Responding to Concerns
Concerns of Abuse or Neglect
The best interests of the children will always be our priority. As such, there are times we will need to record, monitor, and share information with other agencies. We will share concerns about our children with the child’s parents/carers unless we have reason to believe that such a move would not be in the child’s best interest.
When concerns arise, the schools will act swiftly and may signpost to other specialised services. This early intervention is to prevent more serious problems occurring later. Therefore, whilst we do not want to worry you, we will contact Family Connect if we have any reason to believe that a child may be at risk of suffering abuse or neglect.
Parents are normally our first point of contact, and if a suspicion of abuse is recorded, parents will be informed; we will support parents and ensure we work in collaboration with them to protect children.
Working with parents to prevent abuse is our primary aim and only when that has failed or in an emergency will a referral be made to Family Connect.
When a referral is made to Family Connect parents will be notified beforehand, except when guidance from social care or the police does not allow this.
If you have any concerns about the safety or wellbeing of a child, please speak to one of our Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSLs). Our DSLs are specially trained to deal with safeguarding concerns and are here to help support children and families. Their names and photos are shown below for your reference.
If you feel unable to speak with a member of the team, you can also use one of the following contacts or documents to voice your concerns…
- Family Connect 01952 385 385
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Police: telephone 999