Safeguarding & Child Protection Policy Summary

At OurPlace Learning Community, safeguarding the welfare of children, young people, vulnerable adults, staff, volunteers, and visitors is our highest priority. We are committed to fostering a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and protected from harm.

Key Principles

  • Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility, and we promote a culture of vigilance and openness.

  • All concerns about safety or abuse are taken seriously, reported promptly, and responded to appropriately.

  • We listen to and prioritise the voices and experiences of children and young people.

  • We support the ongoing professional development of our staff to uphold safeguarding standards.

Leadership and Roles

  • The Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and Deputy DSL oversee all safeguarding matters and act as primary contacts for concerns.

  • Learning Group Advisers (LGAs) provide regular, trusted support to students and help identify safeguarding issues at an early stage.

  • All staff and volunteers are trained to recognise the signs of abuse and understand how to respond.

Commitment to Safety

  • We comply fully with UK legislation and statutory guidance to protect children and vulnerable individuals.

  • Robust procedures are in place for reporting concerns, managing allegations, and handling confidential information securely and sensitively.

  • We provide tailored support for vulnerable groups, including children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

  • We promote online safety, healthy relationships, and resilience to safeguard against a wide range of risks.

Reporting and Support

  • Immediate risks are escalated to emergency services and relevant local authorities.

  • All safeguarding concerns are documented and securely managed.

  • We work collaboratively with families, external agencies, and safeguarding partners to ensure the best outcomes for those in our care.

OurPlace Learning Community is dedicated to continuously reviewing and enhancing safeguarding practices to maintain a safe and supportive environment for all.

Key contacts

Our Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) is Jessie Beagley. The Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL) is Tracy Griffin. Both can be contacted at: safeguarding@ourplacelearningcommunity.org.uk.

Close-up of a woman with blonde hair, wearing clear glasses, smiling, with a white background.

Jessie Beagley
Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

A middle-aged woman with shoulder-length gray hair, blue eyes, and light skin, wearing a sleeveless black top and a silver necklace with a circular pendant, smiles subtly in front of a plain beige background.

Tracy Griffin
Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL)