Safeguarding Children

Quick Reference for School Staff, Volunteers and Visitors

• We ask that your mobile phone/device is switched off and stored in a bag.
• If in the event you do need to use your mobile phone or camera-enabled device, then please do so in an area that is not accessed by the children, this includes corridors. Such places could be in one of the offices or the staff room.
• Do not take pictures, videos, or sound recordings of any pupil unless you have sought permission from the school.
• If you are working with a child, please ensure the child’s class teacher is aware of this, where you are working, and approximately for how long.
• When working with a child, please do so in a space that is open, has an open door, or is visible to others through a window.

When and what might I be concerned about?

At any time you may be concerned about information that suggests a child is being neglected or experiencing physical, emotional, or sexual harm. You may observe physical signs, notice changes in the child’s behaviour or presentation, pick up signs of emotional distress, or have a child disclose a harmful experience to you.

Harm to a child can be caused by:

A parent or carer

A family member or friend

Another Child

A stranger

A member of staff or volunteer *

What should I do if a child discloses that they are being harmed?

• Listen - Listen carefully to what is being said to you, do not interrupt.                                                                                              
• Reassure - Reassure the pupil that it is not their fault. Stress that it was the right thing to tell. Be calm, attentive and non-judgemental. Do not promise to keep what is said a secret. Ask non-leading questions (TED) to clarify if necessary:

        Tell me more …

        Explain that to me…

        Describe what happened …

The information you have may not be enough on its own for a Child Protection referral, however, it will help your Designated Senior Lead to make a decision about risk of harm to the child.

Then follow the steps in the flowchart below.

What must I do?

• Recognise your concern
• Respond – inform your DSL/Deputy DSL without delay (or Head of School/Chair of Governors where appropriate *)
• Make a written record (using the child’s own words), sign and date it
• Pass the record to the DSL/deputy DSL (where appropriate *)

What should I do if the alleged abuser is a member of the school staff? *

If your concern is about a staff member or volunteer, you should report this to the Executive Headteacher or Head of School. If your concerns are about the Head of School, Executive Headteacher or Chair of Governors, please contact MASH for advice. 

How do I ensure my behaviour is always appropriate?

Please ask a member of the Senior Leadership Team for school guidance regarding Safer Working Practice. The DCSF have also produced guidance entitled:

Keeping Children Safe in Education

Safeguarding is everybody’s responsibility – if the school DSL/DDSL is unavailable please contact MASH (multi-agency safeguarding hub) on:

0345 155 1071

or the out of hours MASH Emergency Duty Team on:

0345 6000 388