Safeguarding Voice: Recent Episodes
Education Child Protection
Welcome to ECP’s podcast. Podcasts you can listen to whilst on the go or grabbing a coffee. Our aim is to make safeguarding simple to understand. As children and adults at risk are at the centre of what we do and their welfare is paramount.
Welcome to the Early Years Foundation Stage 2026 Audiobook: Part 3 – The Safeguarding and Welfare Requirements
Thank you for taking the time to listen to this audiobook, created to support early years leaders, managers, practitioners and providers in understanding the safeguarding and welfare requirements within the Early Years Foundation Stage 2026.
These requirements form the foundation of safe, effective and high-quality early years practice. They set out the statutory expectations that help ensure children are healthy, safe, secure and supported to achieve the best possible outcomes.
Throughout this audiobook, we will explore the key responsibilities that providers and practitioners must understand and implement, including safeguarding and child protection, safer recruitment, staff training and supervision, health and safety, staff-to-child ratios, safer eating and sleeping practices, risk assessment, information sharing, record keeping, and working effectively with children and families.
The guidance reminds us that safeguarding is not simply about compliance. It is about creating environments where children feel safe, valued and supported, and where professionals are confident to identify concerns, take appropriate action and promote children's welfare at every opportunity.
As you listen, we encourage you to reflect on your own practice and consider how the requirements are embedded within your setting. Every policy, procedure and professional decision contributes to creating a culture where children can learn, develop and thrive.
Thank you for listening. We hope this audiobook strengthens your understanding of the EYFS safeguarding and welfare requirements and supports your ongoing commitment to providing safe, nurturing and child-centred care.
Every child deserves the best possible start in life. By understanding and applying the requirements explored throughout this audiobook, we can help create environments where children are protected, supported and able to flourish.
The Safeguarding Voice podcast brought to you by ECP Safeguarding.
Welcome to the Keeping Children Safe in Education 2026 Audiobook: Part One and Annex A
Thank you for taking the time to listen to this audiobook, which has been created to support all staff in schools and colleges in understanding their safeguarding responsibilities under Keeping Children Safe in Education 2026. Reading and understanding Part One of the guidance is a statutory requirement for all staff, and Annex A contains important additional information for those who work directly with children.
Throughout this audiobook, you will be guided through the key principles, responsibilities and safeguarding issues that every member of staff needs to understand in order to help keep children safe. You will hear about the importance of adopting a child-centred approach, recognising that safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children is everyone's responsibility and that every decision should be made in the best interests of the child.
The audiobook explores:
• The role of all staff in identifying concerns, responding appropriately and working as part of the wider safeguarding system.
• The safeguarding policies, procedures and reporting processes that every member of staff should know and follow.
• The role of the Designated Safeguarding Lead and the importance of sharing concerns promptly and effectively.
• Understanding abuse, neglect and exploitation, including physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse and neglect.
• Child-on-child abuse, online safety and the growing ways in which technology can feature within safeguarding concerns.
• Child criminal exploitation, child sexual exploitation, county lines, serious violence, domestic abuse, mental health concerns, radicalisation and other significant safeguarding risks.
• The importance of professional curiosity, trusting your instincts and maintaining an attitude of “it could happen here” when concerns arise.
• What to do when concerns are identified, including the importance of acting immediately, recording concerns accurately and sharing information appropriately to safeguard children.
The guidance reminds us that no single practitioner can ever have the full picture of a child's life. Safeguarding is most effective when professionals work together, share information promptly and take action at the earliest opportunity to ensure children receive the right help at the right time.
As you listen, we encourage you to reflect on how the information applies to your role and the children and young people you work with. The guidance emphasises the importance of building trusted relationships, listening to children's voices, recognising signs of vulnerability and remaining professionally curious when something does not feel right.
Ultimately, safeguarding is about ensuring that children are protected from harm, receive support as soon as concerns emerge and are able to grow up in circumstances that enable them to thrive. By understanding and applying the information contained within Part One and Annex A, every member of staff plays a vital role in creating a safer environment where children can learn, develop and achieve their best possible outcomes.
Thank you for listening. We hope this audiobook supports your understanding of safeguarding responsibilities and reinforces the importance of being child-centred, professionally curious, vigilant and confident in taking action when concerns arise.
Every action taken to safeguard a child matters. By listening to children, remaining curious, sharing concerns appropriately and acting when something does not feel right, we can help ensure that children receive the right help, at the right time, from the right people. Safeguarding is not simply a responsibility - it is a commitment to protecting children, promoting their welfare and ensuring they are able to thrive, achieve and be heard. Together, we can create safer environments where every child feels protected, valued and supported.
The Safeguarding Voice podcast brought to you by ECP Safeguarding.
Welcome to Chapter 3 of our audio book to Working Together to Safeguard Children 2026.
In this second release, we move from principles into practice—exploring how the safeguarding system provides help, support, and protection for children and families at every level of need. Whether concerns are emerging or risks are significant, this chapter sets out how services respond with clarity, coordination, and purpose.
This part of the guidance is for everyone working directly with children and families, and for those who design, lead, or commission services. It will deepen your understanding of how universal services, early help, Family Help, and statutory intervention come together as a single, joined-up system—ensuring children receive the right help at the right time.
Chapter 3 places strong emphasis on early identification, timely intervention, and consistent relationships. It introduces and embeds the Family Help model, showing how targeted early help and statutory support align to create a seamless pathway for families. It also sets clear expectations for multi-agency assessment, decision-making, and planning, alongside the statutory duties that underpin child in need and child protection work.
You’ll explore the practical realities of safeguarding: how to recognise when families need support, how assessments should be carried out, and how practitioners work together to respond to risk, both inside and outside the home. The chapter also gives detailed guidance on responding to complex needs, including extra-familial harm, domestic abuse, exploitation, and the specific vulnerabilities of babies, disabled children, and young carers.
At its heart, this chapter is about action, what good safeguarding looks like in day-to-day practice, how collaboration works in real terms, and how systems must respond quickly, thoughtfully, and proportionately to keep children safe and help families thrive.
Let’s continue.
