1. Introduction
At Turning Point Leeds (TPL), safeguarding is our highest priority. This policy sets out the procedures for responding to allegations of misconduct, abuse, or inappropriate behaviour involving staff, pupils, or other members of the community. It reflects the principles of Keeping Children Safe in Education (2024) and Leeds City Council safeguarding procedures.
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2. Policy Objectives
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Ensure that all allegations of misconduct or abuse are taken seriously, investigated promptly, and handled with sensitivity and confidentiality.
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Provide clear guidance for reporting allegations, conducting investigations, and implementing safeguarding measures.
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Promote a culture of openness, transparency, and accountability where concerns can be raised without fear.
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Ensure that restorative approaches are used, where safe and appropriate, to repair relationships and strengthen community trust.
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3. Responsibilities
Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)
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Receive and record all allegations or concerns.
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Ensure allegations are investigated promptly and in line with safeguarding procedures.
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Immediately inform the host school DSL and, where appropriate, the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO).
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Management
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Support the DSL in handling allegations and ensure legal/statutory requirements are met.
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Ensure adequate resources and training are in place.
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All Staff
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Report any concerns or allegations immediately to the DSL.
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Maintain confidentiality and cooperate fully with investigations.
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Pupils
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Encouraged to report concerns or allegations to a trusted adult.
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Assured their welfare will be prioritised and concerns handled with sensitivity.
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Parents/Carers
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Encouraged to raise concerns with the DSL or management.
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Kept informed of the process and outcomes as appropriate, respecting confidentiality.
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4. Reporting Procedures
Initial Report
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Any concern must be reported to the DSL immediately.
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Details recorded accurately, including name, nature of allegation, and supporting evidence/witnesses.
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Host school informed without delay.
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Confidentiality
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Allegations will be treated with strict confidentiality and shared only on a need-to-know basis.
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External Reporting
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Allegations against staff will be referred to the LADO within one working day.
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Allegations of potential criminal conduct or significant safeguarding risk will also be reported to the police and/or children’s social care, in consultation with the LADO and host school.
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5. Investigation Procedures
Initial Assessment
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DSL assesses the nature and seriousness of the allegation.
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Immediate safeguarding measures may be implemented, such as restricted duties or suspension.
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Formal Investigation
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Where required, a formal investigation will be undertaken by the DSL, host school, or an independent investigator.
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Investigations must be fair, thorough, and documented.
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Outcome and Action
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A written report will summarise findings and recommendations.
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Outcomes may include:
• No further action.
• Internal action, such as training or restorative intervention.
• Disciplinary action.
• Referral to external agencies (LADO, social care, police).
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6. Support and Welfare
Victims
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Offered immediate safeguarding support, counselling, and pastoral care.
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Support coordinated between TPL and the host school.
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Accused Individuals
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Treated fairly and given the opportunity to respond.
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Offered support to understand and engage with the process.
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7. Review and Monitoring
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Allegations will be reviewed to identify patterns or areas for improvement.
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This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure alignment with KCSIE, Leeds City Council guidance, and best practice.
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8. Conclusion
TPL is committed to maintaining a safe and respectful environment. By ensuring robust procedures for reporting and handling allegations, working in partnership with schools and the local authority, and embedding restorative practice, we will safeguard the welfare and dignity of every individual.
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Written: August 2025
Next Review: August 2026