SAFEGUARDINGPOLICY
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adaptedJuly2015fromACESafeguardingPolicyforallschools
Contents
1. AcornCareandEducationPolicyStatement
2. Introduction
3. RolesandResponsibilities
4. DefinitionsandSignsofAbuse
5. SafeguardingReferralProcedure
6. ManagingAllegationsagainstStaff
7. PromotingGoodBehaviourandDiscipline
8. InformationSharingandConfidentiality
9. PowerandPositionofTrust
10. ChildCentredApproach
11. WhistleBlowing
12. InductionandTraining
13. SaferRecruitment
14. MissingChildren
15. Bullying
16. E-Safety
17. RiskAssessment
18. RecordingandReporting
19. EvaluationandMonitoring
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1.PolicyStatementbyAcornCareandEducation
Acorn Care and Education is fully committed to safeguarding the welfare of all children and
young people. It recognises its responsibility to take all reasonable steps to promote safe
practiceandtoprotectchildrenfromharm,abuseandexploitation.AcornCareandEducation
acknowledgesitsdutytoactappropriatelytoanyallegations,reportsorsuspicionsofabuseor
harm. All Acorn Care and Education staff and volunteers will endeavour to work together
through our policies, practices and procedures to encourage the development of an ethos
whichembracesdifferenceanddiversityandrespectstherightsofchildren,youngpeopleand
adultsinitscare.
Tofulfiltheircommitmenttosafeguardandpromotethewelfareofchildrenandyoungpeople,
all Acorn Care and Education organisations (schools and homes) that provide services for, or
workwithchildrenandyoungpeoplemusthave:-
v clearprioritiesforsafeguardingandpromotingthewelfareofchildrenandyoung
people,explicitlystatedinstrategicpolicydocuments
v aclearcommitmentbyseniormanagement(DirectorsandPrincipals)totheimportance
ofsafeguardingandpromotingchildrenandyoungpeople’swelfare
v aclearlineofaccountabilitywithintheorganisationforworkonsafeguardingand
promotingthewelfareofchildrenandyoungpeople
v recruitmentandhumanresourcesmanagementproceduresthattakeaccountofthe
needtosafeguardandpromotethewelfareofchildrenandyoungpeople,including
arrangementsforappropriatechecksonallstaffandvolunteers
v proceduresfordealingwithallegationsofabuseagainstmembersofstaffand
volunteers
v arrangementstoensurethatallstaffundertakeappropriatetraining(seeTraining
Matrix)toequipthemtocarryouttheirresponsibilitieseffectively,andtokeepthisupto-datebyrefreshertrainingatregularintervals
v procedurestoensurethatallstaff,includingtemporarystaffandvolunteerswhowork
withchildrenandyoungpeople,aremadeawareoftheestablishment’sarrangements
forsafeguardingandpromotingthewelfareofchildrenandyoungpeople
v policiesforsafeguardingandpromotingthewelfareofchildrenandyoungpeopleand
proceduresthatareinaccordancewithguidanceandlocallyagreedinter-agency
procedures
v arrangementstoworkeffectivelywithotherorganisationstosafeguardandpromotethe
welfareofchildrenandyoungpeople,includingarrangementsforsharinginformation
v aclearcommitmenttodevelopandimplementsystemsthatenablechildrenandyoung
peopletouseonlineandmobiletechnologysafelyandreducetherisksofpotentially
harmfulbehaviours
v acultureoflisteningtoandengagingindialoguewithchildrenandyoungpeople-
seekingtheirviewsinwaysthatareappropriatetotheirageandunderstanding,and
takingaccountofthoseviewsinindividualdecisionsandintheestablishmentor
developmentofservices
v definitivewhistleblowingproceduresandaculturethatenablesissuesabout
safeguardingandpromotingthewelfareofchildrenandyoungpeopletobeaddressed
TheprinciplesuponwhichtheSafeguardingPolicyisbased
v thewelfareofachildoryoungpersonwillalwaysbeparamount
v thewelfareoffamilieswillbepromoted
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v therights,wishesandfeelingsofchildren,youngpeopleandtheirfamilieswillbe
respectedandlistenedto
v keepingchildrenandyoungpeoplesafefromharmrequirespeoplewhoworkwith
childrenandyoungpeopletoshareinformation
v thosepeopleinpositionsofresponsibilitywithintheorganisationwillworkin
accordancewiththeinterestsofchildrenandyoungpeopleandfollowthepolicy
outlinedbelow
This document is written in accordance with Local Safeguarding Children Boards’ Policies,
‘SafeguardingVulnerableGroups’,2006,‘WorkingTogethertoSafeguardChildren’March2015and
‘KeepingChildrenSafeinEducation’,March2015.
Signed:
(signatureonhardcopy)
Natalie-JaneMacDonald,CEO,AcornCareandEducation
May2015
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2.Introduction
The Shires at Oakham (which for the purposes of this document includes the school and the
children’shome)stafffullyrecognisetheirprimaryresponsibilitiesaretoprotectandsafeguardthe
welfareofchildrenandyoungpeople.Theschoolrecognisesitslegaldutyunders175EducationAct
2002(section157inrelationtoindependentschoolsandacademies)andthe1989ChildrenActand
takesseriouslyitsresponsibilitiestoprotectandsafeguardtheinterestsofallpupils/students.This
organisationrecognisesthateffectivechildprotectionworkrequiressoundprocedures,goodinteragency co-operation and a workforce that is competent and confident in responding to child
protectionsituations.
TheShiresatOakhamadoptsthedefinitionofsafeguardingusedintheChildrenAct2004andinthe
Department for Education guidance document ‘Working Together to Safeguard Children’, 2015,
whichhaveafocusonsafeguardingandpromotingchildrenandyoungpeople’swelfare.Thiscanbe
summarisedas:
v protectingchildrenandyoungpeopleandfrommaltreatment
v preventingimpairmentofchildren’sandyoungpeople’shealthordevelopment
v ensuring that children and young people are growing up in circumstances consistent with
theprovisionofsafeandeffectivecare
v undertakingthatolesoastoenablethosechildrenandyoungpeopletohaveoptimumlife
chancesandtoenteradulthoodsuccessfully
Thisdocumenthasregardtothestatutoryguidance‘WorkingTogethertoSafeguardChildren2015’
and ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education March 2015’. The Policy is in keeping with Rutland
SafeguardingChildrenBoard’sPolicies,ProceduresandTrainingStrategyandreflectswhatRutland
Safeguarding Children’s Board considers to be safe and professional practice in this context. Child
Protection has to be considered within professionals’ wider ‘safeguarding’ responsibilities that
includeadutytoco-operateundertheChildrenAct2004andtakesaccountoftheneedforchildren
to‘behealthy’and‘staysafe’.
WealsohaveregardtotheCareAct2015whichinformsaframeworktoprotectadultsfromabuse
andneglect.
ThisSafeguardingPolicyappliestoTheShiresatOakhamandsupportsAcornCareandEducation’s
commitmenttoprovidecaringandsafeenvironmentsinwhichallchildren,youngpeopleandadults
candevelopsocially,emotionallyandeducationallyandinwhichallchildren,youngpeople,adultsat
riskandstafffeelsafe,secureandvalued.
ThispolicyshallmeettherequirementsoftheIndependentSchoolStandards2015.
UnderpinningValues
Where there is a safeguarding issue, The Shires at Oakham will work in accordance with the
principlessetoutinthispolicyandthoseoutlinedintheRutlandSafeguardingChildrenBoardInteragencyChildProtectionprocedures:
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ItisastatutoryrequirementforallschoolstohaveaSafeguardingPolicywhichispublishedonthe
relevant website and is made available to parents and carers on request. Parents and carers are
madeawarethroughtheadmissionprocessthattheSafeguardingPolicyisreferencedintheschool
prospectus.
v a child’s welfare is paramount. Each child has a right to be protected from harm and
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exploitationandtohavetheirwelfaresafeguarded
each child is unique. Action taken by child welfare organisations should be child-centred,
taking account of a child’s cultural, ethnic and religious background, their gender, their
sexualorientation,theirindividualabilityandanyspecialneeds
children,parentsandothercarersshouldbemadeawareoftheirresponsibilitiesandtheir
rights, together with advice about the power of professionals to intervene in their family
circumstances
individual family members must be involved in decisions affecting them. They must be
treatedwithcourtesyandrespectandwithdueregardgiventoworkingwiththeminaspirit
of partnership in safeguarding children’s welfare. However, it may not be appropriate to
advise parents/carers immediately about a referral depending on circumstances and the
advice given by Children’s Social Care. The welfare of the child is paramount in such
situations
eachchildhasarighttobeconsultedaboutactionstakenbyothersonhis/herbehalfinan
ageappropriateway.Theconcernsofchildrenandtheirfamiliesshouldbelistenedtoand
due consideration given to their understanding, wishes and feelings. However, it may not
alwaysbepossibletorespectachild/carer’srequestforconfidentiality.Ifachildmaybeat
risk of significant harm, there is a duty on the school to share information with Children’s
Social Care in the area that the event or incident took place. If the incident or event has
takenplacewithinRutlandthenRutlandLCSBandthepupil’shomelocalauthoritychildren’s
servicesneedtobeinformed.RutlandLADOneedstobenotifiediftheconcernrelatestoa
member of school staff or volunteer staff. This will be explained to the child or family
memberandappropriatereassurancegiven
personalinformationisusuallyconfidential.Itshouldonlybesharedwiththepermissionof
theindividualconcerned(and/orthosewithparentalresponsibility)unlessthedisclosureof
confidential personal information is necessary in order to protect a child or promote their
welfare.Inallcircumstances,informationmustbeconfinedtothosepeopledirectlyinvolved
intheprofessionalnetworkofeachindividualchildandonastrict“needtoknow”basis
professionals should be aware of the effects of outside intervention upon children, upon
familylifeandtheimpactandimplicationsofwhattheysayanddo
explanations by professionals to children, their families and other carers should be plainly
stated and jargon-free. Unavoidable technical and professional terminology should be
explainedinsimpleterm
sound professional practice is based upon positive inter-agency collaboration, evidencebasedresearchandeffectivesupervisionandevaluation
early intervention in providing support services will utilise the Common Assessment
Framework Process and if necessary an assessment under Section 17 of the Children Act
(1989). This is an important principle of practice in inter-agency arrangements for
safeguardingthewelfareofchildren
3.RolesandResponsibilities
All staff working at The Shires at Oakham have a statutory duty and shared responsibility to
safeguard and protect the welfare of children and young people. The Directors of Acorn Care and
Education through Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSL) (G S McEwan, Assistant Director -
Education)haveresponsibilityfor:-
v ensuring The Shires at Oakham operate and practice in line with the organisations
safeguardingpoliciesandproceduresthatcomplywithRutlandLSCBarrangements
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v providing the necessary support and resources to ensure schools and keep children and
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youngpeoplesafe,throughatleastgoodstandardsofcareandeducation
reportingonamonthlybasisanoverviewofsafeguardingconcernsandissues,actionstaken
andanypotentialimplicationsforfuturepractice
organising an annual safeguarding audit, with the designated safeguarding leads ensuring
recommendationshavebeeneffectivelyimplementedthroughmonthlymonitoringvisits
providing support and resources to the staff involved in managing safeguarding issues, as
the organisation acknowledges how stressful safeguarding situations are e.g. providing
additionalstaffingortherapyifrequired
toreviewtheorganisation’ssafeguardingpolicyannually,nextreviewdateAugust2016
TheDSLinTheShiresatOakhamistheteachingmanager.
