Coten End Primary School
Safeguarding
SAFEGUARDING
At Coten End Primary School, we are wholly committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and we believe that keeping children safe is everyone’s business.
We recognise it is our moral and statutory responsibility to safeguard and promote the welfare of all children. We endeavour to provide a safe and welcoming environment where children are respected and valued. We are alert to the signs of abuse and neglect and follow our procedures to ensure that children receive effective support and protection. School staff are particularly important as they are in a position to identify concerns early, provide help for children and prevent concerns from escalating.
Under the Education Act 2002 (Section 175 for maintained schools/Section 157 for academies/free/independent schools), schools must make arrangements to safeguard and promote the welfare of children. Parents/carers should know that the law (Children Act 1989) requires all school staff to pass on information which gives rise to a concern about a child’s welfare, including risk from neglect, physical, emotional or sexual abuse. Staff will seek, in general, to discuss any concerns with the parent/carer and discuss the need to make a referral to Children’s Social Care if that is considered necessary. This will only be done where such discussion will not place the child at increased risk of significant harm or cause undue delay. The school will seek advice from Children’s Social Care when they have reasonable cause to suspect a child may be suffering or likely to suffer significant harm. Occasionally, concerns are passed on which are later found to be unfounded. Parents/carers will appreciate that the school’s Designated Safeguarding Lead carries out their responsibilities in accordance with the law and acts in the best interests of all children.
To view our safeguarding policies, please click here.
HELPFUL SAFEGUARDING WEBSITES
Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre
Drug information
Family Information Service
National Domestic Violence Helpline
Support Line
Young Carers
Emotional and Mental Health
The links below provide guidance and details of how to access support, and are regularly updated with advice on present situations.
Young Minds– mental Health support
CW RISE- local mental health services
Childline- advice on many topics, free 24/7 support line
NHS Every Mind Matters- mental health and self-care for young people
GOVUK – easy read guide to looking after your feelings and body during COVID-19