Blackbrook School recognises that high self-esteem, confidence, supportive friends and clear lines of communication with a trusted adult help all children, especially those at risk of, or suffering from, abuse.

In our school, we have:

• An ethos where children feel secure, are encouraged to talk and are listened to. This is inherent within our school values.
• Established that pupils know there are adults in the school who they can approach if they are worried or are in difficulty.
• Included in the curriculum the knowledge and skills they need to stay safe from abuse and which will help them develop realistic attitudes to the responsibilities of adult life in Modern Britain.
• Ensured that wherever possible every effort will be made to establish effective working relationships with parents and colleagues with other agencies.

Our Safeguarding Policy is updated annually, and is available on the policies page of the school website.

The Safeguarding Team at Blackbrook School

As a Trust, and within our school, we take our safeguarding responsibilities extremely seriously.

All staff and volunteers at the school receive annual child protection and safeguarding training and are aware of the processes to report concerns about children.

If any members of the school or local community have concerns about the welfare of a child, you are encouraged to report these to the Safeguarding Team. You can request to speak with a member of the Safeguarding Team or complete the online form to make us aware of your concerns. We are trained to ensure that the appropriate agencies are informed.

The team consists of key staff who work with the children and families. Whilst the pupils are encouraged to speak with any member of staff with whom they feel comfortable to share with, they are also encouraged to 'follow the rainbow'. Members of the Safeguarding Team are easily identifiable with their rainbow lanyards.

The Designated Safeguarding Lead is Mr D. Seviour, Headteacher. He is responsible for receiving and acting upon concerns about the safety and wellbeing of children. In his absence, the individuals below can also be contacted for support:

Mr T. Sime (Deputy Headteacher)

Kelly Brooks (Pastoral Lead)

Mrs. Louisa Blackmore (Trust Strategic Safeguarding Lead)

The Safeguarding Governor is Sue Morkane. 

Is a Child in Immediate Danger?

• Contact Children’s Social Care on 0300 123 222, or by email at childrens@somerset.gov.uk
• You can contact the police directly by dialling 101 and they will discuss with Children’s Social Care what action should be taken. 
• In an emergency always contact the police by dialling 999.
• If you would like to speak to a social worker outside of office hours please phone the Emergency Duty Team (EDT) on 0300 123 23 27