IfthereisaconcernorallegationagainsttheDirectorofCareandEducation,thestaffshouldinform
GrahamMcEwan(AssistantDirector-Education)on01204558038.
TheDirectorofCareandEducationhasresponsibilityfor:-
v ensuringtheorganisation’ssafeguardingpoliciesandproceduresareeffectivelyembedded
inthecultureoftheschoolandarecompliantwithLSCBRutland)procedures
v ensuringthatthereisaDesignatedSafeguardingLeadontheSeniorLeadershipTeam,with
theappropriatetraining(seeTheShiresatOakhamTrainingMatrixandsection12.3ofthis
policy)andtimeandsupporttofulfiltheirroleandresponsibilities
v ensuringthereisatraineddeputyDSL
v ensuringallstaffandvolunteersaretrained(seeTheShiresatOakhamTrainingMatrixand
section 12.3 of this policy) in the definitions and signs of abuse, and are conversant with
theirsafeguardingduties,andhavesoundknowledgeofthereferralprocess
v ensuringthatthereisadesignatedmanagerofallegationsagainststaff,normallyamember
of the senior leadership team and that they implement the procedures within the
Allegationsagainststaffpolicy
v ensuring confidentiality protocols are respected and that information is shared with the
relevantagenciesandpersonnel
v ensuringsafeguardingpracticesandprocedures,prevent,protectandsupportchildrenand
youngpeoplefromtherisksofharmandpotentialabuse
v ensuring any child or young person who has been subject to harm or abuse receives the
supportrequiredincludinghospitaltreatment
v ensuring the staff including agency staff and volunteers are aware of the names of key
peopleincludingtheLADO,DSL,ACEDSL
TheDesignatedSafeguardingLead(DSL)isresponsiblefor:
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membersorotherpersonsinaprofessionalroleattheearliestopportunity
ensuring that children and young people who are at risk of harm or who have been
potentiallyabusedareimmediatelyprotectedandsafefromharmorabuse
referring a child or young person if there are grounds for concern to the relevant local
Children’sServicesteam,initiallybytelephone
seekingadviceiftheconcernsorallegedabuserelatetothechildoryoungperson’shome
life
ensuring that the school does not take any further action without first consulting the
relevantChildren’sServicesteam
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v ensuringthattheLADOforTheShiresatOakhamisinformedofanyallegationsaboutstaff
v providing a full written record of the referral and accurate chronology, outlining
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communicationandactionstakentothelocalareaChildren’sServicesteamwithin24hours
ensuring that all records are maintained confidentially, securely and separately from other
childrenandyoungperson’srecords.Accesstotheconfidentialrecordsisrestrictedtothe
DSLs.Aclear‘signpost’willindicateinayoungperson’smainfilethataconfidentialreportis
heldinaseparateChildProtectionfile
providingsupportandguidancetostaffonsafeguardingissues
ensuringthattheDSLorDeputyDSLattendscaseconferences,COREgroupsorothermulti
agencyplanningmeetings,contributestoassessmentsandprovidesareportthathasbeen
sharedwiththeparents
liaisingwithotheragenciesandprofessionals(e.g.contactdetailsoflocalChildren’sServices
team)
TheStaffatTheShiresatOakhamareresponsiblefor:-
v supportinganddeliveringacurriculumthatpromotesthepreventionofandprotectionfrom
childabuseorharm
v supportingtheschoolinprovidinganatmosphereandethosinwhichpupilsfeelsecureand
areencouragedtotalkandbelistenedto
v listeningtoanychildwhoapproachesthemwishingtoshareworriesandconcerns
v being supportive of children and young people, while helping them understand that they
cannotguaranteeabsoluteconfidentiality
v beingalerttoanysignsofabuseorharminthechildrenandyoungpeopletheyhavecontact
with
v immediatelyreportinganysuchconcernsbothorallyandinwriting(seeAppendix1b)tothe
leadDSLorintheirabsencethedeputyDSL
v understanding that individual staff with concerns may refer to the local children’s services
directly
v takingpartinanytraining(seeTheShiresatOakhamTrainingMatrix)providedbytheschool
onchildprotectionissues
v Understandingandpractisingtheschool’ssafeguardingprocedures
4.DefinitionsandSignsofAbuse
Whatischildabuse?
Generalsignsofabuse:
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Childabuseisaformofmaltreatmentofachildoryoungperson.Somebodymayabuseorneglecta
child or young person by inflicting harm or by failing to act to prevent harm. Children or young
peoplemaybeabusedinafamilyorinstitutionalorcommunitysettingbythoseknowntothem,or
morerarely,byothers(e.g.viatheinternet).Theymaybeabusedbyanadultoradultsoranother
childorchildren.
Therearefourbroadcategoriesofchildabuse:
v physicalabuse
v emotionalabuse
v sexualabuse
v neglect
Abusedchildrenmaybeafraidtotellanybodyabouttheabuse.Theymaystrugglewithfeelingsof
guilt, shame or confusion – particularly if the abuser is a parent, caregiver or other close family
member or friend. Anyone working with children or young people needs to be vigilant to the
possiblesignslistedbelowwhichareoften,althoughnotexclusively,linkedtoabuse.
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regularlyexperiencingnightmaresorsleepingproblems
changesinpersonality
outburstsofanger
changesineatinghabits
showing an inexplicable fear of particular places or making excuses to avoid particular
people
self-harming(includesheadbanging,scratching,cutting)
notreceivingadequatemedicalattentionafterinjuries
showingviolencetoanimals,toys,peersoradults
knowledgeof"adultissues"e.g.alcohol,drugs,sexualbehaviour
lackinginconfidenceoroftenwary/anxious
regressingtothebehaviourofyoungerchildren
regular flinching in response to sudden but harmless actions, e.g. someone raising a
handquickly
Physicalabuseisaformofabusewhichmayinvolvehitting,shaking,throwing,poisoning,burningor
scalding,drowning,suffocatingorotherwisecausingphysicalharmtoachild.Physicalharmmayalso
be caused when a parent or carer fabricates the symptoms of, or deliberately induces, illness in a
child.
Itisnormalforchildrentohavecutsandbruisesontheirbodiescausedbyaccidentswhichhappen
whilst they are moving about and/or playing. These are marks that have an acceptable and
reasonableexplanation.Marksorinjurieswhichdonothaveanacceptableexplanationmayindicate
thatachildhasbeenabused.Theymayinclude:
Bruisesonthecheeks,ears,palms,armsandfeet
Bruisesontheback,buttocks,tummy,hipsandbacksoflegs
Multiplebruisesinclusters,usuallyontheupperarmsorouterthighs
Bruising which looks like it has been caused by fingers, a hand, or an object i.e. belt,
shoe
v Largeovalshapedbitemarks
v Anyburnswhichhaveaclearshapeofanobject,e.g.cigaretteburns
v Burnstothebacksofhands,feet,legs,genitals,orbuttocks
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Other signs of physicalabuseincludemultipleinjuries(i.e.bruising,fractures)inflictedatdifferent
times.Itisparticularlyconcerningifparents/carersareunabletoexplaintheseinjuriesanditisnot
clearwhethertheytookthechildtoreceivemedicaltreatmentatthetimeoftheinjury.
Emotional abuse is the persistent emotional maltreatment of a child such as to cause severe and
persistentadverseeffectsonthechild’semotionaldevelopment.Itmayinvolveconveyingtoachild
that they are worthless or unloved, inadequate, or valued only insofar as they meet the needs of
anotherperson.Itmayincludenotgivingthechildopportunitiestoexpresstheirviews,deliberately
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Bevigilanttopossibleabuseifachildisfrequentlydescribedasillbytheirparentbutdoesnothave
anysymptomswhichareobvioustoothers.Inaddition,theparentwillbeunabletoprovidedetails
ofamedicaldiagnosisforthechild’sapparentcondition.
silencing them or ‘making fun’ of what they say or how they communicate. It may feature age or
developmentally inappropriate expectations being imposed on children. These may include
interactions that are beyond a child’s developmental capability as well as overprotection and
limitation of exploration and learning, or preventing the child participating in normal social
interaction. It may involve seeing or hearing the ill-treatment of another. It may involve serious
bullying(includingcyberbullying*),causingchildrenfrequentlytofeelfrightenedorindanger,orthe
exploitation or corruption of children. Some level of emotional abuse is involved in all types of
maltreatmentofachild,althoughitmayoccuralone.
