What is the purpose of a safety plan in child protection cases?

The purpose of a safety plan in child protection cases is to outline measures for a child's safety during investigations. A safety plan is a proactive strategy that helps ensure the well-being of a child when there is concern about their safety due to potential abuse or neglect. It involves identifying specific actions to be taken to keep the child safe, while the situation is assessed or during ongoing investigations. This plan often includes provisions such as placement with a relative, monitoring by social services, or other protective measures that ensure that the child's immediate needs are met.

In the context of child protection, the priority is always the child's safety and well-being. By focusing on safety measures, stakeholders, including child protection services, caregivers, and sometimes law enforcement, can work collaboratively to mitigate risks and provide a secure environment for the child.