Safeguarding
As the Christmas holidays approach, with potentially wet and cold weather and possibly even new electronic devices as presents, please think about the risks that your child faces online and support them with this.
We advise:
The internet should only be used in open spaces at home where you can see and hear what is going on.
No use of devices, especially those with cameras and internet access, out of sight such as in bedrooms.
Set boundaries for screen time at home and plan for ‘wind down’ time prior to bedtime.
Sit with your child and join in online games and conversations so that you know what they are doing and who they are talking to.
Know your child’s passwords should you need to get into their devices or accounts in an emergency.
Set up the appropriate parental controls on devices, networks, apps and websites but beware that these alone will not keep your child safe.
Talk to your child about how to stay safe online, what the risks might be and what to do if something happens or is worrying them.
For more information see: Internet connected devices | NSPCC
Why not sign up to our National Online Safety website for even more top tips? https://nationalonlinesafety.com/enrol/dartford-primary-academy
This is an ever-evolving area of safeguarding and it is important we all work together to keep your children safe.
During the holiday, if you’re ‘Worried About a Child’?
If at any point you believe that a child is in immediate danger, call 999.
You can self-refer via:
03000 41 11 11 (text relay 18001 03000 41 11 11) or email
social.services@kent.gov.uk
Although this is the pathway that can take a concern to social services it also the way to access Kent’s ‘Early Help’ services which include support if:
you are worried about your child's behaviour
you are struggling to cope
you are worried about your family finances
your child is struggling to cope with bereavement
your child is being bullied
your child refuses to go to school or college
you or your child want to develop new friends and have new experiences
you are having difficulties with family relationships.
Please do not hesitate to make use of this service if you at all feel you need to.
If you’re concerned that a child is being abused but is not in immediate danger you can contact the NSPCC or the Kent Children’s Services Team on 03000 41 11 11
Please take care and stay safe,
Mrs Haywood
Vice Principal and Designated Safeguarding Lead