How to Respond When a Child Discloses Abuse: The Complete Protocol for Staff
What you say in the first few minutes of a disclosure can determine whether a child ever speaks again. This guide covers exactly what to do, what to never say, how to record it correctly, and when to refer — aligned with KCSIE 2025 and Working Together 2023.
Photo: The Safeguard Hub — DSL safeguarding protocol
⚠ If a child is in immediate danger, call 999 first. Do not allow concerns about process to delay emergency action.
Why the First Response Matters So Much
Research from the NSPCC shows that children who experience a poor initial response to disclosure are significantly less likely to repeat it — even if the abuse continues.[1] Many adults panic, ask leading questions, or promise confidentiality they cannot keep. Understanding exactly what to do before it happens is one of the most important things any school employee can do.
What to Say — and What Never to Say
| ✓ DO say this | ✗ NEVER say this |
|---|---|
| "Thank you for telling me. You were right to come to me." | "Are you sure? That doesn't sound right." |
| "I believe you." | "Why didn't you tell someone sooner?" |
| "This is not your fault." | "I promise I won't tell anyone." |
| "I need to make sure you're safe, so I'll need to talk to [DSL name]." | "Have you told your mum/dad?" |
| "Is it OK if I write down what you've told me?" | "Who else knows about this?" |
The 4 Rules of Receiving a Disclosure
1. Listen — don't investigate
Your role is to receive information, not gather evidence. Ask only open, non-leading questions: "Is there anything else you want to tell me?" Never ask "who, why, where" questions — this risks contaminating a potential ABE (Achieving Best Evidence) interview.
2. Do not promise confidentiality
You must be honest: "I will need to share what you've told me with the people responsible for keeping you safe." Be clear about who that is (the DSL), but reassure them that not everyone will be told.
3. Record verbatim — immediately
Write down what the child said using their exact words, in the first person, as soon as you are able. Note the time, date, location, and any other adults present. Do not paraphrase or interpret.
4. Refer to your DSL the same day
Under KCSIE 2025, all disclosures must be reported to the DSL without delay. If the DSL is unavailable, report to the deputy DSL. If you believe a child is in immediate danger, call 999 without waiting for DSL contact.
When a Child Discloses About a Parent or Carer
This is one of the most emotionally complex scenarios. The child may be terrified of family separation. Key principles: do not contact the parent before speaking to the DSL (this could put the child in danger); tell the child you will do your best to keep them informed; focus on their immediate safety. The DSL must follow local authority thresholds and consider whether a Section 47 enquiry is needed.
For Parents: If Your Child Discloses at Home
Stay calm — your reaction sets the tone. Thank them for telling you. Tell them it is not their fault. Do not question or investigate further. Contact the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000 or call 101 to speak to your local police safeguarding team. If in immediate danger, call 999.
Citations
[1] NSPCC (2022). How Safe Are Our Children? 2022 Report. NSPCC.
[2] DfE (2025). Keeping Children Safe in Education 2025, Part 1. DfE.
[3] HM Government (2023). Working Together to Safeguard Children 2023. DfE.
[4] NSPCC (2023). Responding to Child Abuse Disclosures: What Professionals Need to Know. NSPCC Learning.