A 'child' in law is anyone under 18 years of age and safeguarding children is everyone's business.

We recognise that all staff who come into contact with children, young people and their families in their work has a duty to safeguard and promote the welfare of children. We work in partnership with other agencies which include the police, social care, education and the voluntary sector and are members of the two Local Safeguarding Children's Boards.

We are committed to ensuring the safety and the wellbeing of all Children and Young People by;

• Ensuring our staff are safe to work with children and young people by carrying out Criminal Records Bureau checks in line with statutory requirement.
• Having single and multi-agency policies and procedures that are up to date and accessible; these include a Safeguarding policy, a policy for children who do not attend their appointments, a flagging system for children about whom there are concerns and supervision for staff who hold a child protection caseload.
• Delivering a comprehensive programme of safeguarding training at all levels, across the organisation to all Staff.

What should you do if you have a concern about a child?

The Trust Safeguarding team do not provide a service to the public however if you have concerns about a child you should: contact the local authority Children and Young Peoples Services, contact details are available from the local council offices.