hounslow Safeguarding Children Board (HSCB).
To download your own copy of the guidance please visit Hounslow Hub website. By having the Book online, we can ensure that you are always able to access the most recent version, reflecting changes in national guidance or legislation.
For further information on Hounslow Children’s Social Care threshold guidance, please visit the Guidance & Protocols page
How to use this guidance?
The Book aims to inform the day-to-day work of staff or volunteers who are in direct contact with children, young people, or families.
All groups within the voluntary and community and faith sectors should have a Nominated Safeguarding Person (NSP). Nominated Safeguarding Persons (NSPs), Deputy Nominated Safeguarding Persons, trustees and senior managers are advised to read through the document and explore resources and contacts referenced in the Book.
The voluntary sector is represented on the HSCP by a representative from the Hounslow Community Voluntary Service (HCVS). HCVS provide information, advice and support to local voluntary and community organisations.