A child becomes the subject of a child protection plan if they are judged to be at continuing risk of harm at an initial child protection conference (ICPC) [1]. During 2023 over 74,000 ICPCs took place, with 50,780 children placed on protection plans [2]. The main aim of this project was to create a realistic simulated ICPC, to enable students to experience what it is like to attend a ICPC as they rarely get to do this in real life due to confidentiality and the sensitivity of the information shared. The project promoted collaboration with multiple different professionals from programmes across the University, including the School of Arts, Media and Creative Technologies, Police, Social Work, Nursing and Allied Health Professions. It has enabled a richer learning experience for all students in the School of Health and Society.
The design was developed from an existing case study of a simulated family embedded for teaching and learning in the Social Work degree programme. This case study was adapted to fit into a safeguarding case. Repurposing resources already created for a different programme saved time and reduced duplication of effort. Professionals were invited to participate to take on roles based on the requirements of the scenario. Professionals required prior experience of attending ICPCs. as they were not given a script and acted in role in response to the scenario content and information presented as they would in real-life practice.
Media students were hired from the University consisting of 2 film crew, a director, an editor, and a sound technician.
The immersive digital content has had a positive impact on the development and promotion of collaborative and interprofessional working. A short trailer of the immersive digital content will be showcased. The simulated ICPC is scheduled to be used for teaching and learning imminently and feedback will be sought from student learners and facilitators.
The benefits of this project have exceeded expectations. Professionals involved in the simulated ICPC were onboard from the start and enthusiastic about the creation of a shared resource, which will be beneficial to all. Having the same goal helped to progress the project. Everyone took their roles seriously and commented on how, during the simulation, they forgot it wasn’t a real case. A positive outcome from this project was the development of future projects and an opportunity to create working partnerships with other programmes that will continue long term.
Authors confirm that all relevant ethical standards for research conduct and dissemination have been met. The submitting author confirms that relevant ethical approval was granted, if applicable.
1. Gov.uk. Children in need [Online]. 2023. Available from: https://explore-education-statistics.service.gov.uk/find-statistics/characteristics-of-children-in-need#content.
2. Department for Education. Children in need census [Online]. 2023. [Available from: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/children-in-need-census.
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