Safeguarding summary

Child Safeguarding and Protection

Please refer to full safeguarding policy for further information

• The safety and wellbeing of children is of paramount importance. It is everyone’s responsibility to ensure the welfare and safety of all children both inside and outside of The Springfield Project

• Abuse is any action or inaction which significantly harms the physical and/or emotional development of a child. A child may be abused by parents, other relatives or carers, professionals and other children.

• Concerns around children may fall into any of the four main categories of physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse or neglect.                                                                          
• Staff and volunteers should use discretion when a child is upset and let the child take the lead. Not all children want to be comforted. This must be in full view of everyone else and should only be necessary with young children.

• Every member of staff or volunteer should record, date and sign any suspicions with regard to non accidental injuries, and report to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).

What to do if a child discloses they are being abused

• Keep eye contact with the child at their level.
• Listen carefully to what the child is saying.
• Do not panic or show any feelings other than concern.
• Believe the child – children rarely lie about abuse.
• Reassure the child that what has happened to them was not their fault but do not pass comment on the abuser.
• Tell the child what you are going to do and say you will let them know what will happen next.
• Write down exactly what they said as soon as possible to keep the account accurate. Date and sign it and pass it on to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (in person) immediately.

Designated Child Safeguarding Leads