Safeguarding Children and Vulnerable Adults

Quick Guide for Staff
North Warwickshire and Hinckley College

You might become involved because:

People working in education are uniquely placed to notice signs and symptoms of abuse, and to support those subject to abuse and living in abusive situations.

• You may see an injury that cannot be explained

• A child/adult may want to tell you about what is happening to him or her

• Another person may express concern for a child’s/adult’s well being

• You may have noticed significant changes in the way the child/adult performs in college.

What to do:

• Listen – non-judgementally

• Ask open questions to clarify but not to investigate

• Do not promise confidentiality – explain you may need to talk to someone else

• Inform the designated person of your concerns immediately

• Reassure, but avoid unnecessary physical contact

• Record what was said

• Note the context, time and date on your record and sign it

• Avoid judgements and opinions

• Ask for advice about what to do next

• Maintain contact for reassurance

• Be professional; do not discuss the matter openly.

Support available

If you need further advice or support please call ext. 3336 (024 7624 3336) and ask for a member of the Safeguarding team.

The College’s Safeguarding team:

• Annette Guerrini

• Jane Kimberley

• Andy Howarth

• Gail Lomas

• Lesley Lees

Helplines

Childline

0800 11 11

NSPCC Helpline

0800 800 5000