We believe that all those who come into contact with children and families in their everyday work have a duty to safeguard and promote the welfare of children.
At Bristol Free School we take safeguarding and child protection issues very seriously. Prior to employment all staff (paid or voluntary) are checked against the government's Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) for their suitability to work with children and young people. Safeguarding forms part of our recruitment process and all interview panels include staff qualified in "safer recruitment" and include elements to further test candidates' suitability to work with children.
On commencement of employment and then annually, staff are also required to complete safeguarding training. Updates on aspects of safeguarding form part of all staff training throughout each year. The school conforms to all aspects of Keeping Children Safe in Education, guidance around Working Together, and local safeguarding partners. This training includes an overview of responsibilities, signs and symptoms as well as advice and guidance about what to do in the event of a concern.
Please find the Bristol Free School Safeguarding Policy and the Safeguarding Procedure here.
The designated safeguarding lead (DSL) for Child Protection is Dan East
The deputy designated safeguarding
lead (DDSL) for Child Protection is Amy Winton.
Meet the BFS Safeguarding Team:
Contacted through Admin (admin@bristolfreeschool.org.uk) and emailed
directly (safeguarding@bristolfreeschool.org.uk).
Protection and First Response Services
In Bristol, these services are provided through the Multi-Agency Service Hub. The school accesses these services for children by referring their needs to the First Response Team. This is also where child protection concerns are referred. It means that additional support for children, whatever their level of need, can be coordinated and managed clearly and effectively. To talk something through with a qualified member of Bristol Free School staff please call the school and ask to speak to Mr East or Mrs Jenkins.
Should a parent or carer have an immediate concern about the safety or well-being of a child they should call the Bristol First Response number 0117 903 6444.
As all schools do, BFS works directly with the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) should any concerns arise regarding adults working with children.
