Ysgol Rhys Prichard School General Safeguarding Statement Introduction The purpose of this document is to provide a framework which ensures that all safeguarding policies and practices are consistent and in line with stated values which underpin all work with children and young people. As such, this document provides a context for establishing good practice in all matters relating to the protection and care of children. What do we mean by ‘safeguarding’? There are two aspects to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children: Taking all reasonable measures to ensure that risks of harm to children’s well-being are minimised (Safeguarding). This is a broad agenda that includes the more specific responsibility to: Take all appropriate actions to address concerns about the welfare of a child(ren), or young person, working to agreed local policies and procedures in full partnership with other local agencies (Child Protection). Our Commitment to Safeguarding Our school is committed to the Safeguarding outcomes for children and young people so that learners: Feel safe: the effectiveness of providers in taking reasonable steps to ensure that children and young people feel safe; and Are safe: the effectiveness of providers in taking reasonable steps to ensure that children and young people are safe. We are committed to: Following the guidance in the All Wales Child Protection Procedures Respecting the rights of children Nurturing, protecting and safeguarding all of our pupils Implementing the requirements of legislation in regard to people with disabilities. Ensuring that workers adhere to the agreed procedures of our safeguarding policy. Keeping up to date with national and local developments relating to safeguarding. Following any local authority guidelines in relation to safeguarding children and adults in need of protection. Supporting parents and families. Sharing information with partner agencies where this is necessary to safeguard and promote the well-being of children. Underpinning Values of Safeguarding Policies and Procedures Overarching value: The welfare of the child is paramount Welsh Assembly Values: 7 Core Aims Have a flying start in life; Have a comprehensive range of education and learning opportunities; Enjoy the best possible health and are free from abuse, victimisation and exploitation; Have access to play, leisure, sporting and cultural activities; Are listened to, treated with respect, and have their race and cultural identity recognised; Have a safe home and a community which supports physical and emotional wellbeing; and Are not disadvantaged by poverty. School values: Diversity Ensure that all children and young people are safeguarded from harm or exploitation whatever their race, religion, health or disability, age, gender or sexuality. All work with children and young people will be informed by equal opportunities and anti-oppressive practice, and will reflect the diversity of needs of the communities that we serve. Respect Children have a right to be treated with respect and dignity and to be listened to as do the adults who work with them. Security All adults working on a paid or voluntary basis within the school and link organisations will have a responsibility to protect children from harm when and wherever they are in a position to do so. All those working with or on behalf of children and young people must reflect and promote the value of ‘Working Together’ with parents, colleagues and other agencies in order to create safe environments and protect children from harm. We want to make sure that children we have contact with know this and are empowered to tell us if they are suffering harm. We undertake to exercise proper care in the appointment and selection of all those who will work with children. Care All children should have the opportunity to raise concerns, express their views and contribute and comment on decisions taken about their lives, when and where possible and appropriate. Staff recognise that the needs of children are paramount and that children can only learn effectively at school and in other educational settings if their basic needs for, amongst other things, food, shelter, warmth, love and respect are met. Determination All adults have a responsibility to safeguard children Achievement All children are encouraged to be the best they can be in all aspects of their lives Who is responsible for Safeguarding? Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility LAs Children’s Services has lead responsibility for investigating all allegations or suspicions of abuse where there are concerns about a child Designated Officer for Safeguarding: Edward Davies, Headteacher Deputy Designated Officer for Safeguarding: Bethan Evans, Assistant Headteacher, Debra Davies Senior Teacher in Charge Governor responsible for Safeguarding: Jane Ryall