Listen now to Chapter 3: Providing Help, Support and Protection.
Read ECP's briefing: click here
Link to the full guidance document: click here
The Safeguarding Voice podcast brought to you by ECP Safeguarding.
In this round-table episode, our safeguarding consultants explore one of the UK’s most pressing digital questions: should social media be banned for under 16s?
Drawing on professional insight and real-world experience, the panel examines the impact of social media on young people’s mental health, exposure to harmful content, and risks such as online exploitation. The discussion also considers the balance between parental responsibility, platform accountability, and the role of government regulation.
With reference to the Online Safety Act 2023, the episode explores whether stronger safeguards are enough, or whether more restrictive approaches should be considered to better protect children and young people.
This episode offers a balanced and thought-provoking conversation for anyone working with children, supporting families, or navigating the realities of online safety today.
Online Safety Act briefing - https://ecp-safeguarding-blogs.blogspot.com/2024/10/online-safety-act-2023-explainer.html
Kids Online World - https://www.kidsonlineworld.com/
Internet Watch Foundation - https://www.iwf.org.uk/
Child Exploitation and Online Protection Command (CEOP) - https://www.ceop.police.uk/Safety-Centre/
Childnet - https://www.childnet.com/
Education Support - https://www.educationsupport.org.uk/
NAPAC - https://napac.org.uk/
Samaritans - https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/
Mind - https://www.mind.org.uk/
The Safeguarding Voice podcast brought to you by ECP Safeguarding.
Welcome to our audio guide to Working Together to Safeguard Children 2026.
In this newly released edition, we bring you the latest statutory guidance in a clear and accessible audio format. Whether you’re travelling between visits, catching up during a busy day, or deepening your understanding of safeguarding practice, this guide is designed to support you, wherever and however you choose to listen.
This audiobook is for everyone who plays a role in the life of a child: teachers, social workers, health professionals, police colleagues, early years practitioners, volunteers, youth workers, and leaders across all safeguarding partnerships. If your work touches the lives of children or families, this guidance is written for you. Listening will help you feel more confident in your responsibilities, better connected across agencies, and more equipped to contribute to a system that protects children and supports families.
The 2026 update strengthens expectations for inclusive, anti‑racist and anti‑discriminatory practice; confirms the guidance applies to all children, including unborn babies; expands responses to harms such as domestic abuse, child sexual abuse, coercive control, online risks and group‑based exploitation; embeds the Family Help model by integrating early help and Section 17 support into a single multidisciplinary offer; and reinforces multi‑agency accountability with clearer information‑sharing duties, stronger use of data and impact‑focused reporting, all within a more streamlined statutory framework that supports consistent, high‑quality safeguarding practice
In Chapter 1, we begin with the foundations: what shared responsibility for safeguarding truly means in today’s system. You’ll explore the principles of child‑centred practice, the value of whole‑family approaches, and how strong professional relationships, curiosity, and effective information sharing underpin good safeguarding work. This opening chapter sets the scene for the guidance that follows and the collaborative culture it seeks to strengthen.
Let’s begin.
Listen now to Chapter 1: A Shared Responsibility.
Read ECP's briefing: click here
Link to the full guidance document: click here
The Safeguarding Voice podcast brought to you by ECP Safeguarding.
Boarding schools and residential education settings present safeguarding responsibilities that extend far beyond the classroom. In this episode, we are joined by Jane Morris, Director of Safeguarding at Mill Hill Education Trust, to explore the unique safeguarding challenges within boarding environments.
The discussion looks at how staff are trained to recognise and respond to risk, the importance of creating a culture of openness and trust, and how schools balance privacy with supervision in residential life. We also explore the role of peer relationships and dormitory dynamics, alongside practical advice for parents on supporting their child’s wellbeing while staying informed about safeguarding arrangements.
This episode is relevant for educators, safeguarding leads, parents, carers, and policymakers, offering insight into how boarding settings can create safe, supportive environments where every child feels protected and heard.
Support resources mentioned in this episode
Education Support https://www.educationsupport.org.uk/
NAPAC https://napac.org.uk/
Samaritans https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/
Mind https://www.mind.org.uk/
The Safeguarding Voice podcast brought to you by ECP Safeguarding.
In this episode, we are joined by Vicki Blackburn, Designated Safeguarding Lead and Deputy Head of Dame Alice Owen’s School, to discuss what it truly means to create effective safeguarding cultures. Culture is about more than policies and procedures—it’s about shared responsibility and mindset. We explore how schools, colleges, and other educational settings can move beyond compliance to create environments where every student feels safe, supported, and able to thrive.
Resources and Support:
Education Support – https://www.educationsupport.org.uk/
NAPAC – Support for survivors of abuse: https://napac.org.uk/
Samaritans – 24/7 support: https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/
Mind – Mental health support: https://www.mind.org.uk/
The Safeguarding Voice podcast brought to you by ECP Safeguarding.
Part 3 of the EYFS 2025 audiobook for group-based and school providers explores the updated safeguarding and welfare requirements coming into effect from September 2025.
This free audio version of the official government guidance helps practitioners identify the signs of child abuse and neglect and understand what action to take.
Full text version available here:
https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/68c024cb8c6d992f23edd79c/Early_years_foundation_stage_statutory_framework_-_for_group_and_school-based_providers.pdf.pdf
The Safeguarding Voice podcast brought to you by ECP Safeguarding.
In this episode, we speak with Catherine McLaughlin, Deputy CEO and Director of Services & Development at the Suzy Lamplugh Trust, to explore the often-misunderstood issue of stalking. Stalking can take many forms—from persistent unwanted contact and being followed to surveillance through digital means. It affects people from all walks of life and can leave long-lasting emotional and psychological impacts.
Catherine McLaughlin is the Director of Services & Development and Deputy CEO at the Suzy Lamplugh Trust. She leads the operational delivery of the National Stalking Helpline and Advocacy Services and heads the policy and campaign work related to stalking and personal safety.