*cyberbullyingisagrowingproblemandincludes:
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sendingthreateningordisturbingtextmessages
homophobia,racismorsexism
makingsilent,hoaxorabusivecalls
creatingandsharingembarrassingimagesorvideos
'trolling',thesendingofmenacingorupsettingmessagesonsocialnetworks,chatrooms
oronlinegames
excludingchildrenfromonlinegames,activitiesorfriendshipgroups
settinguphatesitesorgroupsaboutaparticularchild
encouragingyoungpeopletoself-harm
votingforsomeoneinanabusivepoll
hijacking or stealing online identities to embarrass a young person or cause trouble
usingtheirname
sending'sexts'topressureachildintosendingimagesorotheractivity
Itisimportanttorememberthatsomechildrenarenaturallyopenandaffectionatewhilstothersare
quieter and more self-contained. Children also develop at different rates from one another and
somemaybeslightlymoreorlessadvancedthanotherchildrenintheiragegroup.Moodswingsand
challengingbehaviourarealsoanormalpartofgrowingupforteenagersandchildrengoingthrough
puberty.Bealerttobehaviourswhichappeartobeoutofcharacterfortheindividualchild.
Thefollowingsignsmayindicateemotionalabuse:
inappropriateknowledgeof‘adult’matterssuchassex,alcoholanddrugs
extremeemotionaloutbursts
verylowself-esteem,oftenwithaninabilitytoacceptpraiseortotrust
lackofanysenseoffun,over-seriousorapathetic
excessiveclingyorattentionseekingbehaviour
over-anxiety,eitherwatchfulandconstantlycheckingorover-anxioustoplease
developmentaldelay,especiallyinspeech
substantial failure to reach potential in learning, linked with lack of confidence, poor
concentrationandlackofprideinachievement
v self-harming,compulsiverituals,stereotypicrepetitivebehaviour
v unusualpatternofresponsetoothersshowingemotions
Sexualabuseinvolvesforcingorenticingachildoryoungpersontotakepartinsexualactivities,not
necessarilyinvolvingahighlevelofviolence,whetherornotthechildisawareofwhatishappening.
The activities may involve physical contact, including assault by penetration (for example rape or
oral sex) or non-penetrative acts such as masturbation, kissing, rubbing and touching outside of
clothing.Theymayalsoincludenon-contactactivities,suchasinvolvingchildreninlookingat,orin
the production of, sexual images, watching sexual activities, encouraging children to behave in
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sexuallyinappropriateways,orgroomingachildinpreparationforabuse(includingviatheinternet).
Sexualabuseisnotsolelyperpetratedbyadultmales.Womencanalsocommitactsofsexualabuse,
ascanotherchildren.
Sexualabuseoftenpresentsitselfinaveiledway.Althoughsomechildvictimshaveobviousgenital
injuries, a sexually transmitted disease or are pregnant, relatively few show such obvious signs.
Recognition of sexual abuse generally follows either a direct statement from the child (or very
occasionally from the abuser), or more often, suspicion based on the child's circumstances,
behaviour,orphysicalsymptomsorsigns.Thefollowinglistofcommonlyobservedindicatorsisnot
exhaustiveandtheremaybesituationswherenoneofthemispresent,eventhoughachildisknown
to have been abused sexually. Equally, even if some are present it may also not be definitive of
sexual abuse. These physical signs should alert professionals to the possibility of abuse. Suspicion
increaseswhereseveralfeaturesarepresenttogether.
v sexuallytransmitteddiseases
v pregnancy(especiallyinyoungergirlsorwhenidentityoffatherisuncertain)
v genitallacerationsorbruising
v vaginalbleedinginprepubescentgirls
v abnormaldilationofvagina,anusorurethra
v additionalphysicalsigns
Althoughthesesignsarenotontheirownindicativeofsexualabuse,theyinclude:
itching,redness,soreness
unexplainedbleedingfromvaginaoranus
daytimewetting
faecalsoilingorretention
behaviourwithsexualovertones(dependingonageandunderstanding):
explicitorfrequentsexualpreoccupationintalkandplay
sexualrelationshipswithadultsorotherchildren
hintingatsexualactivityorsecretsthroughwords,playordrawings
unusualor‘outofcharacter’sexualisedbehaviourespeciallyinyoungsterswithlearning
disabilities
Childrenwhohavebeensexuallyabusedmayalsobehaveinthefollowingways:
v withdrawn,fearfuloraggressivebehaviourtopeersoradults
v runningawayfromhome
v suicideattemptsandself-mutilation
v child psychiatric problems, including behaviour problems, withdrawal from social
contact, onset of wetting or soiling when previously dry and clean, severe sleep
disturbances,arson(firesetting)
v learningproblemswhichdonotmatchintellectualability,orpoorconcentration(NB:for
some sexually abused children, school may be a haven - they will arrive early, are
reluctanttoleaveandperformwell)
v markedreluctancetoparticipateinphysicalactivityortochangeclothesforPE,etc.
Neglectisthepersistentfailuretomeetachild’sbasicphysicaland/orpsychologicalneeds,
Likelytoresultintheseriousimpairmentofthechild’shealthordevelopment.Neglectmayoccur
duringpregnancyasaresultofmaternalsubstanceabuse.Onceachildisborn,neglectmayinvolve
a parent or carer failing to: provide adequate food, clothing and shelter (including exclusion from
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ChildSexualExploitation(CSE)
Sexualexploitationisaformofsexualabuseinwhichayoungpersonismanipulatedorforcedinto
takingpartinasexualact.Thiscouldbeaspartofaseeminglyconsensualrelationshiporinreturn
forattention,affection,money,drugs,alcoholorsomewheretostay.Technologyiswidelyusedby
perpetrators as a method of grooming and coercing victims, often through social networking sites
and mobile devices. This form of abuse usually occurs in private, or in semi-public places such as
parks,cinemas,cafesandhotels.Itisincreasinglyoccurringat‘parties’organisedbyperpetratorsfor
thepurposesofgivingvictimsdrugsandalcoholbeforesexuallyabusingthem.
SexualExploitationcanhappentoanychild/youngpersonwhatevertheirbackground,age,gender,
race or sexuality or wherever they live. In all cases, those exploiting the child/young person are
highly manipulative people who have power over them by virtue of their age, gender, intellect,
physicalstrengthand/oreconomicorotherresources.Thisformofabuseisusuallyahiddencrime
asthechild/youngpersontruststheirabuseranddoesnotunderstandwhytheyarebeingabusedor
theymayjustbetooscaredtotellanyonewhatishappening.Itcaninvolveviolent,humiliatingand
degradingsexualassaults.
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home or abandonment); protect a child from physical and emotional harm or danger; ensure
adequatesupervision(includingtheuseofinadequatecare-givers);orensureaccesstoappropriate
medical care or treatment. It may also include neglect of, or unresponsiveness to, a child’s basic
emotionalneeds.
It is important to remember that some children are very picky eaters whilst others may refuse to
wearacoatregardlessofhowcolditisoutside.Achildmayalsoappeartobeunderweight,butis,in
fact,naturallythin.Someofthemostobvioussignsofneglect(e.g.childrenbeingthin,dirtyornot
wearingacoat)arenotinthemselvesindicatorsofabuse.However,if,overtime,itisclearthata
child is not receiving an adequate level of care and supervision appropriate to their age, it may
indicate that the child is being neglected. The following are general and age-specific signs of
neglect:-
v poorhygiene,frequentlysmellyordirtyandregularlyhavedirtyandunwashedclothing
v untreatedhealthanddentalproblems
v poormuscletoneandprominentjoints
v poorskin;sores,rashes,fleabites,scabiesandringworm
v thinbutwithaswollentummy
v injuriescausedbyaccidents,e.g.cutsorburnsbecominginfected
v anemia
v incontinence
v falteringgrowthandnotreachingdevelopmentalmilestones
v recurringillnessorinfections
v oftenhungry
v nobreakfast
v beingtiredwithdrawnandunhappy
v anxiousandavoidingpeople
v difficultymakingfriends
v poorlanguageandcommunicationskills
v poorsocialskills
v missingschool
Sexual exploitation involves varying degrees of coercion, intimidation or enticement, including
unwantedpressurefrompeerstohavesex,sexualbullyingincludingcyberbullyingandgrooming.It
isimportanttorecognisethatsomeyoungpeoplewhoarebeingsexuallyexploiteddonotexhibit
anyexternalsignsofthisabuseandsomedonotrecognisethattheyarebeingexploited.However,
thereareanumberoftell-talesignsthatthechildmaybebeinggroomedforsexualexploitation.
Theseinclude:-
v goingmissingforperiodsoftimeorregularlyreturninghomelate
v regularlymissingschoolornottakingpartineducation
v appearingwithunexplainedgiftsornewpossessions
v associatingwithotheryoungpeopleinvolvedinexploitation
v havingolderboyfriendsorgirlfriends
v sufferingfromsexuallytransmittedinfection
v moodswingsorchangesinemotionalwell-being
v drugandalcoholmisuse
v displayinginappropriatesexualisedbehaviour
ChildVictimsofTrafficking
Traffickingofchildrenisaformofhumantraffickingwhichmeanstherecruitment,transportation,
transfer,harbouring,and/orreceiptofachildbymeansofathreatoruseofforceorotherformsof
coercionforthepurposesofexploitation.
