The CSA Practice Leads conduct a biweekly Child Sexual Abuse Think Space on Thursday afternoons. This initiative allows Children’s Services practitioners to discuss cases involving children who may have experienced or disclosed sexual abuse. It serves as a reflective environment to address concerns, aid in using the CSA Pathway, examine direct work tools, direct families to appropriate services, and boost the confidence of less experienced practitioners.
Additionally, there is a Think Space focused on sibling sexual abuse, supported by the Stepping Stones, on Tuesday afternoons.
To refer, send an email to CSAPL@lbbd.gov.uk with details of the child or family you wish to discuss. A time will be arranged for you and your manager to attend. Sessions last up to an hour and can be conducted either face-to-face or online.
Think Space - Terms of Reference (PDF, 198.99 KB)
Working with children and families affected by CSA can be challenging and emotionally demanding. You may have questions or doubts about how to assess the risk and impact of CSA, how to engage the child and their family, how to access appropriate services and interventions, or how to manage your own feelings and wellbeing. The CSA Think Space can help you to:
”…Reflecting on the potential long-term impact of harm, even if not immediately visible, highlighted the need for proactive safety planning”
“The Think Space provides time for reflection, hypothesising, and most importantly thinking about the voice of the child”
“A safe space to reflect together”
“…a seamless approach to offering support to this young person which resulted in her feeling confident in seeking support which was heavily based on her consent and preference”
“…the practitioner is able to express their feelings and anxiety that may be encountered”