FOI request (FOIR-835123240)

Working with children

Requested Wed 06 May 2026
Responded Thu 21 May 2026

I am writing to make a request for information under the Freedom of Information Act 2000.

Please provide the following information regarding the handling of allegations made against individuals working with children:

Procedures and Decision-Making

- The policies and procedures followed when an allegation is received

- The criteria and thresholds for referring a case to LADO

- Guidance on how credibility and risk are assessed at the initial stage

- Procedures for deciding whether further action or investigation is required

Recording and Evidence Handling 

- Policies on recording allegations, including requirements for accuracy and evidence-based recording

- Guidance on documenting verbal reports, third-party information, and unverified claims

- Any standards for retaining or evidencing telephone calls and verbal discussions

Information Sharing and Confidentiality

- Policies governing the sharing of allegations with third parties (including employers, schools and agencies)

- Guidance on what information can be shared prior to an alleagation being substantiated 

- Safeguards in place to prevent unessasry or inappropriate disclosure

Communication with the Accused Individual

- Procedsure for informing indicuduals of allegations made against them 

- Guidance on enuring fairness and the right to respond

- Any requirement to update individuals on progress and outcomes

Case Management and Outcomes

- Prciedures for revieiwng and closing cases

- Criteria for determining outcomes (substantiated, unsubstantiated, unfounded, malicious)

- Guidance on recording final decsions and ensuring accuracy

Oversight and Accoutability

- Any internal audit, review, or quality assurance processes relating t allegation handling

- Procedures addressing complaints or concerns about how a case was handled 

Retention and Records

- Data retention policies for reords relating to allegations

- Guidance on the storage of both electronic and manual records

This request is for general procedural information only and does not seek personla data. 

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Response

Hastings Borough Council holds no information in respect of your request.

This area is dealt with by East Sussex County Council Children's Services, please visit their website for further information: www.eastsussex.gov.uk