Identifying & reporting abuse & neglect

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that all staff at Turning Point Leeds (TPL) understand their responsibilities in recognising, responding to, and reporting concerns about abuse or neglect. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility, and this policy provides clear procedures to protect and promote the welfare of all pupils.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, and contractors working with TPL pupils. It covers all forms of abuse and neglect, including: physical, emotional, sexual, financial abuse, neglect, exploitation, and exposure to extremist or radicalising influences.

3. Definitions

Abuse: A form of maltreatment of a child. It may involve inflicting harm or failing to act to prevent harm.
Neglect: The persistent failure to meet a child’s basic physical and/or psychological needs, likely to result in serious impairment of health or development.
Safeguarding: Protecting children from maltreatment; preventing impairment of health or development; ensuring safe and effective care; taking action to enable all children to have the best outcomes.

4. Signs of Abuse and Neglect

Staff must remain vigilant for indicators, which may include (examples, not exhaustive):

Physical abuse: unexplained injuries, repeated absences, reluctance to change clothes.
Emotional abuse: withdrawal, low self-esteem, overly compliant or aggressive behaviour.
Sexual abuse: age-inappropriate sexual knowledge, difficulty walking or sitting, disclosures of nightmares.
Neglect: poor hygiene, frequent hunger, lack of supervision, untreated medical needs.
Financial abuse (older pupils): loss of money/possessions, sudden financial changes.

5. Reporting Procedures

Step 1: Immediate action

Ensure the child is safe. If in immediate danger, call 999.
Remain calm, listen carefully, reassure the pupil they were right to speak up.

Step 2: Record details

Write down all details promptly using the pupil’s exact words.
Note date, time, and those present.
Keep records factual; avoid personal opinions.

Step 3: Report to DSL

Report concerns immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).
If the DSL (Headteacher) is unavailable, report to the Deputy DSL or Business Manager.
Complete a safeguarding concern form and hand it to the DSL without delay.

Step 4: DSL actions

The DSL will assess the concern, consult with the host school DSL, and, if necessary, contact:
- Leeds Children’s Social Work Services
- The Police
- The Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) if the allegation involves a member of staff

Actions will be taken in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education (2024) and Leeds Safeguarding Children Partnership procedures.

Step 5: Ongoing support

Pupils will be supported through pastoral care, restorative conversations, and, where appropriate, counselling.
Staff must continue to monitor the pupil and pass on any further concerns.

6. Roles and Responsibilities

All staff

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. Staff must:
- Recognise signs of abuse and neglect.
- Report concerns immediately.
- Never promise confidentiality.

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

Lead safeguarding at TPL.
Make referrals to external agencies.
Liaise with host schools, parents/carers (where appropriate), and the LADO.
Keep accurate safeguarding records.

Headteacher/Directors

Ensure this policy is implemented effectively.
Ensure all staff receive safeguarding training.
Support the DSL and oversee compliance.

7. Training

Induction: All staff receive safeguarding and child protection training when they join TPL.
Ongoing: Annual refreshers and regular updates are provided to reflect current legislation and local priorities.

8. Confidentiality and Information Sharing

Staff must not discuss safeguarding concerns with anyone other than the DSL.
Information is shared only on a need-to-know basis.
GDPR is not a barrier to sharing information where a child’s safety is at risk.

9. Monitoring and Review

This policy will be reviewed annually, or sooner if legislation changes or following a significant safeguarding incident.
Feedback from staff, pupils, host schools, and external agencies will inform improvements.

10. Conclusion

TPL is committed to safeguarding all pupils and ensuring swift, decisive, and compassionate action is taken whenever abuse or neglect is suspected. Through vigilance, professional curiosity, and restorative practice, we aim to provide a safe and supportive environment for every child.

Written: August 2025
Next Review: August 2026