Safeguarding
Keeping Every Child Safe
At Catshill Middle School, keeping children safe is our highest priority.
We are committed to creating a caring, nurturing environment where every pupil feels happy, respected, and protected from harm. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility — staff, governors, parents, and carers all play a part in helping our children stay safe, both in and out of school.
Our Safeguarding Team
Our trained safeguarding team is here to listen and help.
If you ever have a concern about a child’s welfare or safety, please contact us straight away.
Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): Miss B Doidge
Deputy Safeguarding Leads: Miss J Shingler, Mrs D Baker. Mrs T Andrews, Mrs S Dix
Safeguarding Governor: Kirsty Byrom
📞 Contact: 015278720431
📧 Email: Safeguarding CMS
If you are a pupil at Catshill Middle School and you are worried about yourself, your friend or a member of your family, you can talk to any member of staff.
If you are a member of the public and would like to remain anonymous, you can contact the safeguarding team directly. If you need to contact us, you can do so by using this link: Worry Box
If you believe a child is at immediate risk of harm, please contact the Police on 999 or our local Children’s Services: Worcestershire County Council Family Front Door.
Staff are available:
Monday to Thursday from 9.00am to 5.00pm and Fridays from 9.00am to 4.30pm telephone:
01905 822666
For assistance out of office hours (weekdays and all day at weekends and bank holidays), telephone:
01905 768020
Getting Urgent Advice
Child Exploitation and Online Protection command.
CEOP help children stay safe online. If anybody acts inappropriately towards you or another child or young person online (such as sexual chat, or being asked to do something that makes you feel uncomfortable); you can report it here.
Our Whole-School Approach to Safeguarding
Safeguarding runs through every part of school life — from classroom learning to staff training and community partnerships. We take a proactive, preventative approach, ensuring that children know how to stay safe and that staff are confident in identifying and responding to concerns quickly and effectively.
Our whole-school approach includes:
Curriculum and Assemblies – We teach pupils about safety, wellbeing, and healthy relationships through PSHE, RSHE, online safety lessons, and assemblies.
Staff Training – All staff receive regular safeguarding training, ensuring they can recognise signs of abuse or neglect and respond appropriately.
Pupil Voice – We encourage pupils to speak openly about worries or concerns, and we make sure they know who they can talk to for help. We use feedback from Catshill Congress to help make improvements.
Policies and Procedures – We follow national and local safeguarding guidance, including Keeping Children Safe in Education, to ensure robust reporting and response systems are in place.
Partnership Working – We work closely with parents, carers, social care, health professionals, and the police to protect children and support families.
Safe Environment – Our site, recruitment processes, and practices are designed to keep everyone in our school community safe.
Working Together
Safeguarding at Catshill Federation is not just about responding to concerns — it’s about building a culture of safety, trust, and care for every child. We believe children are safest when home and school work together. If you ever have a concern — no matter how small — please talk to us. We are here to listen and to help.
Safeguarding Topics
For more information on any of the following topics which may be impacting you, your child or someone you know, please click the drop-down arrow for useful explanations and YouTube clips.
Abuse
Understanding Abuse
At our school, safeguarding every child is our highest priority. It’s important that all parents and carers understand what abuse is and how to recognise the signs. Abuse can take many forms — it is any action or behaviour that causes harm to a child or young person, whether physically, emotionally, or through neglect.
Recognising the different types of abuse helps us all to protect children effectively.
Emotional Abuse
Emotional abuse happens when a child is regularly made to feel worthless, unloved, or rejected. This can include constant criticism, humiliation, shouting, ignoring, or manipulating a child’s emotions. Over time, emotional abuse can seriously harm a child’s self-esteem and emotional development.
Physical Abuse
Physical abuse is when someone deliberately causes physical harm to a child. This can include hitting, shaking, burning, or any other action that results in injury. Children may sometimes be told the abuse is their fault or that it’s a form of punishment — it never is. No child should ever be physically harmed.
Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse involves forcing, pressuring, or tricking a child into taking part in any kind of sexual activity. It can happen in person or online, and it may not always involve physical contact. Sexual abuse is always a serious crime and can have lasting effects on a child’s wellbeing.
