Operation Encompass
Since May 2022, our school has been given the opportunity to take part in a pilot project of 'Operation Encompass'. We are one of around 70+ schools taking part in the Newry, Mourne and Down area.
Operation Encompass is a partnership between police and schools, and is aimed at supporting childen who are victims of domestic violence.
Operation Encompass is a simple idea but one that will help us to support and protect vulnerable childen.
When the police attend an incident of domestic violence where one of our pupils is present, they will inform the school's Designated Teacher for Child Protection at the start of the next school day.
This information is shared in strict confidence and school staff are only told on a need to know basis.
We know that when children witness domestic abuse at home, this is a highly traumatic experience for them.
Domestic abuse can impact upon social, psychological, physical, emotional and behavioural outcomes with an often negative impact upon a child’s academic success. Experiencing domestic abuse has been identified as an Adverse Childhood Experience.
By taking part in Operation Encompass, we can provide tailored and compassionate support to our pupils, in line with our ethos. This builds on our existing commitment to child safeguarding.
Following any notification from the police, our staff will provide immediate support to any child who has been the victim of domestic abuse.
Should you wish to find out more information, please contact Mrs Morgan, the school's Designated Teacher for Child Protection.
Alternatively, you can read more about Operation Encompass by clicking on the link below:
