Preventing unjustified Veilig Thuis reports.

Preventing unjustified Veilig Thuis reports.

Schools still too often make an unjustified report to Veilig Thuis. By applying the newly developed framework for education correctly, this can be prevented. It clearly states the school's role in detecting and reporting child abuse and domestic violence.

At Ouders & Onderwijs we often talk to parents who face an unjustified Veilig Thuis report. For example, because they do not want their child to go to special education. Or due to a disagreement about the right educational place. Or if parents are in quarantine due to corona risk and do not send their child to school. With a threat of a Veilig Thuis report, schools or attendance officers then put pressure on these parents. This is unacceptable and a wrong use of this important protection tool for children. Together with, for example, the parent association Balans, we work hard to change this.

Framework

The framework contains guidelines and agreements that schools must meet at least. This includes the tasks and responsibilities of the school governing body, school leader, and other education staff when suspecting domestic violence or child abuse.

Reporting Code

The framework is part of the Reporting Code Domestic Violence and Child Abuse. This has been compulsory in all education since 2019. The code is there to quickly help students who face violence or abuse at home. Using five steps, education staff can decide whether to report to Veilig Thuis. This applies when the safety of family members is seriously threatened. The steps are:

• First step: identify signs of domestic violence or child abuse.
• Second step: consult a colleague and possibly contact Veilig Thuis.
• Third step: talk with the student and/or parents, depending on age and situation.
• Fourth step: weigh the domestic violence or child abuse; when in doubt always consult Veilig Thuis.
• Fifth step: decide based on the assessment framework.

Veilig Thuis Report

Step 3 of the reporting code is often not applied properly. This step says the professional talks to parents about concerns and the consideration to report to Veilig Thuis. Ouders & Onderwijs advises discussing concerns first to see if help is needed. Then decide if a Veilig Thuis report is necessary. A report often has a big impact on the family. Careful handling is important.

Share Your Story

Are you currently facing (or threatened by) an unjustified Veilig Thuis report? Please contact our information point for advice and to share your story. This helps us take further steps to prevent this. We are available by phone on weekdays from 09:30 to 12:30 and 13:00 to 16:00 at 088-6050101.