Advice on child protection

Help with suspected cases

What is child protection counseling according to §§ 8a/8b SGB VIII?

If you are professionally involved with children or young people and notice indications of possible danger, you are not alone. In Bochum, there is a specialized counselling service for such situations - anonymous, free and professional.

Who can get advice?

The advice is aimed at:

• Youth welfare professionals

• Professional confidants such as teachers, doctors and therapists

• People with professional contact with children and young people

• Volunteers in child and youth work

What does the consultancy offer in concrete terms?

• Anonymous case counseling by "insofar experienced professionals" (InsoFas)

• No notification to the youth welfare office - the consultation serves to assess the case, not to take it over

• Support in the decision-making process: What should be done? What help is available?

• Goal: Gain confidence and react appropriately

• Free of charge and flexible - by phone or in person

Why is advice important?

The assessment of a risk to a child's welfare is often complex. The professionals involved usually know the families best and are the first point of contact. However, uncertainty about the assessment or how to proceed is normal. Counseling helps to overcome this uncertainty - professionally sound and confidential.

Child protection in Bochum schools

All schools in Bochum have a cooperation agreement with the youth welfare office. This regulates the joint procedure in suspected cases and provides helpful materials:

Further information on the Advice on child protection issues as well as materials and documents can be found on the website of the Youth Welfare Office.