Key Terms

Legislation

are formal laws passed by the UK Parliament. They are the primary source of law in the UK. 

Legislation is legally binding. This means that individuals, organisations, and public bodies must comply with them. Failure to do so can result in legal consequences, such as fines, penalties, or even imprisonment, and can be enforced through the courts 

Statutory Guidance

is issued by government departments or other bodies, often under powers granted to them by an Act of Parliament. It provides advice and recommendations on how to comply with specific laws or implement their provisions. 

Statutory guidance is generally not legally binding in the same way as legislation. However, public bodies (such as local authorities, schools, or health services) are usually required to "have regard" to it. This means they should follow the guidance unless they have a very good reason not to. If a public body deviates from statutory guidance, they may have to justify their decision in court if challenged 

Safeguarding

The action taken to promote the welfare of children and young people to protect them from harm.