Catherine brings her wealth of experience leading the National Stalking Helpline, the Stalking Threat Assessment Centre, and nationwide advocacy services to discuss:
- The different forms stalking can take
- Early warning signs to look out for
- Why stalking is often minimised or misunderstood
- How to seek help—from law enforcement, mental health professionals, and advocacy groups
- Steps to reclaim safety and control
If you or someone you know has experienced stalking, this episode offers clear, compassionate guidance and information on how to get the right support.
Resources and Support:
https://www.suzylamplugh.org/
https://napac.org.uk/
https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/
https://www.mind.org.uk/
The Safeguarding Voice podcast brought to you by ECP Safeguarding.
In this episode we explore the complex and often overlooked issue of stalking behaviours among young people. From obsessive messaging to digital surveillance, these behaviours can subtly emerge in teenage relationships and social circles, often normalised by pop culture or peer dynamics.
Catherine McLaughlin, Director of Services & Development and Deputy CEO at the Suzy Lamplugh Trust, joins us to unpack how to support young people in navigating the ‘firsts’ of adolescence while spotting red flag behaviours. Together, we discuss how unhealthy attachments can develop, how to identify controlling patterns early, and the importance of giving young people the tools to recognise and challenge these dynamics before they escalate.
This is a critical conversation that shines a light on unhealthy relationship behaviours and provides practical guidance for safeguarding young people.
Guest Bio
Catherine McLaughlin is the Director of Services & Development and Deputy CEO at the Suzy Lamplugh Trust. She leads on the operational delivery of the National Stalking Helpline, Advocacy and the Stalking Threat Assessment Centre, as well as policy and campaign work.
Support and Further Resources
If this episode raises any concerns or difficult feelings, support is available:
- NAPAC – Support for survivors of abuse
- Samaritans – 24/7 support
- Mind – Mental health support
- Hollie Gazzard Trust
- Alice Ruggles Trust
- Suzy Lamplugh Trust
The Safeguarding Voice podcast brought to you by ECP Safeguarding.
This episode of the KCSiE 2025 Audiobook covers Part 1: Safeguarding Information for All Staff. It explains what school and college staff need to know and do to safeguard children effectively.
Learn how to take a child-centred and coordinated approach to safeguarding, understand key responsibilities, recognise signs of abuse, neglect, exploitation, and respond appropriately. The episode also outlines the role of the designated safeguarding lead, the importance of early help, and how to build trusted relationships with children to help keep them safe.
By listening, staff can quickly understand their statutory duties and be prepared to identify and respond to concerns at the right time, ensuring children receive the right help when it matters most.
KCSiE 2025 audiobook, Safeguarding for school staff, Statutory safeguarding guidance, Child protection training, Designated safeguarding lead, Keeping children safe in education
The Safeguarding Voice podcast brought to you by ECP Safeguarding.
In this episode of Safeguarding Voice, we’re exploring what effective safeguarding looks like in faith-based communities. Our guest, Claudia Kitsberg, is the Head of Safeguarding and Welfare at the United Synagogue, where she has led a shift from reactive approaches to proactive community safeguarding.
Claudia shares how she’s built systems that prioritise training, support and early intervention — ensuring volunteers, staff and community members feel confident to raise concerns and better protect those around them.
Whether you work in faith settings or support those who do, this episode offers valuable insight into building trust and accountability in safeguarding systems.
Claudia Kitsberg is the Designated Safeguarding Lead at the United Synagogue. She has played a key role in shaping safeguarding policy and practice, introducing comprehensive training and support structures that have increased confidence in reporting and improved outcomes across the community.
Support & Self-Care Resources:
If this episode raises any concerns or difficult feelings, support is available:
- NAPAC – Support for survivors of abuse
- Samaritans – 24/7 support
- Mind – Mental health support
The Safeguarding Voice podcast brought to you by ECP Safeguarding.
Safeguarding Guidance: What to Do if You're Worried a Child Is Being Abused (Audio Version)
Safeguarding is not just the responsibility of the Designated Safeguarding Lead – it’s a shared duty. Everyone who comes into contact with children and their families as a part of their role has a part to play in recognising and responding to concerns.
This audiobook is a free, accessible version of the official government guidance: What to do if you’re worried a child is being abused. It’s designed to support practitioners identify the signs of child abuse and neglect and understand what action to take.
Listening to this guidance helps create stronger safeguarding cultures where staff can recognise the signs of abuse or neglect, understand how to respond, and feel confident in reporting concerns. This isn’t about ticking boxes – it’s about developing a mindset where every concern is taken seriously, and every child is protected.
Stream this safeguarding audiobook on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Full written guidance available here
https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/5a80597640f0b62302692fa1/What_to_do_if_you_re_worried_a_child_is_being_abused.pdf
The Safeguarding Voice podcast brought to you by ECP Safeguarding.
In this episode of Safeguarding Voice, ECP Safeguarding CEO Nicole Williamson is joined by safeguarding consultant Carly Spicer to explore key safeguarding responsibilities in out-of-school settings. Together, they unpack the non-statutory Department for Education (DfE) guidance for after school clubs, tuition providers, and community activity organisers.
This episode is essential listening for anyone working with children and young people outside of mainstream education—including tutors, volunteers, community leaders and activity providers. We break down the main headlines of the guidance and discuss how it can be practically applied in your setting to promote safety, transparency and compliance.
🔗 Read the guidance https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-for-parents-and-carers-on-safeguarding-children-in-out-of-school-settings/using-after-school-clubs-tuition-and-community-activities
📝 Read our summary blog https://ecp-safeguarding-blogs.blogspot.com/2023/10/prioritising-safety.html
Listen now and gain confidence in safeguarding best practice beyond the classroom.
The Safeguarding Voice podcast brought to you by ECP Safeguarding.
Join us on this bonus episode of Safeguarding voice. On this episode we explore the themes, terminology and prevention advice around misogyny and young people. All through the lens of the popular Netflix series Adolescence. We hope you enjoy this episode.
Amy Strode is an education and safeguarding professional, specialising for the last seven years within the counter-extremism and counter-terrorism sector, providing proactive support and contextual safeguarding interventions across all stages of education. Amy's broader experience includes frontline practice within mainstream primary schools; developing and facilitating programs on improving safeguarding dialogues and difficult conversations; and producing independent research and training on Incel Ideology, the wider Manosphere and linked harms.
