Norfolk Safeguarding Partnership - Child Sexual Abuse (CSA) Training –

Over the past three years, we have been proud to work in partnership with the Norfolk Safeguarding Partnership, delivering a series of high-quality, evidence-based training programmes for professionals who play a crucial role in protecting children and supporting families.

As part of this ongoing collaboration, we recently delivered specialist Child Sexual Abuse (CSA) training, aimed at strengthening professional understanding, confidence, and practical skills when working with children and families where CSA is known or suspected.

Training Focus

The CSA training was carefully designed to combine current research, professional expertise, and reflective learning. It provided participants with a safe and supportive environment to deepen their understanding and apply learning to practice.

Key areas explored included:

• How child sexual abuse is viewed within society and within family contexts
• The dynamics and risks of CSA, including harmful sexual behaviour by children
• The impact of trauma on children’s development, relationships, and behaviour
• Recognising and responding sensitively to disclosures
• Assessing risk and planning for safety, including the use of the Signs of Safety framework
• Understanding family dynamics and vulnerabilities when CSA becomes known

Outcomes

By the end of the course, participants reported increased confidence, empathy, and clarity in responding to CSA concerns. The training supported professionals to:

• Recognise the complex and often hidden nature of CSA
• Respond sensitively and effectively to disclosures
• Work collaboratively across agencies to plan for safety and recovery
• Apply trauma-informed and strengths-based approaches to practice

Impact

Feedback from practitioners highlighted the value of the training’s practical focus, expert facilitation, and real-world application. Participants particularly appreciated the balance between challenge, reflection, and skill-building.

This work has contributed to Norfolk’s continued commitment to strengthening professional practice and ensuring children who have experienced sexual abuse receive the support and protection they need.