Safeguarding

Dear DPA Families and Friends,

Finally the end of 2021 is here and this is likely to bring different emotions for everyone - even within a family unit. Once again, you have done an incredible job of supporting your child’s education whilst dealing with the ongoing pressures of the pandemic. Christmastime can bring with it much excitement and celebration but this my also add to financial pressure and tensions at home. Throughout the holidays, if you need extra support, you can make contact with the Kent Front Door team who will assess your situation and identify the best route of support for you.

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 at any point you believe that a child is in immediate danger call 999.

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. We look forward to seeing you again in January 2022.

Mrs Haywood