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Identifying and reporting abuse and neglect policy

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1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that all staff at Turning Point Leeds are aware of their responsibilities in identifying and reporting cases of abuse and neglect. This policy outlines the procedures to be followed to protect and safeguard the well-being of all students.

 

2. Scope

This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, and contractors at Turning Point Leeds. It covers all forms of abuse and neglect, including physical, emotional, sexual, and financial abuse, as well as neglect and exploitation.

 

3. Definitions

  • Abuse: A violation of an individual's human and civil rights by any other person or persons. This can include physical, emotional, sexual, and financial abuse.

  • Neglect: The persistent failure to meet a child's basic physical and/or psychological needs, likely to result in the serious impairment of the child's health or development.

  • Safeguarding: Protecting children from maltreatment, preventing impairment of children's health or development, ensuring children grow up with the provision of safe and effective care.

 

4. Identifying abuse and neglect

Physical abuse

  • Unexplained bruises or injuries

  • Injuries in unusual places or patterns

  • Frequent and unexplained absences from school

Emotional abuse

  • Excessive withdrawal or fearfulness

  • Extreme behaviors (e.g., overly compliant or aggressive)

  • Developmental delays

Sexual abuse

  • Age-inappropriate sexual behaviors or knowledge

  • Difficulty walking or sitting

  • Reports of nightmares or bedwetting

Neglect

  • Poor hygiene and appearance

  • Unattended medical needs

  • Consistent lack of supervision

Financial abuse (for older students)

  • Unexplained loss of money or possessions

  • Sudden changes in financial situations

 

5. Reporting procedures

Step 1: Immediate action

  • Ensure Safety: Make sure the child is safe from immediate harm. If the child is in immediate danger, contact emergency services.

  • Listen and Reassure: Listen to the child, take their concerns seriously, and reassure them they did the right thing by telling you.

Step 2: Record details

  • Document information: Write down all details as soon as possible, including dates, times, and names of those involved. Use the exact words spoken by the child.

  • Maintain confidentiality: Keep the information confidential and only share it with those who need to know.

Step 3: Reporting

  • Inform the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): Report the incident to the Headteacher immediately. If the Headteacher is not available contact the business manager. 

  • Complete a safeguarding report form: Fill out the safeguarding report form with all necessary details and submit it to the DSL.

Step 4: Follow-up

  • DSL actions: The DSL will assess the situation and determine the appropriate action, which may include contacting social services or the police.

  • Support for the child: Provide ongoing support to the child, ensuring they feel safe and supported throughout the process.

  • Monitoring: Keep a record of the report and any actions taken. Monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.

 

6. Roles and Responsibilities

All Staff

  • Be vigilant and aware of signs of abuse and neglect.

  • Report any concerns immediately to the DSL.

  • Follow the procedures outlined in this policy.

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

  • Take the lead in dealing with safeguarding issues.

  • Ensure proper documentation and reporting of incidents.

  • Liaise with external agencies as necessary.

  • Provide support and guidance to staff.

Headteacher

  • Ensure the implementation of this policy.

  • Support the DSL in their role.

  • Ensure all staff receive appropriate training.

 

7. Training

  • Initial training: All staff will receive safeguarding training as part of their induction.

  • Ongoing training: Regular updates and refresher training will be provided to ensure all staff are aware of current safeguarding practices and procedures.

 

8. Monitoring and review

  • Regular review: This policy will be reviewed annually or following any significant incidents or changes in legislation.

  • Feedback and improvement: Feedback from staff, students, and external agencies will be used to improve the policy and procedures.

 

9. Confidentiality and information sharing

  • Confidentiality: All information regarding a safeguarding concern must be kept confidential and shared only with those who need to know.

  • Information sharing: When necessary, information will be shared with external agencies to ensure the safety and well-being of the child, in accordance with GDPR guidelines.

 

10. Contact information

  • Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): Ryan Bradshaw

  • Deputy DSL: Doug Mulholland 

  • Local Authority Safeguarding Team: Leeds County Council 

  • Police (Non-Emergency): 111

  • Emergency Services: 999

 

Written: August 2024 

Next review: August 2025 

 

Ryan Bradshaw: Headteacher 

 

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