You might become concerned because:
- You see an injury that cannot be explained
- A child may want to tell you about what is happening to him / her
- Another person may express concern for a child’s well being
- You may notice significant changes in the way a child behaves in school
What to do:
- If you think a child is in danger of immediate, significant harm - ring the POLICE (999) now!
- Listen non judgmentally to a child disclosure
- Ask open questions to clarify but not to investigate
- Do not promise confidentiality, explain you may need to talk to someone else
- Reassure the child but avoid physical contact
- Let the Designated Safeguarding Lead DSL (Giles Kolter) or his deputies know (Mr Cox & Mrs Wilson)
- If these people aren't available ring the NSPCC, West Sussex I.F.D. (numbers below)
- Don’t investigate. Listen to the child and then record in writing
- Avoid judgements or opinions
- If in doubt ask for advice and report things immediately
USEFUL NUMBERS
NSPCC HELPLINE: 0808 800 5000
West Sussex Social Services Referrals I.F.D: 01403 229900
DSL St Peter's CE Primary Sch: 01403 864365 - head@stpeterscowfold.uk