Evelina holds a Master's degree in International Political Communication, and has previously worked for Prevent in the London borough of Enfield. She is a specialist CVE practitioner and trainer working in the education sector and holds recognized expert knowledge in the Extreme Right Wing, gender and extremism, and online extremist space. She also specialises in additional vulnerabilities such as SEND in radicalisation safeguarding.
Additional reading:
- Institute of Strategic Dialogue report referenced re online algorithms and misogyny- https://www.isdglobal.org/isd-publications/algorithms-as-a-weapon-against-women-how-youtube-lures-boys-and-young-men-into-the-manosphere/
- LSE Research on The Manosphere- From Pick-Up Artists to Incels: Con(fidence) Games, Networked Misogyny, and the Failure of Neoliberalism
- Mask Off: Masculinity Redefined- JJ Bola- covers masculinity from an intersectional male perspective.
- Men Who Hate Women- Laura Bates- extensive coverage of the Manosphere
- Reconciling Jekyll and Hyde: The future of masculinity research within the domestic violent extremism context.
- Hutchinson et al_I'm Not Super Familiar with Children's Ecosystems Online_Vol XIX_Issue 1_2025.pdf
The Safeguarding Voice podcast brought to you by ECP Safeguarding.
An essential listen for all early years practitioners! On this episode we are joined by our own ECP Safeguarding consultant Alan Gardiner talking us through the key reforms of the Early Years Statutory framework 2025. Alan breaks down for us the key changes which providers are expected to implement as of 1st September 2025. We hope you enjoy this episode
Support and Self care organisations:
https://napac.org.uk/
https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/
https://www.mind.org.uk/
Resources:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/early-education-and-childcare--2/early-education-and-childcare-effective-from-1-april-2025
The Safeguarding Voice podcast brought to you by ECP Safeguarding.
Join us for a discussion with Annelli Peavot, Head of Safeguarding at Canterbury Christ Church University, as we delve into the topic of safeguarding in higher education. In this episode, Annelli shares her expert knowledge on the responsibilities of HE institutions in ensuring the safety of both staff and students.
We explore the unique challenges faced by safeguarding professionals in higher education, including preventing radicalization and discuss the essential elements of robust safeguarding systems. Discover practical strategies for creating a safe and supportive learning environment.
Tune in to learn how universities can effectively protect their community and navigate the complexities of safeguarding in today's landscape.
https://napac.org.uk/
https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/
https://www.mind.org.uk/
HigherEducationSafeguarding #UniversitySafeguarding #PreventDuty #StudentSafety #StaffSafety #SafeguardingPodcast #CanterburyChristChurchUniversity
The Safeguarding Voice podcast brought to you by ECP Safeguarding.
In this episode we are joined by Annelli Peavot Head of Safeguarding with responsibilities for Prevent at Canterbury Christ Church University. Exploring the Office for Students E6 condition: Tackling Sexual harassment and sexual misconduct in higher education. Annelli shares her knowledge and expertise about the requirements for institutions, exploring undertaking a needs analysis and next steps for HE providers. We hope you enjoy this episode.
Resources and further reading:
https://www.officeforstudents.org.uk/for-providers/student-protection-and-support/harassment-and-sexual-misconduct/condition-e6-harassment-and-sexual-misconduct/
Support and Self care organisations:
https://napac.org.uk/
https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/
https://www.mind.org.uk/
The Safeguarding Voice podcast brought to you by ECP Safeguarding.
In this months episode listen in to a discussion with our podcast host Carly Spicer and our guest speaker Owen Thomas, Head of Fathers development at the gender charity Future Men. In our episode we explore the value of engaging and involving fathers in support for children and young people. Looking at current research, engagement strategies and the positive impact this can have on children, families and communities.
Resources and further reading:
Supporting evidence-informed practice with children and families | Research in Practice
Search | Research in Practice
Search everything - University of East Anglia
Publications | Innovation in Fatherhood and Family Research | University of Lincoln
The Myth of Invisible Men
Www.futuremen.org Advocacy - Future Men
Support and Self care organisations:
NAPAC
Samaritans
MIND
The Safeguarding Voice podcast brought to you by ECP Safeguarding.
Welcome to this latest episode of Safeguarding voice. In this episode we explore the SEND code of Practice with our ECP consultant Caroline Dulin.
Caroline shares her working experience of using the guidance during her previous role in education and highlights its value for practitioners in ensuring consistent and aligned approaches to supporting children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. We hope you enjoy this episode. Guest speaker- Caroline Dulin
For full guidance: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/send-code-of-practice-0-to-25
For ECP guidance summary: https://ecp-limited-blogs.blogspot.com/2024/09/send-code-of-practice.html
The Safeguarding Voice podcast brought to you by ECP Safeguarding.
We are joined in this months episode by Dan Roe - The Designated Safeguarding Lead for Educational and Sporting Futures. As an outstanding rated Ofsted provider, Dan shares his knowledge and insights from the process, providing practical advice to other providers in the sector. We hope you enjoy this episode.
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/further-education-and-skills-inspection-handbook-eif
The Safeguarding Voice podcast brought to you by ECP Safeguarding.
Join us in this months episode for an exploration of the Early Years Foundation Stage guidance (EYFS) with our consultant Alan. Sharing his expertise and advice around how to get the most from this guidance document, we hope you enjoy this episode.
Alan Gardiner is a consultant at ECP safeguarding leading our Early Years portfolio
EYFS resources:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/early-years-foundation-stage-framework--2
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/report-a-serious-childcare-incident#what-you-must-tell-ofsted-about
Well-being resources:
https://napac.org.uk/
https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/
The Safeguarding Voice podcast brought to you by ECP Safeguarding.
Preventing Sexual Harassment in the workplace - the new Legal DutyListen in to this episode to hear from Colin lock - a Human resources expert exploring the new legal duty for employers to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace called the Worker Protection Act. Within this episode we cover what the duty is and offers advice to employers across a range of sectors prepare for the changes expected to be enforced as of October 2024.