Trafficking specifically targets the child as an object of exploitation; the child may be unaware of
theirfate.Therearemanyreasonswhytraffickingofchildrenoccursandtheyinclude:-
v sexualexploitation
v domesticservitude
v sweatshop,restaurantandothercateringwork
v agriculturallabour,includingtendingplantsinillegalcannabisfarms
v benefitfraud
v involvementinpettycriminalactivity
v organharvesting
v drugmules,drugdealingordecoysforadultdrugtraffickers
v illegalinter-countryadoption
Itispossiblethatunaccompaniedasylumseekingchildren(UASC)mayhavebeentraffickedintothe
UKandarelikelytoremainundertheinfluenceoftheirtraffickers,evenwhilsttheyarelookedafter.
Anychildwhohasbeenavictimoftraffickingwillhaveariskassessmentsettingouthowthechild
will be protected from any trafficker, to minimise any risk of traffickers being able to re-involve a
childinexploitativeactivities.Thisplanshouldincludecontingencyplanstobefollowediftheyoung
persongoesmissing.
Grooming
Groomingcanhappeninperson,onlineandingangsorgroups.Oncetheyhaveestablishedtrust,
groomers will exploit the relationship by isolating the child from friends or family and making the
childfeeldependentonthem.Theywilluseanymeansofpowerorcontroltomakeachildbelieve
theyhavenochoicebuttodowhattheywant.Groomersmayintroduce'secrets'asawaytocontrol
adaptedJuly2015fromACESafeguardingPolicyforallschools
page 13
FemaleGenitalMutilation(FGM)andForcedMarriage
Femalegenitalmutilation(FGM)isthepartialortotalremovalofexternalfemalegenitaliafornonmedicalreasons.It'salsoknownasfemalecircumcision,cuttingorsunna.Religious,socialorcultural
reasonsaresometimesgivenforFGM.However,FGMischildabuse.Itisdangerousandhasbeena
criminaloffenceintheUKsince1985.In2003italsobecameacriminaloffenceforUKnationalsor
permanentUKresidentstotaketheirchildabroadtohavefemalegenitalmutilation.Anyonefound
guiltyoftheoffencefacesamaximumpenaltyof14yearsinprison.Therearenomedicalreasonsto
carry out FGM. It does not enhance fertility and it does not make childbirth safer. It is used to
control female sexuality and can cause severe and long-lasting damage to physical and emotional
health.
FGMisahiddencrime,sowedon'tknowexactlyhowcommonitis.Evenpartialremovalor'nipping'
canriskserioushealthproblemsforgirlsandwomen.FGMisusuallyperformedbysomeonewithno
medical training. Girls are given no anesthetic, no antiseptic treatment and are often forcibly
restrained.The cutting is made using instruments such as a knife, pair of scissors, scalpel, glass or
razorblade.GirlsaremoreatriskifFGMhasbeencarriedoutontheirmother,sisteroramemberof
theirextendedfamily.AgirlatimmediateriskofFGMmaynotknowwhat'sgoingtohappen.But
shemighttalkabout:
v beingtaken'home'tovisitfamily
v aspecialoccasionto'becomeawoman'
v anolderfemalerelativevisitingtheUK
ShemayaskateacheroranotheradultforhelpifshesuspectsFGMisgoingtohappenorshemay
runawayfromhomeormissschool.
AgirlorwomanwhohashadFGMmay:-
adaptedJuly2015fromACESafeguardingPolicyforallschools
page 14
orfrightenthechild.Sometimestheywillblackmailthechild,ormakethemfeelashamedorguilty,
tostopthemtellinganyoneabouttheabuse.Groomerscanusesocialmediasites,instantmessaging
appsincludingteendatingapps,oronlinegamingplatformstoconnectwithayoungpersonorchild.
Theycanspendtimelearningaboutayoungperson’sinterestsfromtheironlineprofilesandthen
usethisknowledgetohelpthembuilduparelationship.Itiseasyforgroomerstohidetheiridentity
online-theymaypretendtobeachildandthenchatandbecome‘friends’withchildrentheyare
targeting. Groomers may look for usernames or comments that are flirtatious or have a sexual
meaningorpubliccommentsthatsuggestachildhaslowself-esteemorisvulnerable.
Groomersdon’talwaystargetaparticularchild.Sometimestheywillsendmessagestohundredsof
youngpeopleandwaittoseewhoresponds.Groomersnolongerneedtomeetchildreninreallife
to abuse them. Increasingly, groomers are sexually exploiting their victims by persuading them to
takepartinonlinesexualactivity.Groomersmaybemaleorfemale.Theycouldbeanyage.Many
children and young people don't understand that they have been groomed, or that what has
happenedisabuse.Groomingcanbemorethanjustonesingleperson,itcanhappeningangsor
groups of people who are of both the same, and different, age, ethnicity, religion and social
backgrounds.
Further information can be found from Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF) and
Home Office (2009)Safeguarding children and young people from sexual exploitation:
supplementaryguidancetoWorkingtogethertosafeguardchildren(PDF).London:Departmentfor
Children,SchoolsandFamilies(DCSF)andwww.nspcc.org.uk
v
v
v
v
v
havedifficultywalking,sittingorstanding
spendlongerthannormalinthebathroomortoilet
haveunusualbehaviourafteranabsencefromschoolorcollege
beparticularlyreluctanttoundergonormalmedicalexaminations
askforhelp,butmaynotbeexplicitabouttheproblemduetoembarrassmentorfear
Long-termeffects
Girls and women who have had FGM may have problems that continue through adulthood,
including:
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
difficultiesurinatingorincontinence
frequentorchronicvaginal,pelvicorurinaryinfections
menstrualproblems
kidneydamageandpossiblefailure
cystsandabscesses
painwhenhavingsex
infertility
complicationsduringpregnancyandchildbirth
emotionalandmentalhealthproblems
The Shires at Oakham is an ‘open environment’, where students should feel able to discuss issues
that they may be facing. The Designated Safeguarding Leads are aware of the issues surrounding
FGMandForcedMarriage.Adviceandsignpostingisavailableforaccessingadditionalhelp,e.g.the
NSPCC’s helpline, ChildLine services, Forced Marriage Unit. Awareness raising about FGM is
incorporatedintheschool’ssafeguardingtraining.
If there is a disclosure of abuse of this kind, or staff are concerned for any other reason, they are
advised:-
v toalerttheDSLtotheirconcerns.Thismemberofstaffwillthenreferconcernstochildren’s
socialcare,whowillinformthepoliceiftheyneedassistance.Ifapupilhasdisclosedthat
theyareatriskinthisway,thecasewillstillbereferredtosocialcareevenifitisagainstthe
pupil’swishes.
v nottoconsultordiscusswiththepupil’sparentsorfamily,orotherswithinthecommunity.
ForfurtherinformationseeMultiAgencyPracticeGuidelines,2011.
VulnerabilitytoExtremismandRadicalisation
Extremismandradicalisationisanotherpartofsafeguardingchildrenandyoungpeople.Aswithany
concern, the risk of harm is raised when young people are vulnerable and is often noticed when
students change their behaviour, clothing or attitudes. One aspect of safeguarding children and
young people from radicalisation is to set out in ‘Promoting fundamental British values as part of
SMSCinschools’.ThisguidancesetsoutBritishvaluesas:
v democracy
v theruleoflaw
v individualliberty
adaptedJuly2015fromACESafeguardingPolicyforallschools
page 15
FGMhelplineon08080283550.
v mutualrespect
v thetoleranceofthosewithdifferentfaithsandvalues
Definitionofterrorism
ExtremismisvocaloractiveoppositiontofundamentalBritishvalues,includingdemocracy,therule
of law, individual liberty and mutual respect and tolerance of different faiths and beliefs. Calls for
thedeathofmembersoftheBritisharmedforcesisalsoincludedinthisdefinition.Extremismtakes
manyformsandallideologiesareincludedinthisareaofsafeguarding:
Indicatorsofvulnerability(signsandsymptoms)include:-
v thedistancingofthestudentfromtheircultural/religiousheritageandexperiences
v discomfortabouttheirplaceinsociety
v personalcrises,thestudentmaybeexperiencingfamilytensions
v asenseofisolation
v lowself-esteem
v theymaybedisassociatedfromtheirexistingfriendshipgroupandbecomeinvolvedwitha
newanddifferentgroupoffriends
v theymaybesearchingforanswerstoquestionsabouttheiridentity,faithandbelonging
MoreCriticalRiskfactorscouldinclude:-
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
beingincontactwithextremistrecruiters
accessingviolentextremistwebsites,especiallythosewithasocialnetworkingelement
possessingoraccessingviolentextremistliterature
usingextremistnarrativesandaglobalideologytoexplainpersonaldisadvantage
justifyingtheuseofviolencetosolvesocietalissues
joiningorseekingtojoinextremistorganisations
significantchangestoappearanceand/orbehaviour
experiencing a high level of social isolation, resulting in issues of identity crises and/or
personalcrises
Bullying occurs when a person or group of people behave in ways which are designed to cause
distressortohurtapersonorgroupofpeople.Bullyingcanbeovertandplainforalltoseeorcan
besubtleandinsidious.Itcantakemanyforms,butthethreemaintypesare:
v physical–e.g.hitting,kicking,theft
v verbal–e.g.racistorhomophobicremarks,threats,namecalling
v psychological – e.g. excluding from social groups and activities, spreading hurtful
rumours
5.SafeguardingReferralProcedure
Thefirststepstobetakenshouldamemberofstaffhavereasonablecausetosuspectthatachildor
youngpersonissufferingorislikelytosuffersignificantharmistoensuretheimmediatesafetyof
thatchildoryoungpersonandotherswhomaybejudgedtobeatriskofabuse.
Consultation must take place with the DSL (or named deputy) who will be the most appropriate
person to initiate any referral. A written record of concerns should be made using the schools
adaptedJuly2015fromACESafeguardingPolicyforallschools
page 16
Bullying
internalrecordingform.ThisshouldthenbegiventotheDSL(orDeputyifDSLunavailable)whowill
then make the decision whether a referral is needed to the Rutland First Response Team (or
equivalent other Local Children’s Services Care team) or the child’s existing social worker. If the
childlivesinanauthorityoutsideofRutland,thematterwillbereferredbytheDSLtotherelevant
Children’sSocialCareteaminthatarea.
