Notice of Motion Submitted by Councillor Keith
To consider the following Motion submitted by Councillor Keith:
“This Council:
(1) welcomes the relaunch by the NSPCC of the Underwear Rule campaign which provides parents and professionals with an easy way to start simple conversations with children that could help keep them safe from sexual abuse;
(2) believes that everyone has a role to play to help prevent the sexual abuse of children and that all children have the right to be happy and safe;
(3) to this end, the Council will do its utmost to support the campaign both across Council staff, Children's centres and foster carers; and
(4) will encourage all Sefton Primary Schools to take up the NSPCC Child Line training for primary school children. This training includes the key message that children's bodies belong to them and no one can touch it without their permission. Children have the right to refuse a kiss or a touch, even from a person they love. No one should touch them on the part of their body that their swimwear or underwear covers. The schools service programme creates a safe space for children and staff to discuss their understanding of what can be complex and embarrassing issues;
The Council will endeavour to share these key messages with parents, carers and agencies that work with children.”
Minutes:
It was moved by Councillor Keith, seconded by Councillor Hands and unanimously RESOLVED:
That the following Motion be referred to the Overview and Scrutiny Committee (Children’s Services) for consideration, prior to the submission of a recommendation to the Cabinet Member – Children, Schools, Families and Leisure for determination:
“That this Council:
(1) welcomes the relaunch by the NSPCC of the Underwear Rule campaign which provides parents and professionals with an easy way to start simple conversations with children that could help keep them safe from sexual abuse;
(2) believes that everyone has a role to play to help prevent the sexual abuse of children and that all children have the right to be happy and safe;
(3) to this end, the Council will do its utmost to support the campaign both across Council staff, Children's centres and foster carers; and
(4) will encourage all Sefton Primary Schools to take up the NSPCC Child Line training for primary school children. This training includes the key message that children's bodies belong to them and no one can touch it without their permission. Children have the right to refuse a kiss or a touch, even from a person they love. No one should touch them on the part of their body that their swimwear or underwear covers. The schools service programme creates a safe space for children and staff to discuss their understanding of what can be complex and embarrassing issues;
The Council will endeavour to share these key messages with parents, carers and agencies that work with children.”