Colin Lock is a HR professional with over 40 years experience in his field.
https://www.equalityhumanrights.com/guidance/consultation-technical-guidance-sexual-harassment-and-harassment-work
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2023/51/contents
The Safeguarding Voice podcast brought to you by ECP Safeguarding.
Join us in this month’s episode to explore impact and support around substance misuse. The team from Change Grow Live (CGL) share their knowledge and insights on how we can all work effectively together to support families and people when they are impacted by substance abuse. In this episode we explore the harmful myths and stereotypes that get in the way of identification, how to effective engage those affected and where to refer for futher support.
Guest Speakers;
Liam - Youth Justic Service Resilience Worker
Megan - Young Person Resilience Team Leader
Fleur - Senior Chemsex & LGBTQI Worker
Links to resources referenced in episode:
TALK TO FRANK: 0300 123 6600 https://www.talktofrank.com/
CGL HELP YOUR MATE: https://www.changegrowlive.org/help-your-mate
KOOTH WELLBEING: https://www.kooth.com/
SANDBOX WELLBEING: https://thesandbox.mindler.co.uk/
SAMARITANS: 116 123 https://www.samaritans.org/
SHOUT TEXTLINE: TEXT SHOUT TO 85258 https://giveusashout.org/
ANXIETY UK 03444 775 774 https://www.anxietyuk.org.uk/
SINGLE POINT OF CONTACT (Mental Health Services Herts) 0300 1234 244
HERTS MIND: 020 3727 3600 https://www.hertsmindnetwork.org/services-for-young-people/
NIGHTLIGHT: 01923 256391 o CHILDLINE: 0800 1111 https://www.childline.org.uk/
The education child protection podcast brought to you by ECP
It is mandatory to read and understand Part 1 and Annexe B of the Keeping Children Safe in Education 2024 guidance. This Audio Version provides the option to listen to the guidance at your convenience.
This resource ensures that everyone can access and comprehend the vital information necessary to maintain the highest standards of safeguarding in our educational environment.
The education child protection podcast brought to you by ECP
Join us on this episode to hear our CEO Nicole’s run through of the key learning points from KCSiE 2024 guidance.
Summary Blog for KCSiE 2024 - https://ecp-limited-blogs.blogspot.com/2024/05/keeping-children-safe-in-education.html
Full Guidance - https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/6650a1967b792ffff71a83e8/Keeping_children_safe_in_education_2024.pdf
The education child protection podcast brought to you by ECP
Join us on this episode with ECP consultant Charlie Witherspoon exploring the current risk in the rise of Sextortion, what it says about it in law, how to spot the signs and how to engage those effected with timely and effective support.
NCA https://nationalcrimeagency.gov.uk/what-we-do/crime-threats/kidnap-and-extortion/sextortion
IWF https://www.iwf.org.uk/resources/sextortion/
Thorn Defend Children from Sexual Abuse Sextortion.co.uk
The education child protection podcast brought to you by ECP
In this months episode: ’Faith based abuse’ we hear from our very own Safeguarding consultant Tina Pokuaah. Exploring what is faith based abuse, its different forms and how to remain ‘culturally competent’ when assessing Safeguarding risk and needs within communities.
Tina is one of the Safeguarding consultants for ECP Ltd, and the founder of Kesis Consulting. Tina is a specialist in Domestic abuse Prevention and Response.
Further reading and guidance:https://www.met.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/caa/child-abuse/faith-based-abuse?__cf_chl_captcha_tk__=DJTInjy8tDVgm.Oa_3563kLSmCO2op9Q5s7NncIWEG4-1637785051-0-gaNycGzNCJE
https://www.unicef.org/protection/harmful-practices
https://afruca.org/
https://nwgnetwork.org/event/spiritual-and-ritual-abuse-survivor-stories-conference/
The education child protection podcast brought to you by ECP
Bonus episode with the DBS! Danielle and Jordan are back with us answering common Q&A’s about the DBS.
https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/disclosure-and-barring-service link to guidance documents.
Jordan Hayden is the Regional Outreach Adviser for the North West Region of England. He is part of the Partnerships Team and is responsible for building relationships with organisations throughout the North West, and providing support with DBS products, processes and legislation. Prior to joining the DBS Partnerships Team, Jordan worked for the Department for Work and Pensions, monitoring and managing payments of disability benefits, before moving to DBS in 2016 and working on the Disputes Team and Policy Team, answering queries and writing guidance about the legislation that applies to DBS, the levels of DBS check available, and the process of barring individuals who pose safeguarding risks to vulnerable groups.
Danielle Carter is a Stakeholder Engagement Adviser at Disclosure and Barring Service. She is part of the Partnerships Team and supports national organisations across England, Wales & Northern Ireland. Prior to joining the Partnerships team in January, Danielle supported Registered Bodies on the DBS RB Management Team as a DBS Account Manager.
The education child protection podcast brought to you by ECP
Listen into this episode to learn more about ‘The For Baby’s Sake Trust’ (originally named the Stefanou Foundation) . A domestic abuse charity whose vision is to tackle the root causes of disadvantage and vulnerability with expectant parents, focusing on very young babies who do not have a voice.
Brenda Evans - For Baby’s Sake Therapeutic Lead & East of England Team Manager
Brenda is a qualified and highly experienced Psychodynamic Therapist and Clinical Supervisor who has worked in this sector for over 25 years. She has managed and developed multidisciplinary teams to support families with multiple and complex needs. Her specialist area is working with families where domestic abuse, substance misuse and unresolved trauma impact the wellbeing of all family members.
Brenda established and developed a thriving private practice and lectured in Therapy across Hertfordshire. Her career started in HR, and she was a HR & Training Director at the time she left to pursue her therapy studies.
Judith Rees - Director of Operations
Judith took up her role at The For Baby’s Sake Trust in July 2015, having worked in the NHS for 33 years. While with the NHS Judith was a Staff Nurse, Midwife, Health Visitor, Practice Teacher, and, Safeguarding Children’s Nurse and Team Leader for Health Visitors and School Nurses. She went to set up the Family Nurse Partnership Team in Hertfordshire which she managed for four years. Judith holds a MSc in Child Protection and Child Welfare. Judith’s passion for early intervention and safeguarding in relation to domestic abuse and her training, supervision and safeguarding skills are being put to excellent use at The For Baby’s Sake Trust in her role of on Director of Operations and Safeguarding Lead.
