Safeguarding
Safeguarding at Heather Garth
At Heather Garth Primary Academy the health, safety and well-being of every child is our top priority. We expect all staff, governors and volunteers to share this commitment to safeguarding our pupils.
We listen to our pupils and take seriously what they tell us. All school staff are trained in Child Protection, and children are made aware of the adults they can talk to if they have any concerns. Staff are trained to look out for signs of physical/emotional harm or neglect and are required to report these to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).
The procedures which we follow have been laid down by the Barnsley Council Safeguarding Team and the school has adopted a Safeguarding Policy in line with this, for the safety of all. On rare occasions our concern about a child may mean that we have to consult other agencies. We will ensure that all concerns are discussed with parent/carers first, before any referrals are made, unless we believe that such a move may be contrary to a child’s welfare.
The Designated Safeguarding Lead is Mrs Jayne Winnard (Head Teacher)
The Deputy Safeguarding Leads are Mrs Paula Bennett (Family Engagement)
Mrs M Bower (Assistant Headteacher) and Mrs Gail Slater (Business Manager)
The Safeguarding Governor is Mrs Sandra Farr
If you require any further information please contact Mrs Jayne Winnard or Mrs Paula Bennett via the school office.
Early Help
Why early help is important
Early help can offer children the support needed to reach their full potential. It can improve the quality of a child’s home and family life, enable them to perform better at school and support their mental health.
Providing timely support is vital. Addressing a child or family's needs early on can reduce risk factors and increase protective factors in a child's life. It is more effective to provide early help when problems first arise than to intervene later.
Early help can also support a child to develop strengths and skills that can prepare them for adult life (Early Intervention Foundation (EIF), 2018).
Useful links:
Safeguarding Children in Barnsley
Being a parent is extremely rewarding, but sometimes it isn't easy. You can find out more about how to keep your child safe here, and how to get help if you're having some family difficulties.
Keeping Children Safe in Education 2019
COVID - 19 Support
If you are struggling to talk to your child about Covid 19, we have attached a link to the NSPCC website that may support you at this time.
Talking to a child worried about coronavirus (COVID-19)
Financial Hardship
If you need support finicially during this time, due to a change in circumstance, you may find some help on the leaflet at the bottom of the page.
Domestic abuse
If you need help during the Covid-19 outbreak at the bottom of the page is a link containing information/instructions and contact numbers to support you at this time.
Resource Packs from Public Health
You will find at the bottom of the page two resource packs one for children and one for parent/carers to support the 'stay at home' measures. There are lots of links to websites that may help you as a family at this time.
Alcohol Change UK's information and advice hub
This link contains information and advice on alcohol use, including tips for managing drinking and links to support.
https://alcoholchange.org.uk/help-and-support/get-help-now/coronavirus-information-and-advice-hub
Bereavement Support
If you are one of the unfortunate ones who have have experienced a breavement during this time, our thoughts and support go out to you as a family. We are here for you at this time, but you may also find some extra help on the leaflet at the bottom of the page.
Here’s the digital version of the Safeguarding Awareness leaflet, published jointly by Barnsley Safeguarding Children Partnership and Safeguarding Adults Board, as part of resources for South Yorkshire’s Safeguarding Awareness Week. Please click on the link below to access the information. A digital version of the flyer can also be found in the files below.