Asperstatutorygovernmentguidance‘KeepingChildrenSafeinEducation2015’,anybodycanmake
areferral.However,duetotheroleoftheDSLthismemberofstaffmaybepartytoadditionaland
pertinent information and therefore is best placed to do so. If it is not possible to speak to the
DesignatedorDeputyDSL,ortherewouldbeanunwarranteddelaybydoingso,thememberofstaff
shouldcontacttheFirstResponseTeam(orotherlocalauthorityequivalent)todiscussconcerns.In
thesecircumstances,theDSLmustbeinformedaboutthereferralassoonaspossible.
For a Rutland student referral to First Response phone 07966 111058. The phone call will be
followedupwithwrittenconfirmationwithin48hours.
Thepersonwhofirstencountersacaseofallegedorsuspectedabuseisnotresponsiblefordeciding
whetherornotabusehasoccurredandshouldnotconductaninvestigationtoestablishwhetherthe
childistellingthetruth.Theroleofthepersontowhomachildmakesadisclosureorallegationisto
act promptly on the information they have received by following identified procedure below and
immediatelyinformingtheDSL.TheDataProtectionActisnotabarriertosharinginformationbut
providesaframeworktoensurethatpersonalinformationissharedappropriately.
Ifachildmakesadisclosureorallegation(seeappendix4)youshould:-
v staycalmandlistencarefullytowhatissaid.Youdonotneeda‘witness’
v carefullyexplainthatitislikelythattheinformationwillneedtobesharedwithothers-
donotpromisetokeepsecrets
v allow the child to continue at her/his own pace and do not interrupt if they are freely
recallingevents
v askquestionsforclarificationonly,andatalltimesavoidaskingquestionsthatsuggesta
particular answer. Questions should be framed in an open manner and not ‘lead’ the
childinanyway.Forexamplesay,“Tellmewhathashappened”,ratherthan,“Dids/he
do…”
v reassurethechildthats/hehasdonetherightthingintellingyou.Explainwhatyouwill
donextandwithwhomtheinformationwillbeshared
v not ask the child to repeat the disclosure to anyone else in school or ask him/her to
writea‘statement’
v contact your DSL as soon as you can or, where such contact is not possible, ensure a
referralismadewithoutdelaytothelocalchildren’sservicesteam
v recordinwritingwhatwassaid,includingthechild’sownwords,assoonaspossible–
note the date, time, any names mentioned, to whom the information was given and
ensurethattherecordissignedanddated
v notdiscusswithparents/carers
GuidanceonInformationSharingisavailableatthefollowinglinks:
‘InformationSharing:Guidanceforpractitionersandmanagers2008/2015’.Itisavailablefrom:
www.gov.uk
Areferralshouldalwaysbemadefollowingarestrictivephysicalinterventionifanyofthefollowing
criteriaapplies:
adaptedJuly2015fromACESafeguardingPolicyforallschools
page 17
v achildoryoungpersonisinjuredormakesanallegationthattheyhavebeenharmedby
RespondingtoconcernsrelatingtoSexualExploitationandTrafficking
Ifapractitionerisconcernedthatachildoryoungpersonisinvolvedorlikelytobeinvolvedinsexual
exploitationand/ortrafficking,theyshouldimmediatelyrefertotheDSLwhowillmakeaReferral
to Children's Social Care. If the child or young person has (or is awaiting allocation of) a social
worker,thedutyteamshouldsendthereferraltothenamedsocialworker,orintheirabsencethe
teammanager.SendingallsexualexploitationreferralstothedutyteamsenablesChildren'sSocial
Caretoensureacoordinatedresponse.
AcornCareandEducationrecognise,atallstages,theneedforurgentactionthatmaybenecessary
tosecurethechildoryoungperson'ssafety.ShouldtheDSLhaveconcernsthattheywouldliketo
discuss prior to a referral, they can do so by consulting with Acorn’s DSL or directly with the key
contactinChildren'sSocialCare.Allprofessionalsareencouragedtoseekadviceiftheyarenotsure
thereissufficient'evidence'orarenotsureaboutthepossibleriskindicators(seesection4above).
In relation to confidentiality, where there are concerns that a child or young person is subject to
sexualexploitation/trafficking,allagencieshavearesponsibilitytoreporttheirconcernsandshare
information. The need for a child or young person to be safeguarded overrides their right to
confidentiality. Data protection should not prevent the sharing of information but ensures that
relevantinformationissharedappropriately.
ThresholdsforIntervention:
EarlySupport:CommonAssessmentFramework-CAF
PractitionersshouldcompleteaCommonAssessmentFramework(CAF)when:
v ageappropriateprogressisnotbeingmadeandthecausesareunclearor
v thesupportofmorethanoneadditionalagencyisneededtomeetthechildoryoung
person’sneeds.
Nominated staff receive CAF awareness training (DSL will ensure staff are familiar with CAF
processes).StaffatTheShiresatOakhamhaveregularopportunitytodiscusschildrenwhoappear
tohaveadditionalneedswiththeDSLandCAFLead,thechildandparents.Theschoolwillneedto
obtainparental/pupilconsentforaCAFtobecompleted.Certainyoungpeoplewillbeabletogive
theirownconsentforaCAFincertaincircumstancesiftheyareoldenoughandcompetenttodoso.
TheschoolCAFco-ordinatormayneedtomakeareferraldirectlytootheragencies,orrequestthe
supportofRutlandCounty(orotherappropriate)CouncilLocalSupportTeam(LST).Theschoolwill
informtheLSTCo-ordinatorwhenaCAFisstarted,andwhenitisclosed,irrespectiveofwhetheror
notthereisanLSTworkerinvolvedwiththefamily.
adaptedJuly2015fromACESafeguardingPolicyforallschools
page 18
anadult
v the child or young person wishes to complain about the manner that they have been
restrained
v theparent/carerofthechildoryoungpersonmakesacomplaintonbehalfofthechild
oryoungpersonabouttheuseoftherestrictivephysicalintervention
v the referral to the local children’s services and the LADO is managed by the person
responsibleformanagingallegationsagainststaffwithintheschool
ChildinNeed–Section17oftheChildrenAct1989:
A‘ChildinNeed’referralshouldbeconsideredwheretheneedsofthechildareunlikelytobemet
underaCAF,suchasachildwithcomplexdisabilities,whenasocialworkledassessmentisrequired.
Section 17 of the Children Act says that an assessment for services should be undertaken by the
LocalAuthorityinthefollowingcircumstances:
v child(ren)areunlikelytoachieveormaintain,ortohaveopportunitytoachieveormaintain
areasonablestandardofhealthordevelopment,withouttheprovisionofservicesbyalocal
authority
v their health or development is likely to be impaired, or further impaired without the
provisionofsuchservices
v theyaredisabled
IftheDSLconsidersthatthewelfareconcernsindicatethata‘ChildinNeed’referralisappropriate,
he/she will speak with parents / young person and obtain their consent for referral to the First
Response Team (or other appropriate Children Service Care Team) to request an assessment. If
parents refuse to give consent, but the child’s needs are not being met, the DSL will discuss the
issueswiththeFRT.AppropriateschoolstaffshouldbeinvitedtoparticipateinChildinNeed(CIN)
meetings convened by Children’s Social Care when children are deemed to require section 17
services.Somechildrenin‘acuteneed’mayrequireChildinNeedSection17support.Thiscould
includechildrenwhoselfharmordiscloseanintenttocommitsuicide.
ChildProtection
Section47oftheChildrenAct1989saystheLocalAuthorityhasastatutorydutytoinvestigatewhen
there is reasonable cause to suspect that a child is suffering, or is likely to suffer, significant harm
due to the actions or inactions of others. Staff from The Shires at Oakham do not investigate
whetherachildhasbeenabused.ThisisthedutyofSocialworkersfromtheSafeguardingteamand
thepolice.Educationstaffreferreasonableconcernswhichindicatethatachildmaybeatriskof
significantharm.
It is the ‘significant harm’ threshold that justifies statutory intervention into family life. A
professionalmakingachildprotectionreferralunders47mustthereforeprovideinformationwhich
clearlyoutlinesthatachildissufferingorlikelytosuffersignificantharm.Itisnotpossibletorelyon
oneabsolutecriterionwhenjudgingwhatconstitutessignificantharm.Considerationoftheseverity
of ill-treatment may include the extent of the harm suffered, the context withinwhich it occurred
anditsduration.Significantharmmayalsoarisefromacombinationofsignificanteventswhichare
both acute and long standing and which may impair the child’s physical, psychological and social
development.