The education child protection podcast brought to you by ECP
Listen to our latest episode to learn about how to engage and capture the voice and views of young people with SEND. We are joined in this episode by three staff from Westlea school; Head of Pastoral Development and the Designated Safeguarding lead (DSL) - Catherine Goodwin, Kathryn White - Attendance and Safeguarding officer and Jeanette Fuster - Safeguarding Officer. We hope you enjoy this episode.
Jeanette Fuster: I have worked in education for over 20 years, initially specialising in early years development and assessing teaching assistants for NVQ. My work has included outreach for Enfield Children's Centres and family liaison in schools. More recently I have developed my work in safeguarding and joined West Lea in December 2022 as their Safeguarding Officer. I work alongside Catherine Goodwin, Kathryn White, and the wider safeguarding team. I am passionate about keeping children safe, and providing a platform for them to share their voice and lived experience.
Kathryn White: Hello, I’m Kathryn White, Attendance and Safeguarding Officer, and member of the Pastoral Development Team at West Lea Special Needs School. I have worked in education for over a decade and at West Lea School for over two years. I have a passion for attendance & love the work I get to do with students and families; helping them to overcome any barriers to attendance they may be facing
Catherine Goodwin: Living and working in Enfield I am acutely aware of the challenges that exist for children and young people and of the additional vulnerabilities those with Special Educational Needs face as they navigate the real and online world.
I joined West Lea School in 2019 after working for 23 years in a mainstream school. As the school’s Designated Safeguarding Lead, I am passionate about safeguarding and since joining West Lea, I have been able to really develop my understanding of the different elements of communication, the importance of making language concrete and how to use visuals to support communication with children and young people. I am really keen to share these techniques with other professionals so they can better support children and young people with additional needs.
Further reading
https://speechandlanguage.org.uk/educators-and-professionals/
https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/topics/communication/communication-tools/social-stories-and-comic-strip-coversations
https://widgitonline.com/en/home
The education child protection podcast brought to you by ECP
Listen to our latest episode to learn about Safeguarding systems in county level Football. We are joined in this episode by the Designated Safeguarding Office for Hertfordshire Football Association - Gemma. We hope you enjoy this episode.
Gemma’s Bio-
I have worked for Hertfordshire Football Association as their Designated Safeguarding Officer for 18months leading on safeguarding to make sure the game is safe for everyone within Hertfordshire. This covers youth, open-age, adult, vets and disability football and is a role where no two days are ever the same. I have a large cohort of Club Welfare Officers who play a pivotal role within the game to support their clubs with any concerns they have around safeguarding and poor practice. I offer them support and guidance as well as training to enhance their knowledge around safeguarding.
Previous to this I worked in local government in Hertfordshire for 15 years, first as the Play Development Officer working front line with children and young people running youth clubs, after school clubs and holiday camps to then become the Safeguarding Support Officer to lead on safeguarding to make sure that we were compliant with processes, procedures and polices to safeguard all, staff and our customers.
I have a real passion for safeguarding and want to be able to do my best to protect all children, young people and adults at risk from harm that is being inflicted upon them, everyone deserves to be safe in whatever they do. Knowing that I am doing something where I can support and try to make a difference, enabling people to have a voice and for it to be listened to is something I think is key and am an advocate for.
The education child protection podcast brought to you by ECP
In this episode we are joined by ECP’s Senior Education Specialist, Alan Gardiner where we exploring all the latest changes in the new 2023 edition of 'Working Together to Safeguard Children Guidance.'
This statutory guidance on multi-agency working is designed to facilitate collaboration among different agencies to support, safeguard, and enhance the well-being of children. It provides a framework for coordinated efforts to address the diverse needs of children, emphasising the importance of working together to ensure their protection and promote their welfare.
Alan has had over 21 years experience in the education sector with 7 years as a headteacher and Designated Safeguarding Lead. Through his delivery of training at ECP as a consultant in our Early Years and Primary Portfolio. Alan prides himself on creating safe spaces for all to help them fulfil their aspirations, by empowering people to believe change can happen. This is created by giving people the confidence to challenge and provide safety and security for the next generation.
Full Guidance - https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/working-together-to-safeguard-children--2
Blog - https://ecp-limited-blogs.blogspot.com/2023/12/working-together-to-safeguard-children.html
The education child protection podcast brought to you by ECP
https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/disclosure-and-barring-service
Jordan Hayden is the Regional Outreach Adviser for the North West Region of England. He is part of the Partnerships Team and is responsible for building relationships with organisations throughout the North West, and providing support with DBS products, processes and legislation. Prior to joining the DBS Partnerships Team, Jordan worked for the Department for Work and Pensions, monitoring and managing payments of disability benefits, before moving to DBS in 2016 and working on the Disputes Team and Policy Team, answering queries and writing guidance about the legislation that applies to DBS, the levels of DBS check available, and the process of barring individuals who pose safeguarding risks to vulnerable groups.
Danielle Carter is a Stakeholder Engagement Adviser at Disclosure and Barring Service. She is part of the Partnerships Team and supports national organisations across England, Wales & Northern Ireland. Prior to joining the Partnerships team in January, Danielle supported Registered Bodies on the DBS RB Management Team as a DBS Account Manager.
The education child protection podcast brought to you by ECP
Sharon Bryan has worked in the Violence against Women and Girls (VaWG) sector for 26 years. Most of those, front line, supporting and advising victims and survivors of domestic abuse.
Sharon has worked in refuge and from 2000 to 2004 was a trustee for the Women’s Aid Federation of England. In 2004 Sharon developed the first Independent Domestic Violence Advocacy service in Westminster, London and was one of the first ever people to qualify as an Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA), having been asked to attend the pilot for the SafeLives IDVA training.
