At Abbotswood Junior School we believe that the safeguarding and protection of the welfare of our children is our top priority and is everyone's responsibility. Everyone who works with and comes into contact with children and their families has a safeguarding role. In every situation and at all times, adults should consider what is in the best interests of the child.

We ensure a culture of safeguarding is created in our school by training all staff to identify when children and families are in vulnerable positions so that we can provide support at the earliest opportunity.  All staff and volunteers at Abbotswood receive safeguarding induction to ensure that they understand the school's policies and procedures.  Staff receive regular safeguarding training and updates.  As part of the school code of conduct policy, there is information about low level concerns which provides guidance for staff about how to raise concerns about inappropriate adult behaviour. This creates an open and transparent school culture.      

Reporting a concern

The school has one Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and six Deputy Designated Safeguarding Leads (DDSLs). A DSL or DDSL is available at all times.  All staff know how to report concerns and are aware of the signs of abuse and neglect to look out for. Any concerns are always addressed and/or investigated by the DSL or DDSLs.

If you become concerned about the welfare of a child in the school, please contact the school's Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) or one of the Deputy Designated Safeguarding Leads (DDSLs) on 023 8086 3159.                                                                                       

Mr Glenn Moore DSL (Designated Safeguarding Lead)	Mrs Lucy Howard Deputy DSL	Mrs Sophie Vigar Deputy DSL
Miss Cat Gonzalez Deputy DSL	Mr Luke McCoy Deputy DSL	Mrs Georgie Taylor Deputy DSL
Mr George Adams Deputy DSL

We have a member of the Governing Body who is responsible for supporting the school with safeguarding.  The nominated safeguarding and child protection governor for the school is Mrs Jane Withers.   

Concerned about someone working with children?

If you have a concern about a member of staff working with children or about how the school manages child protection issues, please contact the Local Area Designated Officer (LADO) on 01962 876364.

Worried about yourself, a friend or a child or young person you know? 

Anyone who has concerns about a child's welfare can make a referral to Children's Services. Referrals can come from the child themselves, professionals such as teachers, the police, GPs and health visitors, as well as family members and members of the public.

For children living in the Hampshire Local Authority Area, the Children's Services Referral Form should be used when making a referral. This can be found on the Hampshire County Council website. You do not need to know everything about the child before contacting Children’s Services. If you are concerned, it is important that you talk to someone about this. Hampshire Children’s Services has a phone number for members of the public to use on 0300 555 1384.

If you feel a child is in immediate danger and it is an emergency, call 999.