This guide is designed for professionals who have raised concerns regarding child sexual abuse (CSA), but where statutory agencies—such as children’s social care, the Multi-Agency Child Protection Team (MACPT), or the police—have decided not to progress the referral. It provides actionable advice to ensure the child remains protected and supported even when the legal threshold for intervention is not met.
The context
When statutory agencies decide not to act, it is often because the information provided does not meet the legal standard for intervention or they act on other concerns. However, it is a common misconception that a decision of ‘no further action at this time’ means a child is safe or that abuse has not occurred.
- As the referrer, you should ask the agency for the specific rationale behind their decision and what it implies for the child's future safety.
- This clarity allows you to determine if concerns remain and what subsequent steps are necessary to support the family.
A decision of 'no further action' is rarely an indicator that the child is no longer at risk. It usually means the agencies do not have enough information to meet the legal standards to act at this time.
You can challenge a decision for ‘no further action at this time’ by providing additional information or using local safeguarding partnership escalation procedures.
Building trust is vital. Regularly check in with the child and ensure they know you are available to talk, rather than waiting for them to seek help.
Consider diversity and how the child’s personal characteristics might increase vulnerability and shape the response to child sexual abuse.
How might the child be feeling?
A child’s emotional state following an decision of ‘no further action at this time’ can be complex and depends heavily on their awareness of the referral.
- If the child expected help, a lack of action may leave them feeling disbelieved, angry, or distraught.
- Conversely, a child may not realise their experience constitutes abuse and may resent professional involvement.
- It is vital to explain that despite the decision, you remain concerned and available to support them.
How can professionals help the child?
There are many ways for you to help protect the child:
- Consider whether to challenge the decision. If you disagree with the outcome, you can provide further information or escalate the concern through local child safeguarding partnership procedures.
- Remain alert to the possible signs of sexual abuse. Use a structured approach, such as the Signs and indicators template, to build a picture of concerns over time, including observations of the family environment and potential people of concern.
- Take protective steps that are within your power, such as safety planning in education settings or limiting contact between the child and the person of concern, where harmful sexual behaviours (HSB) from a peer is identified.
There are many ways for you to help support the child:
- Ensure the child is informed of the outcome in a way they understand.
- Consider how to support their emotional and physical wellbeing, education, and relationships with family and friends.
- Consider what support you might need for yourself.