What is Safeguarding?

Safeguarding is not only Child Protection, that is just one critical part. Safeguarding is holistic, it is about prevention and protection for everyone.

For children/young people it’s about preventing and protecting them from maltreatment or any impairment to their health or development. Supporting them in having the best outcomes possible.

For organisations and workforces, in addition to preventing them from risks of failing to identify a child/young person at risk of or suffering from adversity and/or abuse; safeguarding is about preventing and protecting organisations from exposing children/young people to vulnerable situations, environments, services and/or personnel that may be a risk to their safety.

Safeguarding is about best practice for all, as well as being compliant with legislation. It’s making certain risks are prevented and management strategies are in place should any risks occur.

Think of it as a Pie! We love our Pies!

The Baker (The Organisation)

The organisation and workforce are Baker's.

The Baker's are responsible for making sure the pie looks and tastes great but is also safe to eat.

They need to make certain the pie goes to the right person, is baked with the right ingredients, baked in the right way and made within a safe and healthy environment.

The Customer (The Children and Families)

Are the lucky pie eaters!

They choose the Baker, the pie that's in their budget and trust that the pie won't make them ill.

When they find their favourite pie, they tell others and come back for more.

Without them, the Baker just has a tray full of pies!

7 Principles of Safeguarding - The 7 Ps

To help understand effective safeguarding, we've identified the 7 Principles of Safeguarding. There are various elements to these principles. However, all principles should be aligned to and underpin any adopted safeguarding solutions. Independently safeguarding solutions can strengthen key areas of practice, collectively they create a Safeguarding Culture.

1. Promises

2. People

Zero tolerance to child abuse.
Commitment to safeguarding.
Compliance with legislation and sector standards.
Creating a safeguarding culture.

Safeguarding is driven by leadership and governance.
Safer Recruitment - Risk assessments and police screening.
The child's voice is captured and listened to.
Safeguarding is a shared responsibility.

3. Policies

There is a Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy reflecting child safe expectations.
Identify and mitigate any safeguarding risks.
Workforce sign a Safeguarding Commitment Statement.

4. Practice

5. Prevention

Is child-centred.
There's safeguarding Induction and Training.
There's a Code of Conduct.
Position Descriptions reflect safeguarding responsibilities.

6. Protection

Safeguarding is across all physical and online environments.
Risks are assessed and mitigated.
The organisation understands its safeguarding role and responsibilities, including primary prevention and early intervention.

7. Partnerships

Safeguarding Staff and Structures are in place.
There's Safeguarding Incident Management Systems for -
Child welfare concerns; and
Allegations against staff.
Safeguarding Incident Forms record all concerns.
There are Case Escalation Procedures.

A working with, not doing to approach is adopted....
All stakeholders are involved e.g. children, staff and partners.
Inclusivity across diversity is promoted and reflected.
Working together with sector and community partners.
Using expert safeguarding support when needed or unsure.