Safeguarding at the Southwark Diocesan Board of Education
Our Commitment to Safeguarding
The Southwark Diocesan Board of Education is committed to promoting the welfare, safety and flourishing of every child, young person and adult with whom we work.
We believe that safeguarding is at the heart of a thriving Church school. Every child has the right to feel safe, valued, respected and listened to, and every adult involved in education has a responsibility to create environments in which children can flourish.
Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility. We expect the highest standards of safeguarding practice across all schools, trusts and organisations with which we work and are committed to supporting leaders in developing strong safeguarding cultures that go beyond compliance and are embedded in the daily life of the school.
Our Role
The statutory responsibility for safeguarding children rests with schools, trusts, local authorities and other safeguarding partners. As a Diocesan Board of Education, our role is to support, challenge and advise Church schools in meeting their safeguarding responsibilities and maintaining effective safeguarding arrangements.
We work closely with school leaders, governors, trusts, local authorities, diocesan colleagues and other agencies to promote safe practice and strengthen safeguarding across our family of schools.
How We Support Schools
Our support includes:
- Professional advice and guidance on safeguarding matters
- Training and continuing professional development for leaders and governors
- Support with safeguarding audits and reviews
- Guidance on safeguarding governance and oversight
- Advice on managing complex safeguarding situations
- Support for schools following serious incidents or concerns
- Opportunities for leaders to share good practice and learn from one another
Our approach recognises that effective safeguarding is not simply about policies and procedures. It is about culture, leadership, vigilance and ensuring that children's welfare remains at the centre of decision-making.
Reporting a Concern
If you believe a child or adult is at immediate risk of harm, you should contact the emergency services or the relevant local authority safeguarding team without delay.
Queries relating to safeguarding within SDBE schools should normally be directed in the first instance to the relevant school or trust safeguarding lead. Where appropriate, the SDBE can offer advice and signposting to further support.
Safeguarding Contacts
SDBE Safeguarding Lead: [Name]
Email: safeguarding@southwark.anglican.org
Telephone: [number]
If a child is at immediate risk of harm, contact 999.
Policies and Guidance
The following documents are available to support our safeguarding work can be found on our policies page:
- SDBE Safeguarding Policy
- Safer Recruitment Statement
- Relevant safeguarding guidance and resources