Child Protection

As a parent / carer you play a very important role in protecting your child and helping him/her get the best from education. There is always somebody to talk to especially when it comes to you and your child.

Managing change and conflict can be difficult, as can caring for a child. The seriousness and consequences of child welfare should not be underestimated. Look out for the signs and follow the simple guidelines:-

• Make time for your child and encourage effective communication.
• Familiarise yourself with your child’s friends and routine.
• Be sensitive to changes in behaviour.
• Teach your child to feel confident to refuse to do anything they feel is wrong.
• Get professional advice about protecting your child.

There is a designated Child Protection Officer at the school – Miss C-A Painter and two deputies, Ms R Gould and Mrs S Morgan (Student Support). Also a nominated governor, Mrs A. Thomas. All procedures followed are set out in guidance by the Local Safeguarding Children Board, which are in line with the All Wales Child Protection Procedures.

Where a professional has a concern about a child or a referral has been made to them, they will, in general seek to discuss these with the family and, where possible, seek their agreement to making referrals to social services. However, this should only be done where such a discussion and agreement will not place a child at increased risk of significant harm. That advice will be provided by the local social services department in consultation, where appropriate, with the police.

The designated teacher will clarify with these statutory agencies when, how and by whom, you, as parents or carers, will be told about any referral. The teacher will also seek advice as to whether or not the child should be informed of the process.

All staff have been trained in Child Protection procedures and are CRB checked. The types of child abuse are:-

• Physical: non-accidental acts, bruises, wounds, burns, fractures, bites, poisoning etc.
• Neglect: chronic inattention to a child’s basic needs for warmth, shelter, food, clothing etc.
• Emotional: extreme denial of love, attention, security and well-being.
• Online: any type of abuse that happens on the web, through social networks, playing online games or using mobile phones.
• Financial: including theft, fraud, exploitation, pressure in connection with wills, property or inheritance or financial transactions, or the misuse or misappropriation of property, possessions or benefits. This will normally only be applicable to adults at risk but may apply to a child in circumstances such as a parent/carer using a child’s inheritance or compensation in a way that does not contribute to the child’s well-being.
• Sexual: actual or likely sexual exploitation of a child or adolescent.

The school aims to create an atmosphere of openness whereby children can feel secure and that their concerns will be listened to. What they say will be taken seriously and every effort will be made to foster sensitive relationships between staff and pupils and parents / carers.

Helplines

1. NSPCC Child Protection Helpline – 0808 800500
2. Childline – 0800 1111
3. Children’s Commission for Wales – 01792 765600
4. Children’s Legal Centre – 08088 020 008
5. Samaritans – 01656 662333

As parents / carers you should be aware that the school:-

• Has a Child Protection Policy and procedures
• Endeavours to work with parents / carers and remains impartial if your child is being ,or has been referred.
• Should help parents / carers understand that a referral is in the interests of the child and that the school will be involved in the Child Protection enquiry or police investigations in relation to children’s educational progress:
• Will keep you informed of the educational progress of the child
• Has an Anti-Bullying Policy

• Child Protection Teacher – Miss C-A Painter. Miss Painter has an office in Ty Enfys.
• Child Protection Teacher (Deputy) – Ms R Gould. Ms Gould teaches in ‘D10’.
• Student Support – Mrs Sarah Morgan

The school also employs a counsellor twice a week. See Miss Painter for more information.

The Health Authority appoint a school nurse who will visit Porthcawl from time to time. Visit times will be advertised in the yellow bulletins. The school health nurse also co-ordinates the vaccinations.

Reasons to visit the school nurse

• A problem shared is a problem halved!
• Health concerns? Why not drop in and bring your lunch with you.
• Your health concerns or fears will not be disclosed to anyone else without your consent (unless it was felt your safety was at risk).
• Respect for your opinion at all times.

Counselling Directory is a confidential service that encourages those in need to seek help. They have many helpful information topics and resources for anti-bullying, support for parents / carers, and child-related issues. The site also serves as an information hub for people to read mental health-related articles and news, as well as to find local events running in your local area. If you wish to go on and visit a qualified counsellor in your area it will remain completely confidential:

counselling-directory.org.uk