West Derby School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people; we expect all pupils, staff, volunteers and visitors to share this commitment. The school ensures children learn in a safe, caring and enriching environment. Children are taught how to identify risky, unsafe or problematic situations, how and when to seek help, how to develop positive and healthy relationships, and how to avoid situations where they might be at risk including by being exploited.

The school also has a statutory responsibility to share any concerns it might have about a child in need of protection with other agencies and in particular police, health and children’s services. Schools are not able to investigate concerns but have a legal duty to refer them. In most instances the school will be able to inform the parents/carer of its need to make a referral. However, sometimes the school is advised by children’s services or police that the parent/carer cannot be informed whilst they investigate the matter or make enquiries. We understand the anxiety parents/carers understandably feel when they are not told about any concerns from the outset. The school follows legislation that aims to act in the interests of the child.

The school will always seek to work in partnership with parents and other agencies to ensure the best possible outcomes for the child and family.

Mr M Thomas is Lead Designated Safeguarding Officer and Mrs. S. Graham, and Mrs. J Stephens are Deputy Lead Designated Safeguarding Officers. Mr T. Conchie, Safeguarding Trustee, is also a named Safeguarding Officer.

We work hard to ensure that all children, staff and visitors in our school are aware of who is responsible for safeguarding and who they can speak to if needed.