Safeguarding and Child Protection
At Northcroft, the commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children is evident. Staff members undergo continuous professional development and training to ensure they can fulfil this commitment effectively. The school’s Child Protection & Safeguarding Policies provide further details on this important aspect.
Staff are trained to recognise signs of abuse and neglect, and they play a crucial role in reporting any concerns. The Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) takes charge of assessing the situation and determining the most appropriate course of action. Additionally, all adults working in the school share the responsibility of familiarising themselves with and understanding the safeguarding policies.
What is Safeguarding?
Safeguarding is a critical concept aimed at protecting children from harm, maltreatment, and neglect. Regardless of age, gender, religion, ethnicity, or socio-economic background, every child can be vulnerable. Here’s what safeguarding entails:
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Protection from Maltreatment: Safeguarding involves shielding children from any form of abuse, whether physical, emotional, or sexual.
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Health and Development: It also focusses on preventing anything that could impair a child’s health or hinder their development.
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Safe and Effective Care: Ensuring that children grow up in safe and supportive environments is essential. This includes providing effective care that promotes their well-being.
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Collective Responsibility: Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. Anyone who interacts with children and families plays a crucial role in promoting their welfare and protecting them from harm.
Remember, safeguarding requires a collaborative effort to create a safe and nurturing environment for all children.
Working Together to Safeguard Children 2023
What constitutes a child protection concern?
Abuse refers to intentional actions that cause harm or have the potential to harm a child’s safety, well-being, and development. It can manifest in various forms:
- Physical Abuse: Involves physical harm, such as hitting, shaking, or causing injury to a child.
- Sexual Abuse: Includes any form of sexual exploitation or violation.
- Emotional Abuse: Harms a child’s emotional well-being through threats, humiliation, or manipulation.
- Neglect: Failing to provide essential physical safety and well-being for a child.
It’s essential to recognise that abuse doesn’t always fit neatly into these categories, and identifying it can be challenging. Vigilance and awareness are crucial in safeguarding children.
What you can do:
IF YOU HAVE ANY CONCERNS ABOUT ANY OF THE CHILDREN IN OUR CARE, PLEASE CONTACT
ALEX WALSH (HEADTEACHER) OR EMILY COVELL TO REPORT THESE CONCERNS IMMEDIATELY
If your concern is outside of school hours or falls during the school holidays, please contact:-
· West Berkshire Children’s Social Care Telephone: 01635 503090
Email: child@westberks.gov.uk or The Local Police on 111 or The NSPCC on 0808 800 5000