Safeguarding

Richard Clarke First School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and expects all staff, parents and volunteers to share this commitment.

This means that we have a Safeguarding Policy in place that all staff (that includes supply staff, volunteers and governors) follow as well as Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance.

Our policies:

RCFS i2e Safeguarding Policy Sept 2026

Keeping_children_safe_in_education_2026

Sometimes we need to share information and work in partnership with other agencies when there is a concern about a child’s welfare. We will ensure that our concerns about pupils are discussed with parents first unless we believe that such a move would be contrary to a child’s welfare.

As a parent, carer, relative, neighbour, member of the public or a professional who has contact with children, you may be concerned about the welfare and safety of your own child or a child you know. These concerns could be about their appearance, behaviour, development or how they are being cared for.

If you need support and advice or have any concerns, please contact:

People in school responsible for safeguarding:

Designated Safeguarding lead: Mrs Kay Hanson – Headteacher
Deputy Safeguarding lead:  Mrs Katie Read – Early Years Lead
Nominated governor for Safeguarding: Mrs Julie Wood, deputy is Mrs Carol Smart

01283 840206 or email headteacher@rcfs.i2e.org.uk

Or

Report a concern (child safeguarding) | Staffordshire County Council

Staffordshire Families Integrated Front Door (SFIFD)

0300 111 8033       8.30am – 5.00pm Monday to Thursday, 8.30am- 4.30pm Friday

or  EDS (out of hours) Tel No. 0345 604 2886

Non-emergency – call Staffordshire Police on 101

If you think a child or young person is at immediate risk of harm – dial 999 to contact the Police.

Operation Encompass

Our school is part of Operation Encompass, a national initiative that helps schools support children who may have experienced or witnessed domestic abuse.

Through Operation Encompass, the police can notify the school when they have attended a domestic a

buse incident involving a child or young person. This allows appropriately trained members of school staff to provide timely and sensitive support, reassurance and a safe space for the child when they arrive at school.

The aim is to make sure children receive the care they need and that they know there are trusted adults in school who can listen and support them.

If you would like to find out more about Operation Encompass, please speak to a member of the school safeguarding team.