Protocol Child Abuse (and domestic violence)

The aim of the Protocol is to facilitate professional help for children (or adults) when the dental staff suspect that abuse, neglect or violence may be present through raising awareness amongst dental professionals of child abuse neglect or violence.

The Protocol gives directions on how to act, including advice about recording of observations, and contact addresses for professional support. The Netherlands amended its legislation to introduce a protocol with regard to child abuse for health practitioners.

Although no exact results are available yet (evaluation is still on-going), the co-ordinated action to bring the topic of abuse, neglect, or violence to the attention of dental practitioners and auxiliary staff has raised awareness of the problem and given victims a pathway to seeking further professional care or assistance.