Conflicts of interests, gifts, rewards and favouritism
The giving of a gift to an individual child or young person should be part of an agreed plan, recorded and discussed with a senior manager and the parent or carer.
Adults should exercise care when selecting children and young people for specific activities or privileges to avoid the perception of favouritism or unfairness. Methods and criteria for selection should always be transparent and subject to scrutiny. Care should also be taken to ensure that adults do not accept a gift that might be construed as a bribe by others, or lead the giver to expect preferential treatment.
Infatuations
Occasionally a child or young person may develop an infatuation with an adult who works with them. These adults should deal with these situations sensitively and appropriately to maintain the dignity and safety of all concerned. They should remain aware that such infatuations carry a high risk of words or actions being misinterpreted. They should make every effort to ensure that their own behaviour is above reproach.
This means that chaperones should:
- report and record any incidents or indications that suggest a child or young person may have developed an infatuation with an adult in the workplace
- always acknowledge and maintain professional boundaries when working with children and young people