In order to both understand and evidence ‘significant harm’, it is necessary to consider the family
context,togetherwiththechild’sdevelopmentwithintheirwidersocialandculturalenvironment.It
isalsonecessarytoconsideranyspecialneeds,e.g.medicalcondition,communicationdifficultiesor
disabilitythatmayaffectthechild’sdevelopmentandcarewithinthefamily.Thenatureofharm,in
terms of ill-treatment or failure to provide adequate care also needs consideration alongside the
impactonthechild’shealthanddevelopmentandtheadequacyofcareprovided.
adaptedJuly2015fromACESafeguardingPolicyforallschools
page 19
Dutiesasanemployerandanemployee
Thispartofthepolicyisaboutmanagingcasesofallegationsthatmightindicateapersonwhowould
poseariskofharmiftheycontinuetoworkinregularorclosecontactwithchildrenintheirpresent
position, or in any capacity. It should be used in respect of all cases in which it is alleged that a
teacherormemberofstaff(includingvolunteers)inaschoolthatprovideseducationforchildren
under18yearsofagehas:-
v behavedinawaythathasharmedachild,ormayhaveharmedachild
v possiblycommittedacriminaloffenceagainstorrelatedtoachild,or
v behavedtowardsachildorchildreninawaythatindicatesheorshewouldposearisk
ofharmiftheyworkregularlyorcloselywithchildren
We are aware of the possibility of allegations being made against members of staff or volunteers
that are working with or may come into contact with children and young people at The Shires at
Oakham.Suchallegationsareusuallythatsomekindofabusehastakenplace.Theycanbemade
bychildrenandyoungpeopleorotherconcernedadults.Ifanallegationismade,thememberof
staff receiving the allegation will immediately inform the DSL or the Deputy DSL if the DSL is not
present
TheDSLortheDeputyDSLonallsuchoccasionswillconsultwiththeDirectorofCareandEducation
(unless they are absent) and follow the procedures of the LSCB Protection Procedures, and will
inform the Local Authority Designated Officer. If the allegation is against any DSL the person
reporting the allegation should go directly to the Director of Care and Education. If the allegation
made concerns the Director of Care and Education, the person receiving the allegation will
immediately contact Graham McEwan (Assistant Director - Education) 01204 558038 who will
consulttheLADOasabove,withoutnotifyingtheDirectorofCareandEducationfirst
WhosoevercontactstheLADO(at2or3above)willdiscussthenatureoftheallegationsinorderfor
appropriate action to be taken. This may constitute an initial evaluation meeting or strategy
discussiondependingontheallegationbeingmade.AcornDSLandDirectorofCareandEducation
willalso:-
v considerthesafeguardingarrangementsofthechildoryoungpersontoensuretheyarenot
incontactwiththeallegedabuser
v contacttheparentsorcarersofthechild/youngpersonifadvisedtodosobytheLADO
v consider the rights of the staff member for a fair and equal process of investigation and
providesupport
v ensure that the appropriate disciplinary procedure is followed, including whether
suspendingamemberofstafffromworkuntiltheoutcomeofanyinvestigationisdeemed
necessaryi.e.wherethereiscausetosuspectachildorotherchildrenattheschoolis/areat
riskofharmorthecaseissoseriousthatitmightbegroundsfordismissal
v act on any decision made in any Section 47 strategy meeting - The decision of the
strategy/Joint evaluation meeting could be: investigation by children’s social care, police
adaptedJuly2015fromACESafeguardingPolicyforallschools
page 20
IfstaffhavesignificantconcernsaboutanychildtheymustmakethemknowntotheDesignatedor
Deputy Designated Safeguarding Leads without delay in accordance with reporting and recording
procedures.
6.ManagingAllegationsagainstStaff
7.
PromotingGoodBehaviourandDiscipline
The use of physical intervention should, wherever possible, be avoided. It should only be used to
manageachildoryoungperson’sbehaviourifitisnecessarytopreventpersonalinjurytothechild,
otherchildrenoranadult,topreventseriousdamagetopropertyorinwhatwouldreasonablybe
regardedasexceptionalcircumstances.Whenphysicalinterventionisuseditshouldbeundertaken
in such a way that maintains the safety and dignity of all concerned. The scale and nature of any
physicalinterventionmustbeproportionatetoboththebehaviouroftheindividualtobecontrolled
andthenatureoftheharmtheymaycause.
The Shires at Oakham accepts the definition of reasonable force: - “Reasonable force uses the
minimum degree of force necessary for the shortest period of time to prevent a pupil harming
him/herself,othersorproperty”.
adaptedJuly2015fromACESafeguardingPolicyforallschools
page 21
investigation if there is a criminal element to the allegation, single agency investigation
completedbytheschoolwhichshouldinvolvetheSeniorHRadvisorfortheSchool
v inform the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) where a member of staff has been
disciplined or dismissed as a result of the allegations founded, or would have been if they
haveresigned
v ensurethataclearcomprehensivesummaryoftheallegation,detailsoftheallegationwas
followedupandresolved,andanoteofanyactiontakenanddecisionsreached,iskepton
theconfidentialpersonalfileoftheaccusedandacopyprovidedtothepersonconcerned
ForfurtherdetailsseeAcorn’sManagingAllegationsagainstStaffPolicy.
Protectingyourselfagainstallegationsofabuse
‘Keeping children safe in education 2015’ says that all staff members should be aware of systems
within their school which support safeguarding and these should be explained to them as part of
staff induction. This includes the school’s staff behaviour policy (sometimes called a code of
conduct). The school’s code of conduct is set out in The Shires at Oakham Staff Handbook (and
basedon‘GuidanceforSaferworkingPracticeforAdultswhoworkwithchildrenandyoungpeople
in Education Settings’ March 2009). You should seek to keep your personal contact with children
underreviewandseektominimisetheriskofanysituationarisinginwhichmisunderstandingscan
occur.Thefollowingsensibleprecautionscanbetakenwhenworkingalonewithchildren:-
v workinaroomwherethereisaglasspanelinthedoororleavethedooropen
v makesurethatotheradultsvisittheroomoccasionally
v avoidworkinginisolationwithchildrenunlessthoughthasbeengiventosafeguards
v nevergiveoutpersonalmobilephonenumbersorprivatee-mailaddresses
v donotgivepupilsliftshomeinyourcar(unlessthishasbeenspecificallyagreedbysenior
management)
v donotarrangetomeetpupilsoutsideofschoolactivities
v never‘befriend’orchattopupils/studentsonsocialnetworksites
Under the Sexual Offences Act 2003 it is a criminal offence for anyone working in an education
settingtohaveasexualrelationshipwithapupilorstudentevenwhenthepupil/studentisoverthe
ageofconsentbutunder18yearsofage.Itisalsoanoffenceunderthe2003actforapersonwho
hastheresponsibilityofcareforanadultwithamentaldisordertohaveasexualrelationshipwith
thatperson.
TheShiresatOakhamsupportsandendorsesthelegalpositionthatitisunlawfultouseforceasa
punishmentandbelievesreasonableforceshouldnotbeusedasamethodofcompliance.
The 1996 Education Act (Section 55OA) and subsequently, Section 93 of the 2006 Education and
InspectionsAct(April1st2007),andreinforcedintheDfEGuidance,TheUseofForcetoControlor
RestrainPupils(2010,2011and2012)allstipulatethatreasonableforcemaybeusedtopreventa
pupilfromdoing,orcontinuingtodoanyofthefollowing:-
v preventinghim/herselffromhurtingthemselves,orplacingthemselvesatrisk
v preventingchildrenandyoungpeoplefromhurtingothers
v behaviourleadingtoseriousdamagetoproperty
v engaging in any behaviour prejudicial to maintaining good order and discipline at the
schooloramonganyofitschildrenandyoungpeople,whetherthebehaviouroccursina
classroomduringateachingsessionorelsewherewithinschool(thisincludesauthorised
out-of-schoolactivities)
ThestaffatTheShiresatOakhamaretrainedtouseMAPAwhichisaccreditedbyBILD.
8.InformationSharingandConfidentiality
BaseduponGovernmentguidance‘InformationSharing:GuidanceforPractitionersandManagers’,
DfE2008/2015,TheShiresatOakhamwillensurethatdataregardingchildreniscorrectlystoredand
managed in line with these principles defined in the 2008 guidance, and that we will take all
appropriateactionregardingthesharingofinformationasfollows:-
v recognise that legislation (Data Protection Act) is not a barrier to sharing information
aboutconcerns
v behonestandopenwiththeperson(betheyachildoranadult)aboutwhy,what,how
andwithwhominformationwillbeshared
v seekadvicewhenweareindoubt,withoutdisclosingtheidentityoftheperson(bethey
achildoranadult)wherepossible
v shareinformationwithconsentwhereappropriateandrespectthewishesofthosewho
donotconsenttoshareconfidentialinformationwherepossible
v baseourinformationsharingdecisionsonconsiderationsofsafetyandwellbeing
v ensuretheinformationweshareisnecessary,proportionate,relevant,accurate,timely
andsecure
v keeparecordofouractions,decisions,andreasons
Werecognisethatallmattersrelatingtochildprotectionareconfidential.Confidentialityisanissue
thatneedstobeunderstoodbyallthoseworkingwithchildren,particularlyinthecontextofchild
protection. This is a complex area and involves consideration of a number of pieces of legislation.
Professionals can only work together to safeguard children if there is an exchange of relevant
information between them. This has been recognised in principle by the courts. However, any
disclosure of personal information to others, including children’s social care departments, must
alwayshaveregardtobothcommonandstatutelaw.
Normally,personalinformationshouldonlybedisclosedtothirdparties(includingotheragencies)
withtheconsentofthesubjectofthatinformation(DataProtectionAct1998EuropeanConvention
adaptedJuly2015fromACESafeguardingPolicyforallschools
page 22
Confidentiality
onHumanRights,Article8).Whereverpossible,consentshouldbeobtainedbeforesharingpersonal
information with third parties. In some circumstances, however, consent may not be possible or
desirablebutthesafetyandwelfareofthechilddictatethattheinformationshouldbeshared.
The law requires the disclosure of confidential information necessary to safeguard a child or
children. Under Section 47 of the Children Act 1989 statutory agencies have a duty to co-operate.
Therefore,ifthePoliceorSocialCare/ServicesareconductingaSection47investigationunderthe
1989ChildrenAct,staffmustsharerequestedinformationrelevanttotheinvestigation.Legaladvice
shouldbesoughtifindoubtfromtheCountyLegalServicesDepartment.
Whenchildrentransfertoanewschoolorcollegeatanytimeotherthankeytransitionpoints(e.g.
movetoprimaryorhighschool),itmaybenecessarytoinformotherpartners.