Sharon worked for 16 years in Westminster, helping to establish the Westminster MARAC and sitting on its panel for 14 years. She worked as the Senior Domestic Abuse Consultant, co-located with Westminster Children’s Services for 11 years.
In 2021, Sharon joined the National Centre for Domestic Violence (NCDV), as the Head of Partnerships and Development of Domestic Abuse Services.
Sharon has won several awards along the way for her work with victims and survivors of domestic abuse and has gained national recognition for her work.
Sharon is a survivor of domestic abuse.
Links to resources referenced in episode;
https://www.ncdv.org.uk/
https://clares-law.com/
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2021/17/contents/enacted
The education child protection podcast brought to you by ECP
Join us for our second installment with our Senior Safeguarding Consultant Becki Greenacre discussing her experience of a recent Ofsted Inspection as a Designated Safeguarding Lead for a primary Multi- academy trust.
In this episode we are exploring Becki’s lived experience of the Ofsted process and sharing of some top tips for practitioners.
National guidance:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/education-inspection-framework/education-inspection-framework
https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1181955/Keeping_children_safe_in_education_2023.pdf
Resources for staff wellbeing:
https://napac.org.uk/
https://www.educationsupport.org.uk/
The education child protection podcast brought to you by ECP
Join us for our second instalment with Prevent Coordinator for the East of England- David Layton-Scott discussing the national Prevent space.
In this episode we are exploring what are the current national key Ideological threats are across the UK and where to access guidance and support.
David also explores where to go to tap into your local source of counter terrorism police information and data.
David is a Regional Prevent Coordinator for the Department for Education covering the East of England. His role is to support the Education sector in the region in carrying out its Prevent responsibilities. This post commenced in April, for the previous 5yrs David’s role focused on supporting the Further and Higher Education Sectors.
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-prevent-duty-safeguarding-learners-vulnerable-to-radicalisation
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/regional-further-education-fe-and-higher-education-he-prevent-coordinators
https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/independent-review-of-prevent
The education child protection podcast brought to you by ECP
The education child protection podcast brought to you by ECP
With 24 years of child protection experience, Nicole is dedicated to safeguarding individuals and fostering equal opportunities for success. Collaborating with sector experts, Nicole designs and delivers training, audit services, and supervise leaders, establishing transparent relationships founded on integrity. Her goal is to empower professionals to confidently fulfil their legal duty of care.
Links for the podcast summary:
- Meeting Digital and Technology standards in schools and colleges: click here
- Keeping Children Safe in Education 2023: click here
- Cyber Security Standards: click here
- Seeing children safe during community activities, after-school clubs and tuition: non-statutory guidance for providers running out-of-school settings: click here
Join Nicole and Carly as they discuss the new Keeping Children Safe in Education Guidance 2023 in our latest podcast.
Explore the recommendations on online filtering and monitoring, its link to pupil behaviour, and how these systems better prepare staff to keep children safe.
Join us to consider the approach to understanding filtering systems, regularly reviewing them, and the wider response to harmful content. We consider effective staff training, safer recruitment including online searches, risk assessment and safeguarding approaches for external speakers, and essential actions to be taken now, ready for the 1st September implementation.
Let us support you in being September ready - have a listen today!
The education child protection podcast brought to you by ECP
David is a Regional Prevent Coordinator for the Department for Education covering the East of England. His role is to support the Education sector in the region in carrying out its Prevent responsibilities. This post commenced in April, for the previous 5yrs David’s role focused on supporting the Further and Higher Education Sectors.
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-prevent-duty-safeguarding-learners-vulnerable-to-radicalisation
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/regional-further-education-fe-and-higher-education-he-prevent-coordinators
https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/independent-review-of-prevent
The education child protection podcast brought to you by ECP
This week Leonie talks with Paul Chambers co-founder of PoetsIN the award-winning creative mental health charity.
Resource linksWebsite - https://www.poetsin.com/
PoetsIN Mental health Resources - https://www.poetsin.com/resources/
The education child protection podcast brought to you by ECP
Evie Gibson is an independent researcher and educator with a passion for understanding and combatting gendered extremism. Evie is the co-founder of Peony Education services, a training provider which seeks to empower and upskill education staff to combat misogynistic attitudes in schools.
Resource linksEducate against Hate - https://www.educateagainsthate.com/resources/ - general extremism and hate crime, with some RSE and misogyny
Groundswell project - https://www.groundswellproject.org/ counter-extremism project with a focus on community building, extreme misogyny, and the connections between extremism and domestic violence.
Beyond Equality - https://www.beyondequality.org/ working with men and boys to challenge harmful gender norms.
PSHE association - https://pshe-association.org.uk/guidance/ks1-5/addressing-misogyny-toxic-masculinity-and-social-media-influence-in-pshe-education guidance on addressing toxic masculinity and online influencers.
Votes for Schools - https://www.votesforschools.com/results/crime-justice-extremism/should-we-blame-influencers-for-online-harm/ free sessions on addressing online influencers and online harms.
Hope Not Hate - https://hopenothate.org.uk/andrew-tate/ https://hopenothate.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/andrew-tate-educational-resource-2023-02-v3.pdf Downloadable resources and educational guidance from Hope Not Hate on Andrew Tate and his connections to extremism.
Peony Education Services - peonyeducationservices@gmail.com Peony Education provide training and resources on identifying and tackling misogyny and extreme misogyny in schools. The training is also suitable for all adults working in safeguarding, education, and childcare settings. Intervention guidance is also available.
Email peonyeducationservices@gmail.com to find out how we can help you!
Peony Education is founded by Evie Gibson and Amy Strode, with a core philosophy of education delivered through compassion and kindness. Peony aims to empower and upskill education staff to tackle misogyny in the classroom and in the workplace.
Interventions;
Harvard University, 6 tips for reducing and preventing Misogyny and Sexual Harrassment - https://mcc.gse.harvard.edu/resources-for-families/6-tips-parents-reducing-preventing-misogyny-sexual-harassment
Research and findings from the Scottish parliament on misogyny (point 5.2) -
https://www.gov.scot/publications/misogyny-human-rights-issue/pages/5/
Durham University Centre for Research into Violence and Abuse - https://www.durham.ac.uk/research/institutes-and-centres/research-violence-abuse/research-profile/geo-toolkit/example-interventions/
The education child protection podcast brought to you by ECP
Are you a professional working in Hertfordshire? Then join us for this bonus episode where we are joined by Sally Gubb, Manager of Safe Space at Hertfordshire County Council.
