This week the DfE published their guidance to schools in this new period of lockdown across England. From a safeguarding perspective these are the key points:

• Update safeguarding and child protection policy 'to reflect the move to remote education for most pupils'
• DSL should be available on-site, but if not 'available to be contacted via phone or online video'
• Social workers should be notified about vulnerable children who need to self-isolate to agree 'the best way to maintain contact and offer support to the vulnerable child or young person.'

Download the guidance 

The government’s Contingency Framework, updated 1 January 2021 says, ‘Schools and FE providers (ideally led by the designated safeguarding lead (DSL) or a deputy) should review their child protection policy so that it reflects the local restrictions and remains effective. In some cases, a coronavirus (COVID-19) annex or addendum that summarises local restriction related changes might be more effective than re-writing and re-issuing the whole policy. It will be important that all staff working in the school or FE provider are aware of the revised policy.’

Download the revised policy

The template for Waltham Forest is available here.

If you have any queries, please email Safeguarding in Education.