TheDirectorofCareandEducationorDSLwilldisclosepersonalinformationaboutapupiltoother
membersofstaffonaneedtoknowbasisonly.Allstaffmustbeawarethattheyhaveaprofessional
responsibilitytoshareinformationwithotheragenciesinordertosafeguardchildren.Allstaffmust
be aware that they cannot promise a child to keep secrets which might compromise the child’s
safetyorwell-being,orthatofanother;andwewillalwaysundertaketoshareourintentiontorefer
a child to the local children’s services and with their parents/carers, unless to do so could put the
childatgreaterriskofharm,orimpedeacriminalinvestigation.Ifindoubt,wewillconsultwiththe
relevantLSCB.
9.PowerandPositionofTrust
The Shires at Oakham acknowledges all adults working with children and young people are in
positionsoftrustinrelationtothechildrenandyoungpeopleintheircare.Arelationshipoftrust
canbedescribedwhereonepartyisinapositionofpowerorinfluenceovertheotherbyvirtueof
theirworkorthenatureoftheiractivity.Allstaffmustrecognisethepowerthiscangivethemover
thosetheycareforandtheresponsibilitytheymustexerciseasaconsequenceofthisrelationship.
Please see ‘Guidance for Safer Working Practice for Adults who Work with Children and Young
PeopleinEducationSettings’,DCSFMarch2009.
All staff must uphold public trust in the teaching profession and maintain high standards of ethics
andbehaviour,withinandoutsideschool,by:
v treatingpupilswithdignity,buildingrelationshipsrootedinmutualrespect,andatalltimes
observingproperboundariesappropriatetothememberofstaff’sprofessionalposition
v having regard for the need to safeguard pupils’ well-being, in accordance with statutory
provisions
The Shires at Oakham recognises and understands that effective safeguarding systems are child
centred. Children and young people in our school are clear what they want from an effective
safeguarding system, we know this via our regular children and young people questionnaire
feedback. All of our children want to be respected, their views to be heard, to have stable
relationshipswithprofessionalsbuiltontrustandforconsistentsupportprovidedfortheirindividual
needs.Thisguidesthebehaviourofourstaff.Anyoneworkingwithchildrenshouldseeandspeakto
the child, listen to what they say, take their views seriously, and work with them collaboratively
whendecidinghowtosupporttheirneeds.Achild-centredapproachissupportedby:
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10.ChildCentredApproach
v the Equality Act 2010 which puts a responsibility on public authorities to have due
regardtotheneedtoeliminatediscriminationandpromoteequalityofopportunity.No
childorgroupofchildrenmustbetreatedanylessfavourablythanothersinbeingable
toaccesseffectiveserviceswhichmeettheirparticularneeds;and
v the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC). This is an
internationalagreementthatprotectstherightsofchildrenandprovidesachild-centred
frameworkforthedevelopmentofservicestochildren
AtTheShiresatOakhamweensurethatabroadandbalancedPSHEeducationcurriculumistaught.
This includes enabling children and young people to develop self- awareness, positive self-esteem
andconfidence,encouragingthemto:-
v keepthemselvesandotherssafe
v stayashealthyaspossible
v haveworthwhileandfulfillingrelationships
v respectthedifferencesbetweenpeople
v developindependenceandresponsibility
v playanactiveroleasmembersofademocraticsociety
v makethemostoftheirownabilitiesandthoseofothers
v behave in a socially and morally acceptable way including towards authority and each
other
v tobecomeinvolvedinthelifeoftheircommunity
v toknowaboutdemocracyandhowtobeanactivecitizen
v toknowabouteconomicwellbeing
Pleaserefertotheschool’sCurriculumStatementandPSHEeducationpolicy
11.WhistleBlowing
Whistle blowing is the mechanism by which adults can voice their concerns, made in good faith,
withoutfearofrepercussion.TheShiresatOakhamhasaclearandaccessibleWhistleBlowingPolicy
that meets the terms of the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998. Adults who use whistleblowing
procedurearemadeawarethattheiremploymentrightsareprotected.
Staffmustacknowledgetheirindividualresponsibilitytobringmattersofconcerntotheattentionof
senior management and/or relevant agencies. Although this can be difficult this is particularly
important where the welfare of children may be at risk. Through our staff induction process we
provideproceduresonhowstaffcanimplementtheWhistleBlowingPolicy.Staffareawareoftheir
dutytoraiseconcernsabouttheattitudeandactionsofcolleagueswheretheseareinappropriateor
unsuitable.Staffarerequiredtoapproachtheirimmediatemanagerinthefirstinstance,ifnecessary
thememberofstaffshouldspeaktotheDSLforEducation-GrahamMcewan:01204558038.
Staffwillbeprotectedfromharassmentorvictimisation,andnoactionwillbetakenagainststaffif
the concern proves to be unfounded and was raised in good faith. Malicious allegations may be
consideredasadisciplinaryoffence.
When new staff, volunteers or regular visitors join our school they will be informed of the
safeguardingarrangementsinplace.Theywillbegivenacopyofourschool’sSafeguardingPolicy
andtoldwhotheDSLanddeputyforsafeguardingis.Everynewmemberofstafforvolunteerwill
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12.InductionandTraining
haveaninductionperiodthatwillincludeessentialsafeguardinginformation.Thisprogrammewill
includebasicsafeguardinginformationrelatingto,signsandsymptomsofabuse,howtomanagea
disclosurefromachild,howtorecordanyissuesofconfidentiality.Aftertheinductionallstaffwill
haveaclearunderstandingofthedefinitionofemotional,physical,sexualandneglectfulchildabuse
andtherisksofchildsexualexploitation.NewstaffwillbemadeawareoftheRutlandSafeguarding
ChildrenBoardprocedures.
New staff who have not had any Child Protection/Safeguarding training will be provided with
safeguardingtraining(level1orequivalent)withintheirfirst6monthsinpost.TheLevel1training
will be updated every 3 years and recorded. The Designated and Deputy DSLs will attend Rutland
Safeguarding Board Courses at Level 2 and above at least every 2 years in order to maintain
continuousprofessionaldevelopmentandcomplywithstatutoryguidanceandtheRutlandtraining
strategy.
Allregularvisitorsandvolunteerstoourschoolwillbegivenasetofoursafeguardingprocedures;
they will be informed of whom our SDL and Deputy SDL are. They will also be informed with
reference recording and reporting procedures. Acorn Care and Education will also undertake
appropriatetrainingtoensuretheyareabletocarryouttheirdutytosafeguardallofthechildrenat
ourschoolsandhomes.WeactivelyencourageallofourstaffatTheShiresatOakhamtokeepupto
date with the most recent local and national Safeguarding advice and guidance. This can be
accessedviaall(withspecificfocusonRutlandLSCBwebsite)LSCBwebsitesineachlocality.
WewillensurethattheDirectorofCareandEducationandatleastoneothermemberofstaffhave
completedappropriatesaferrecruitmenttraining,recognisedbytheDfE.AtalltimestheTeaching
ManagerandAcornCareandEducationwillensurethatsaferrecruitmentpracticesandprocedures
arefollowedinaccordancewiththerequirementsof‘KeepingChildrenSafeinEducationApril2015’.
We will ensure that at least one member of any interview panel is appropriately trained in safer
recruitment.
TheShiresatOakhamwillusetherecruitmentandselectionprocesstodeterandrejectunsuitable
candidates.Werequireevidenceoforiginalacademiccertificates.Wedonotaccepttestimonials
andinsistontakingupreferencespriortointerviewandverifythereferencesaccordingly.Wewill
questionthecontentsofapplicationforme.g.breaksinemploymenthistory(includingoverseas),if
weareunclearaboutthem.WewillundertakeenhancedDisclosureandBarringServicechecksand
useanyothermeansofensuringwearerecruitingandselectingthemostsuitablepeopletowork
withourchildren.Undernocircumstanceswillweconsiderofferingemploymenttoanyonewhois
barred from working in schools under Section 142 of the Education Act 2002. Identity checks will
includeevidenceofrighttoworkintheUKandteacherswillbesubjecttoprohibitionfromteaching
checks.
We will maintain a Single Central Register of all safer recruitment checks carried out in line with
statutoryrequirementsandissignedoffonatermlybasisbytheDirectorofCareandEducation.Any
staffmember,volunteerorgovernorwhobecomesthesubjectofapoliceinvestigationinrelationto
physical or sexual offences against adults or children, or are charged with such a criminal offence,
must inform the head teacher. Staff must disclose any convictions, cautions, court orders,
reprimandsandwarningswhichmayaffecttheirsuitabilitytoworkwithchildrenwhetherreceived
before, or during their employment at the school. The Principal will discuss any potential
safeguarding matters with the LADO and any required action will be agreed. Any staff member,
volunteeror governor whoseownchildrenbecomesubjecttochildprotectioninvestigationsmust
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13.SaferRecruitment
The Shires at Oakham recognise that safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children is a key
duty and requires effective joint working between agencies and professionals. When a child goes
missingorrunsawaytheyareatrisk.Safeguardingchildrenthereforeincludesprotectingthemfrom
this risk. The Shires at Oakham refers to the definitions set out by the police force in April 2013.
Theseare:-
v missing: anyone whose whereabouts cannot be established and where the
circumstances are out of character, or the context suggests the person may be the
subjectofcrimeoratriskofharmtothemselvesoranother;and
v absent:apersonnotataplacewheretheyareexpectedorrequiredtobe
The police classification of a person as ‘missing’ or ‘absent’ will be based on on-going risk
assessment.Notethat‘absent’withinthisdefinitionwouldnotincludethosedefinedas“awayfrom
placement without authorisation” above: a child whose whereabouts are known would not be
treatedaseither‘missing’or‘absent’underthepolicedefinitions.
Acorn Care and Education has categories for absence, including authorised, unauthorised, missing
from home and missing from school. Each school and home will have preventative strategies, risk
assessments,debriefingwithchildrenandyoungpeoplewhenissuesoccurandasetprocedurefor
thesecircumstances.
PleaserefertoMissingfromschoolPolicyandprocedures.
