What to expect at the safeguarding support unit for children 0 to 9 years

Coming to the SSU

Children come to the safeguarding support unit (SSU) when there are worries they have been hurt in some way. All children are looked at by a children’s doctor (a paediatrician).

When you arrive you will come to our waiting room. There are toys and games to play with, and you can have something to eat and drink if you are hungry.

Photograph of door to safeguarding support unit

What happens next

The doctor will usually talk to the social worker if they are here. Then the doctor will talk to the grown up who came with you. The doctor will also want to talk to you. A nurse will stay and play with you. This is the room where you will talk to the doctor.

Photograph of consultation examination room

Children often feel nervous when they visit. All staff at the SSU will do their best to make sure you feel looked after. If you are worried or upset, it is okay to tell someone.

We have special sheets which will help you tell us how you are feeling. The doctor and the nurse will be able to help you fill one in.

The doctor will need to look at your body to make sure you are okay. Your grown up who came with you can stay with you. The nurse who played with you will also stay with you. The doctor may need to take photos.

After you have been checked over you will have to wait a little while longer in the waiting area, whilst adults talk.

Photograph of safeguarding room

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Disclaimer

Please note: this is a generic information sheet relating to care at Sheffield Children’s NHS FT. These details may not reflect treatment at other hospitals. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professionals’ instructions. If this resource relates to medicines, please read it alongside the medicine manufacturer’s patient information leaflet. If this information has been translated into another language from English, efforts have been made to maintain accuracy, but there may still be some translation errors. If you are unsure about any of the guidance in this resource or have specific questions about how it relates to your child, always ask your healthcare professional for further advice.

Safeguarding Children, parents and carers Before a procedure Service information Article

Resource number: SFG8

Resource Type: Article

What to expect at the safeguarding support unit for children 0 to 9 years

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