JIGSAW AP provides an educational setting that offers tailored support to children and young people who, for various reasons, are not in mainstream education. This includes children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), those who are at risk of exclusion, or those who have been excluded from regular schools. Safeguarding in AP is crucial to ensure that vulnerable children are protected from harm, abuse, and neglect while receiving an appropriate education.

 

Safeguarding is the responsibility of all of our staff, and we take proactive steps to protect children from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. The nature of alternative provision often means that children may face heightened risks due to past experiences, challenging behaviour, or vulnerabilities linked to their educational background. Safeguarding and child protection is at the forefront of our work at JIGSAW AP ensuring that children feel safe, supported, and are able to thrive in an environment that is often different from mainstream schools.

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Child-Centered Approach

At JIGSAW AP we believe Safeguarding policies should always place the child at the centre of our work with them. This means listening to our students, responding to their needs, and ensuring they feel safe to disclose concerns. In delivering on our values, we live a culture where safeguarding is viewed as a priority and an integral part of the educational experience via trust, respect and collaboration.

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Clear Safeguarding Policies and Procedures

Our Safeguarding policies and practices are robust and thorough. These are available via the link below which include;

•Procedures for identifying and reporting concerns about a child’s welfare

•Our Designated Safeguarding Leads

 

Training and Awareness
All of our staff associates have the relevant qualifications and receive regular training on safeguarding practices, including recognising the signs of abuse and neglect, understanding the needs of vulnerable children, and how to handle disclosures. This helps to ensure staff can act quickly and effectively when concerns arise.

 

Multi-Agency Collaboration

One of values we represent and pride our work on is collaboration between schools, local authorities, social services, and other relevant agencies. We seek and strive for early intervention as the key to identifying and addressing safeguarding concerns before they escalate. This multi-agency approach supports the holistic needs of our students, ensuring that all aspects of their well-being are considered.

Risk Assessments and Individual Plans
JIGSAW AP conduct regular risk assessments for each child and put in place individual support plans. These plans outline specific risks and protective factors for each child and highlight the steps staff must take to ensure their safety but important meet the bespoke needs of the child to provide an Inspirational programme. This involves working closely with parents, carers, and external agencies.

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Robust Recruitment Practices
Our staff are all recruited via thorough safer recruitment checks and procedures including enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks, to ensure they are suitable to work with children.

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Safeguarding Environment
The physical and emotional environment of our programmes promote safety and well-being. This includes having clear rules, boundaries, expectations, and policies for behaviour, as well as creating spaces where our students feel comfortable and can express themselves.

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Clear Reporting Mechanisms
JIGSAW AP have clear lines of communication with staff training and awareness on reporting safeguarding held annually.

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Parental and Carer Engagement
Collaboration is a key value we uphold. In this way, ensuring the active involvement of parents and carers is key to promoting safeguarding and a successful, supportive programme.

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At JIGSAW AP our staff training and development is fundamental to recruiting staff members and then developing and retaining our valued team members. Regular training involves;

Mental Health and Well-Being
Many children in AP settings may have mental health issues or experience emotional trauma. Safeguarding in AP should include support for mental health, with appropriate staff trained to recognize signs of emotional distress, anxiety, depression, or suicidal thoughts. Provisions should be made for therapeutic support where necessary.

 

Child Exploitation
Children who are excluded or in AP are often at heightened risk of child sexual exploitation (CSE) and child criminal exploitation (CCE). These children may be more vulnerable to manipulation, grooming, and coercion due to their isolation from mainstream school communities. AP providers should ensure appropriate policies are in place to identify and prevent exploitation, and work with external agencies to monitor and support children at risk.

 

Bullying and Peer Abuse
Bullying, including cyberbullying, can be more pronounced in AP settings where children may have experienced social exclusion or have difficulties with peer relationships. AP providers must create a culture where bullying is not tolerated, and children are supported to build positive relationships with their peers.

 

Radicalisation and Extremism
Children in AP may be at risk of being drawn into extremist ideologies, particularly if they feel alienated from mainstream society. Safeguarding procedures must include measures to prevent radicalisation, in line with the government’s Prevent Duty. Staff should be trained to spot early signs of extremism, and there should be robust reporting systems in place for any concerns.

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