15.Bullying
The Shires at Oakham acknowledges and recognises that under the Children Act 1989 bullying
incidents should be addressed as a child protection concern when there is ‘reasonable cause to
suspect that a child is suffering, or likely to suffer significant harm’. Where this is the case, the
school staff should report their concerns to the relevant local authority Children’s Services team.
Even where safeguarding is not considered to be an issue, we may need to draw on a range of
externalservicestosupportthechildoryoungpersonwhoisexperiencingbullying,ortotackleany
underlying issue which has contributed to a child or young person engaging in bullying, (DfE
‘PreventingandTacklingBullying’,March2014).
Bullying can have a profound impact on emotional and mental health. We have an Anti-Bullying
policy setting out the respective rights and responsibilities of the young people and our staff in
preventinganddealingwithbullying.Staffraiseawarenessofbullyingthroughdevelopingaculture
inwhichrespectandconsiderationforothersisfundamental.Weencourageyoungpeopletoreport
bullying in the knowledge that it will be taken seriously. Staff are trained in conflict management
techniquestohelpthemboostayoungperson’sself-esteemandcreateapositiveenvironmentboth
of which we recognise as important factors in preventing young people from being bullied or
becomingbullies.
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informtheDirectorofCareandEducation.TheDirectorofCareandEducationwilldiscusswiththe
Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) in regard to procedures for dealing with allegations
againstPersonswhoworkinapositionoftrustwithchildren.Appropriateactionwillbeagreed.
PleaserefertotheShiresatOakhamSaferRecruitmentPolicy.
14.MissingChildren
School staff should apply intervention or disciplinary measures to children and young people to
showclearlythattheirbehaviouriswrong.Interventionordisciplinarymeasuresshouldbeapplied
fairly, consistently and reasonably taking into account any special educational needs or disabilities
thatthechildrenoryoungpeoplemayhaveandtakingintoaccounttheneedsofvulnerablechildren
andyoungpeople.Itisimportantthattheschoolconsidersthemotivationsbehindthebullyingand
whetheritrevealsanyconcernsforthesafetyoftheperpetrator.
PleasealsoseeAnti-BullyingPolicy.
Thegrowthofdifferentelectronicmediaineverydaylifeandaneverdevelopingvarietyofdevices
including PC’s, tablets, laptops, mobile phones, webcams etc. place an additional risk on our
children. Internet chat rooms, discussion forums or social networks can allbe used as a means of
contacting children and young people with a view to grooming them for inappropriate or abusive
relationships.Theanonymityoftheinternetallowsadults,oftenpretendingtobechildren,tohave
conversations with children and in some cases arrange to meet them. Access to abusive images is
not a ‘victimless’ act as it has already involved the abuse of children. The internet has become a
significanttoolinthedistributionofindecentphotographsofchildrenandshouldbeaconcerntoall
thoseworkingwithpupilsatthisschool.Pupilscanengageinorbeatargetofcyberbullyingusinga
rangeofmethodsincludingtextandinstantmessagingtoreachtheirtarget.Mobilephonesarealso
used to capture violent assaults of other children for circulation (happy slapping), or distributing
indecentimagesofchildren(e.g.sexting).
Thebestprotectionistomakepupilsawareofthedangersthroughcurriculumteachingparticularly
PSHEeducationandsexandrelationshipeducation.
ProtectionisPrevention
v softwareisinplacetominimiseaccessandtohighlightanyoneaccessinginappropriate
sitesorinformation
v pupilswillbeencouragedtodiscussopenlytheiruseoftechnologyandanythingwhich
makesthemfeeluncomfortable.(Ifthisresultsinchildprotectionconcernstheschool’s
DSLshouldbeinformedimmediately)
v pupils should not give out their personal details, phone numbers, schools, home
address,computerpasswordsetc.
v Pupils should adhere to the Shires at Oakham policy on mobile phones and E-Safety
policy
Thepolicewillbeinvolvedifthereisanycriminalelementtomisuseoftheinternet,phonesorany
otherformofelectronicmedia.
17.RiskAssessments
The Shires at Oakham will be expected to conduct regular risk assessments and maintain risk
registersinrespectofknownsafeguardingrisksbothsitespecificandchildspecificandthecontrol
measuresinplacetocontroltheserisks.EachofAcornCareandEducation’ssettingshasdifferences
inregardstothescopeofneedoftheyoungpeopleitaccommodates,thebuiltenvironmentandthe
locality.Forthisreasondifferentapproachesandcontrolmeasureswillbetakendependentonthe
setting. This is to ensure we are doing everything possible to assess, control and action any
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16.E-Safety
LearningfromSeriousCaseReviewscontinuestoidentifytheneedforimprovedrecordkeepingand
informationsharing,bothwithinandbetweenagencies.
Acorn Care and Education recognise that accurate and up-to-date record keeping is essential for a
numberofreasons:-
v ithelpstheschoolidentifycausesforconcernatanearlystage.Oftenitisonlywhena
number of seemingly minor issues are taken as a whole that a safeguarding or child
protectionconcernbecomesclear.
v ithelpstheschooltomonitorandmanageitssafeguardingpractices.
v ithelpstoevidencerobustandeffectivesafeguardingpracticeininspectionsandaudits.
v accurate and specific records are important where there are child protection and
safeguardingconcernse.g.achronologyofinformationgatheredandactiontaken.
v TheShiresatOakhamhasclearproceduresforreportingandrecordingchildprotection
concerns (please refer to the ‘Child Protection Record keeping procedures’ document).
Thisshouldbereadinconjunctionwith:
v WorkingTogethertoSafeguardChildren–March2015
v InformationSharing:GuidanceforpractitionersandManagers
Theproceduresgiveclearguidanceon:-
v recordingreports
v storingchildprotection(CP)files
v whohasaccesstoCPfilesandinformationsharing
v transferringCPFiles
v retentionofCPfiles
v auditingofCPfiles
Well-keptrecordsareessentialinsituationswhereitissuspectedorbelievedthatachildmaybeat
riskfromharm.
Recordsshould:-
v statewhowaspresent,time,dateandplace
v usethechild’swordswhereverpossible
v befactual/stateexactlywhatwassaid
differentiateclearlybetweenfact,opinion,interpretation,observationand/orallegation
v bewrittenininkandsignedbytherecorder
Recordsaboutchildprotectionorpertainingtowelfareconcernsorissues,includingCAFpaperwork,
willberetainedsecurelyandseparatelytothecurriculumrecordsofthechild.Aclear‘signpost’will
indicateinayoungperson’smainfilethataconfidentialreportisheldinaseparateChildProtection
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presenting risks. Thus promoting a safe, positive environment and safeguarding culture for all
concerned.
The Shires at Oakham should ensure the senior management review the risk register and make
amendments to the associated risk assessment at least quarterly. The risk register and pupil risk
assessments will be periodically reviewed and audited by Acorn Care and Education on an annual
basis.
18.RecordingandReporting
file.Ifthechildmovestoanotherschooloreducationsetting,theserecordswillbesuitablyredacted
inregardtotheidentificationofotherchildrenoradultsandsentinatimelyandsecuremannerto
theDesignatedSafeguardingPersonofthereceivingschoolorcollege.
‘Concern’Forms
Theseformsarecompletedbystaffwhenthereisaconcernor‘naggingdoubt’aboutanyaspectofa
child’sgeneralwelfare.(Examplesmayincludechangesinachild’sbehaviour,acommentoverheard
inaconversation,initialconcernsaroundattendanceorchangesineatinghabits).Thedoubtmayor
may not be related to a Child Protection or Safeguarding issue. These forms are completed by a
memberofstaffandthenreturnedtotheDSLorDeputyDSL.TheDSL/DSLwillreviewtheformto
decide what action is to be taken i.e. to be managed internally or to take other action including
making a referral to the relevant Children’s Services Team. If it is decided that the issue can be
managedinternallytheDSL/DeputyDSLwillpasstheformtothePastoralTeamandaplanofaction
willbeagreed.
AttendanceatChildProtectionConferences
The DSL or their deputy will be expected to attend the initial Child Protection Conference and
Reviews,andprovideawrittenreport.AsuggestedtemplateforthisreportisavailableonRutland
Education Safeguarding Advice website. Parents should be informed of what is in the report as
thereshouldbenosurprisesabouttheinformationsharedatConference.
IfachildismadesubjecttoaChildProtectionPlanitmaybemorerelevantfortheclassteacheror
head of year to attend the subsequent core group meetings and they will be given appropriate
supportaroundsafeguardingissuesbytheDSL.IfachildismadesubjecttoaChildProtectionPlan
this will be clearly signposted in his/her main file but confidential records will not be kept in the
mainfile,thesewillbesecurelystoredseparately.
19.EvaluationandMonitoring
The Shires at Oakham will monitor and evaluate policies, practices and procedures in relation to
safeguarding with the school on a regular basis to ensure it keeps current with the most modern
guidance and legislation. The Shires at Oakham requires safeguarding as a regular item on the
agendaofSeniorManagementTeamsmeetings,thereforebeingattheforefrontofseniormanagers
thinking. In these meetings safeguarding training, the risk assessment and risk register should be
reviewedandupdatedwherenecessary.
To ensure the school responds positively to advice regarding safeguarding concerns and adapt its
practiceandproceduresaccordingly,monthlyreportsarerequestedtobesentoutlininganyrecent
concernsorwelfareissues.TheDSL(CareorEducation)willthenchoosethelevelofintervention
andsupportrequiredtofurthersupporttheestablishment.
The Acorn Care and Education central team make regular visits to the organisations and work
through supporting development as documented in the School Development Plan. Annual
SafeguardingAuditsarecarriedoutinternallyineachAcornCareandEducationsettingbytheSenior
DesignatedPersonandManagementTeam.Thesearethenvalidatedbyanexternalconsultantor
theappropriateDSL.Eachschoolisexpectedtorespondtoanyrecommendations.
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