Treatment of Minors Policy

Background

Therapists at the clinic are informed of their legal and ethical responsibilities in relation to working with minors, and can apply this knowledge in accordance with the policy.

Child protection is covered under legislation in England under the responsibility of the Department of Education. As a therapist there is no requirement for them to obtain a Police check to work with Minors as a parent or guardian over the age of 18years must be present at all times. However, it is the responsibility of the therapist to be aware of Englands Child protection legislation (Children Act 1989, Children Act 2004 & Children & socail Act 2017). 

As a therapist of the clinic it is mandatory to report suspected cases of child abuse or neglect to government authorities. 

Working with Minors

IH Soft Tissue Therapy requires therapists to have a parent or legal guardian present at all times during the treatment of any persons under the age of 18years. 

When treating a minor the therapist is required to comply with all local authority guidelines and goverment Legislation relating to child protection and reporting and working with children. The therapist should seek informed consent for the treatment from a parent or legal guardian over the age of 18years as well as the minor. 

Throughout the treatment the therapist should NEVER be left unsupervised with a minor. 

Therapists should be mindful minors are people too and should involve them in the decision-making for their treatments as much as possible. The therapist should respect the boundaries as children may feel uncomfortable about elements of the treatment such as removing clothing. Therapists should look out for particular signs of discomfort and adjust treatments to the needs of each client. 

Once a minor has reached the legal adult age, 18years or over, the informed consent obtained from their parent or legal guardian should be reviewed and provided by them themselves.