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Procedures for Handling eSafety Incidents 

1. Introduction

Turning Point Leeds (TPL) is committed to safeguarding all pupils, staff, and stakeholders in the context of digital technology. This policy outlines clear procedures for handling e-safety incidents to ensure they are addressed promptly, fairly, and effectively, with a focus on restorative practice, safeguarding, and prevention of recurrence.

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2. Definitions

  • E-Safety Incident: Any event involving the misuse, harm, or potential harm from digital technologies, including cyberbullying, online harassment, access to inappropriate content, grooming, or data breaches.

  • Data Controller: TPL, responsible for determining the purposes and means of processing personal data.

  • Data Processor: Any third party that processes data on behalf of TPL.

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3. Responsibilities

  • Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): Oversees all e-safety incidents, coordinates the response, and ensures compliance with statutory guidance. Works in partnership with host school DSLs.

  • ICT/Systems Staff: Support monitoring, detection, and security of networks and systems to minimise e-safety risks.

  • Teaching and Support Staff: Promote responsible use of technology, integrate e-safety into lessons, and report concerns immediately.

  • Pupils and Parents/Carers: Expected to use technology responsibly and report any concerns or incidents promptly.

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4. Incident Reporting

  • Immediate reporting: Any staff member, pupil, or parent who becomes aware of an incident must report it immediately to the DSL or Deputy DSL.

  • Host school notification: The host school DSL will be informed of all incidents without delay.

  • Documentation: All incidents will be logged on TPL’s safeguarding records, including date, time, nature of incident, those involved, and actions taken. Records are stored securely in compliance with GDPR.

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5. Initial Response

  • Assessment: The DSL will assess the severity, safeguarding risk, and potential harm.

  • Immediate action: Steps will be taken to contain the incident (e.g., restricting device access, removing harmful material, securing accounts).

  • Safeguarding measures: If there is immediate risk of harm, contact emergency services and/or external safeguarding agencies.

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6. Investigation and Resolution

  • Investigation: The DSL will conduct a thorough and impartial investigation, involving interviews, evidence gathering, and digital records where appropriate.

  • Restorative approach: Where suitable, pupils involved will engage in restorative conversations to reflect, repair harm, and rebuild relationships.

  • Support: Victims, perpetrators, and witnesses will be offered support (e.g., counselling, mentoring, or external services).

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7. Communication and Reporting

  • Internal: Staff, pupils, and parents/carers directly involved will be kept informed of the investigation and outcomes.

  • External:

    • Police: In cases of illegal activity (e.g., grooming, exploitation, criminal harassment).

    • LADO: If allegations involve staff or volunteers.

    • Local Authority/Other Agencies: As required, in line with safeguarding procedures.

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8. Follow-Up and Review

  • Prevention measures: Policies, systems, or filtering software may be updated following incidents.

  • Training: Additional training or awareness sessions may be provided to staff, pupils, or parents.

  • Review: Post-incident reviews will assess the effectiveness of TPL’s response and identify lessons learned.

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9. Training and Awareness

  • Staff: Annual training on e-safety risks, incident handling, and reporting pathways.

  • Pupils: Age-appropriate digital citizenship and online safety education integrated into sessions. 

  • Parents/Carers: Guidance and information shared to help them support safe technology use at home.

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10. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually, or earlier if required by changes in legislation, technology, or after significant incidents.

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Conclusion

TPL is committed to ensuring all e-safety incidents are handled swiftly, sensitively, and transparently. Through strong safeguarding practices, restorative approaches, and collaboration with pupils, parents/carers, and host schools, we aim to maintain a safe and positive digital environment.

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Written: August 2025
Next Review: August 2026

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