Warner Interviewing

Course Overview
The abuse cases that have come to light clearly demonstrate that when determining the necessary elements of a vetting, screening and selection process for any position, be it for frontline or ancillary staff, a volunteer or student, the widest possible consideration should be given to the potential risks to children.

Choosing with Care is the report presented by Norman Warner and his team in 1992 after child abuse issues in Local Authority care homes, highlights the need for an informal preliminary interview to find out a fuller picture of the individuals character and attitudes.

The key message of the report is the importance of a multi-layered recruitment process, extending

beyond skills-focused interviews and CRB checks. Warner interviews require recruiters to probe candidates about their personal life, attitudes and motivations, in order to establish a fuller picture of the character of the applicant and especially their suitability to work with children and young people.

During the course, participants will have the opportunity to closely examine potential candidates' answers to interview questions and assess whether they are authentic or "pseudo indicators of suitability", masking a potential area of concern.

Timing:
One day

Course Suitable for:
People who have direct experience of working with children, young people or vulnerable adults. They should have a good basic awareness of child protection and have relevant knowledge and skills in recruitment and selection.

Aim's:
This course gives an introduction into Warner Interviewing and an opportunity to find out more about what is required in order to carry out effective interviewing.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course you will:

Have a greater understanding of what Warner Interviewing means.
Understand the importance of articulating clear values and behaviours to maximise safeguarding, and of ensuring individual alignment to these values.
Understand the key safeguarding employment standards and be able to use use them effectively.
Make use of personal interview questions when selecting staff who will work with children, young people
Be able to develop a culture of awareness and vigilance that will limit the opportunity for abuse.
Be able to practice and promote safer recruitment.

Methodology

Group activities
Facilitated discussions
Practice exercises
Case Studies

Relevant links

Bichard, M. (2004), The Bichard Inquiry Report. An independent inquiry arising from the Soham murders. House of Commons: London, The Stationery Office.

Warner, N. (1992) Choosing with Care. The Report of the Committee of Inquiry into the Selection, Development and Management of Staff in Children's Homes, HMSO: London.

Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act

Every Child Matters Agenda