Safe Space offers children and young people across Hertfordshire a creative, confidential and safe space to explore any issues affecting their everyday lives. The service provides therapeutic support to children and young people via counselling and arts therapy (art, play and drama therapy), as well as mentoring for secondary aged young people.
To contact or make a referral to Safe Space, visit: https://www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/media-library/documents/childrens-services/counselling-in-schools/safe-space-cyp-referral-form.pdf
The education child protection podcast brought to you by ECP
Join Leonie & Katrina as they explore online safety - specifically grooming in the online world.
For all organisations referenced in this episode, these can be found on our website, Kids Online World.
Below you can find links and information about the different organisations who can support you if you are concerned someone is being groomed or exploited online.- Resources for parents & carers
- Resources for professionals
Education Child Protection is a specialist child protection and safeguarding training company working with organisations across all sectors who come into contact with children, young people, families and adults at risk.
Our Mission is to use our passion, knowledge and expertise to empower professionals with the skills and confidence to keep people safe, reach their potential, and thrive. Working to create a safer place where everyone reaches their potential free from harm.
www.ecplimited.com
The education child protection podcast brought to you by ECP
Join host Leonie Thorpe as we welcome a special guest to this latest episode - Ashley Howard - Director of organisation Forever Young People.
Forever Young People provides a multitude of services to support young people, but in this episode we are focusing on the area of Mentoring.
Join us as we discuss the whys and hows of mentoring, and the impact this can have on service users.
In this episode of Safeguarding Voice, Host Leonie Thorpe is joined by safeguarding consultant Carly Danes to share information about secondary trauma / vicarious traumatisation.
Trigger Warning This episode references childhood sexual abuse.
links referenced in the episode:
https://uktraumacouncil.org/
https://www.annafreud.org/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zg8ahtHIRxU (Trauma Informed Practice video by NHS Scotland)
https://www.educationsupport.org.uk/resources/for-individuals/videos/secondary-trauma/
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/working-definition-of-trauma-informed-practice#:~:text=This%20guidance%20provides%20a%20definition,seeking%20to%20prevent%20re%2Dtraumatisation. TIP gov guidance
Join Heather and Amy as they discuss the use of threshold documents and guidance in the safeguarding referral process.
What are your local authority services looking for in a referral? What do they need? And how can threshold guidance documents from your local authority help guide you?
Listen to this latest episode of safeguarding voice to find out.
Join Safeguarding consultant Heather McDaid as she is joined by Craig De Vos, Youth Programme manager from Gamcare as they discuss the risks and impacts of youth gambling.
For more information about Gamcare: https://www.gamcare.org.uk/
National Gambling Helpline – 24 hours a day on Freephone 0808 80 20 133
BigDeal is a place for young people to find information and support related to gambling, either for themselves or for someone they care about.https://www.bigdeal.org.uk/
In this episode, Safeguarding Consultant Heather McDaid is joined by ECP Business Manager Leonie Thorpe as they navigate the complexities of families living in poverty, and what this means for us as professionals when formulating appropriate support and safeguarding responses.
Consultants Carly and Heather talk about stigma, concern , fear and solutions in relation to safeguarding and how mental ill health may be intertwined with it. This is a brief exploration to act as a launch pad for further discussion.
Join Safeguarding consultants Heather McDaid & Tina Pokuaah as they discuss domestic abuse:
From definitions and behaviours to different services and their role in supporting and advocating for victims, referral pathways, and recognising signs and dangers to those trying to escape abusers, Heather and Tina discuss all you need to be aware of in regards to our responses to working with anyone experiencing, living with or fleeing domestic abuse.
This episode focuses on allegations/ concerns raised in relation to teachers, supply teachers, other staff, volunteers and contractors.
Highlighting the updates made to Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) 2021.
This includes information relating to the modus operandi of sex offenders. Recognising grooming, as well as, what a 'Low-level' concern may look like in practice when it does not meet a threshold of harm.
During this episode Heather McDaid and Katrina Curtis, ECP's Safeguarding Consultants discuss why there has been a reported increase in the number of self generated indecent images of children.
This episode also includes content on...
Omegle, only fans, Tik Tok, the IWF and Childline.
My Whole Self Panel Discussion.
Everyone at ECP was inspired to be part of this podcast inspired by Mental Health First Aid England (MHFA). MHFA shared some great ways that organisations could raised awareness about bringing our 'whole self' to works.
By putting diversity and inclusion at the centre of workplace mental health and wellbeing, we can create a workplace culture where people can bring their whole self to work. Employees should be able to open up about their needs at work and feel supported and included.
Webinar Host - Heather McDaid (ECP, Safeguarding Consultant)
Panellists - Nicole Williamson (ECP, Director), Leonie Maddin (ECP, Business Manager) and Katrina Curtis (ECP, Safeguarding Consultant).
WholeSelf #MyWholeSelf #MentalHealth #MentalWellbeing #Inclusive #Diversity #Awareness #Work #Workplacechange #Difference #Inclusion #race #sexuality #ability
Nicole Williamson the Director of Education Child Protection talks to a a colleague from children's social care about what happens beyond referral. Following a Section 47 enquiry within Social Care, the decision taken may be to move into an initial child protection conference – and we hope to provide an overview as to the conference aims, process and outcomes.
Throughout this podcast we will provide an oversight into what you, as a professional can expect, should you ever be invited to represent your agency.
This advice is for designated safeguarding leads (DSLs), their deputies, and any safeguarding role that may be required to attend child protection conferences.
We recommend that you visit your Local Safeguarding Children’s Partnership website for specific localised guidance regarding these procedures.
This podcast aims to simplify the non-statutory advice for designated safeguarding leads in education settings across England. Presented by Katrina Curtis, Safeguarding Consultant for Education Child Protection LTD.