Safeguarding Advice for All Visitors
Safeguarding Advice for All Visitors
Welcome to Abercerdin Primary School
Mrs. Helen Gentle, Headteacher, extends a warm welcome to all visitors. At Abercerdin Primary School, we prioritise the safety, well-being, and happiness of our pupils. Our safeguarding procedures are in place to ensure all children feel safe and are protected from harm. We kindly ask all visitors to familiarise themselves with this important safeguarding guidance.
Keeping Everyone Safe
UNCRC: Article 19
“You should not be harmed, be looked after and kept safe!”
Safeguarding at Abercerdin Primary School
We have rigorous child protection procedures aligned with Local Authority guidelines. Our safeguarding responsibilities include:
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Preventing children from being neglected or abused
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Identifying signs and symptoms of abuse or harm
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Recording and reporting incidents, issues, and concerns
What Does Safeguarding Include?
Safeguarding is not just about protecting children from deliberate harm. It also includes:
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Pupils’ health and safety
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Preventing and addressing bullying, racism, homophobia, harassment, and discrimination
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Managing behaviour and appropriate physical intervention
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Supporting pupils with medical conditions
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Providing first aid
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Preventing drug and substance misuse
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Ensuring safety during educational visits
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Promoting online safety
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Maintaining school security
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Identifying and preventing radicalisation and extremism
Your Safeguarding Responsibility While at Abercerdin
As a visitor, you have a duty to support children’s safety and well-being. You may notice safeguarding concerns, such as visible injuries, concerning statements, or neglect. If you have any concerns, it is crucial to report them to one of our Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSLs).
Designated Safeguarding Leads:
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Mrs. Helen Gentle – Headteacher
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Miss. Sophie Locke – Deputy Headteacher
If neither of these individuals is available, please report your concern to:
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Mrs. Sarah Walters - Teacher
What Should You Do if a Child Discloses to You?
At Abercerdin, we follow the 5Rs approach:
1. Receive
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Listen carefully without displaying shock or disbelief.
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Accept what the child is saying and do not attempt to investigate.
2. Reassure
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Be supportive and honest.
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Do not make promises you cannot keep (e.g., “Everything will be fine now”).
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Do not promise confidentiality—explain that you must share the information with those who can help.
3. React
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Ask open-ended questions if necessary, using “TED”:
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T – Tell me a little more about it?
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E – Can you explain what happened?
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D – Can you describe what happened?
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4. Record (My Concern)
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Write/type down the child's exact words as soon as possible.
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Date and time your notes.
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Do not destroy notes, as they may be required as evidence.
5. Report
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Pass the information to the Designated Safeguarding Lead immediately.
Key Safety Information for Visitors
Lockdown Procedures
In the unlikely event of a lockdown, follow staff instructions immediately. Stay quiet and follow school safety protocols.
Fire Procedures
In case of fire, follow the emergency evacuation plan displayed around the school. Staff will guide you to the nearest exit and assembly point.
Signing In & DBS Checks
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All visitors must sign in at reception and wear a visitor badge at all times.
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If you are in school regularly or working directly with children, a DBS check may be required.
First Aid
If you require first aid or witness an incident, please report it to a staff member immediately.
