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In todays episode we speak with Natalie Hanna, Headteacher and Executive member of the SSCP, representing the education sector where we explore the evolving role of education within the safeguarding partnerships, both in Somerset, and nationally. 

We highlight the challenges and opportunities faced in integrating education as a statutory partner and the complexities of multi-agency collaboration, the importance of effective communication, and the future aspirations for safeguarding children through education. 

Insights from Natalie provide a valuable perspective on the journey towards a more inclusive safeguarding framework.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Safeguarding Partnerships
02:58 The Role of Education in Safeguarding
05:50 Challenges in Representation and Accountability
09:07 Insights from the Executive Group Experience
11:57 Navigating Complexities of Multi-Agency Work
14:54 Future of Education as a Statutory Partner
18:12 Establishing Effective Communication Channels
20:46 The Education Safeguarding Forum
24:04 Transitioning Leadership and Future Aspirations
26:57 Key Messages for Future Leaders
30:09 Reflections on Systemic Changes
32:53 Conclusion and Future Directions

Reflective Questions:

1. How can we ensure that the voice of all educational settings—including early years, alternative provision, and independent schools—is effectively represented in safeguarding discussions and decisions?
This question encourages teams to reflect on inclusivity and representation, especially in light of the fragmented education system Natalie describes.

2. In what ways can we reduce duplication and streamline safeguarding processes between schools, trusts, and local authorities to minimize workload and maximize impact?
This addresses the concern Natalie raised about overlapping audits and the need for better alignment between different safeguarding bodies.

3. How can we strengthen communication and collaboration between education and other safeguarding partners (e.g., health, police, social care) to bridge the gap between early help and crisis response?
This invites reflection on the systemic divide Natalie observed between education’s preventative focus and other agencies’ reactive roles.

4. What structures or forums do we need to establish or improve to ensure that safeguarding insights from the ground level are fed into strategic decision-making?
This question supports thinking about sustainability and the importance of feedback loops, as highlighted by the creation of the Education Safeguarding Forum.

Further details of topics discussed can be found on the SSCP Website: somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk

If you have any comments or questions from this podcast, or would like to be involved in a future episode please get in touch at ThePPod@somerset.gov.uk

To access the transcript for this episode go to The P Pod (somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk) and click on the episode for details.