Neglect
Neglect occurs when a child’s basic physical or emotional needs are not being met. This might include lack of food, clothing, shelter, supervision, medical care, or emotional support. Every child has the right to be properly cared for, kept safe, and supported to thrive.
Alcohol Awareness
It’s important for parents and carers to understand how alcohol can affect young people. Drinking alcohol — especially to the point of getting drunk — can have a significant impact on the way a person thinks, feels, and behaves.
Sometimes, young people may turn to alcohol as a way of coping with stress, anxiety, or personal worries. However, drinking at a young age can be very risky. It can affect physical health, emotional wellbeing, decision-making, and personal safety.
By talking openly about the effects of alcohol and setting clear, supportive boundaries, parents and carers can play a key role in helping children and teenagers make safer, healthier choices.
Anxiety
It’s completely normal for children and adults to feel anxious, stressed, or panicked in certain situations. These feelings are part of the body’s natural “fight or flight” response to situations that feel challenging, risky, or unsafe.
However, if feelings of anxiety become constant or overwhelming — and begin to affect daily life, school attendance, relationships, or wellbeing — it may be a sign that additional support is needed.
Some children may experience school avoidance as a result of anxiety. This can appear as frequent physical complaints (such as headaches or stomach aches) before school, difficulty separating from parents or carers, or distress when thinking about attending school. While this behaviour can be worrying, it’s important to remember that it is often a symptom of underlying anxiety rather than defiance.
If you notice persistent signs of anxiety in your child, or if they tell you they are struggling to cope, it’s important to talk to someone. Speaking with a teacher, the school’s pastoral or safeguarding team, a school counsellor, or your GP can help ensure they receive the right support and guidance. Working together, we can help children feel safe, confident, and ready to learn.
Bullying
Bullying can take many different forms and can happen to anyone, in any setting — including at school, online, or within friendship groups. It may be verbal, physical, emotional, or take place through social media and messaging platforms.
While some types of bullying are more visible, others can be harder to spot but are equally harmful. Any form of bullying can have a lasting impact on a child’s confidence, wellbeing, and sense of safety.
At our school, we take all reports of bullying seriously. We encourage parents and carers to talk to their children about their experiences, and to contact the school if they have any concerns. Working together helps ensure every child feels respected, valued, and safe.
Parent Guide to supporting a child with bullying
Online Bullying: It Doesn't Have To Be Like This | Childline
Child-on-Child Abuse (Peer-on-Peer Abuse)
Abuse doesn’t only happen between adults and children — sometimes it can occur between children and young people themselves. This is known as child-on-child abuse (or peer-on-peer abuse). It can happen both in school and outside of school, including online.
Child-on-child abuse can take many forms, including:
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Bullying (including online or cyberbullying)
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Physical abuse, such as hitting, kicking, or other forms of violence
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Sexual harassment or assault
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Harmful sexual behaviour, including inappropriate touching or sexualised language
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Emotional or coercive behaviour, such as controlling friendships or spreading rumours
These behaviours are never acceptable and should not be dismissed as “just part of growing up.” They can have a serious and lasting impact on a young person’s wellbeing, confidence, and education.
If you are concerned that your child — or another young person — may be involved in or affected by child-on-child abuse, please speak to the school’s Safeguarding Team immediately. The school will respond sensitively, take concerns seriously, and ensure appropriate support is put in place for everyone involved.
Coping with Bereavement and Loss
The death of someone close can be one of the most difficult experiences for a child or young person to face. These feelings are often described as grief, and everyone experiences them differently.
It’s completely natural for a child to have strong emotional reactions when someone they care about dies. They might feel:
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Overwhelmed or unable to cope
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Confused, scared, or angry
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Numb or detached
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Worried that they will never feel okay again
Grief can also arise when a pet dies, or when someone important is no longer present in a child’s life — for example, after a family breakdown or moving away. These experiences can be just as painful and deserve understanding and support.
Children and young people need time and reassurance as they process loss. There’s no “right” way to grieve, and emotions can change over time. Encouraging open conversations, offering comfort, and seeking help from the school or specialist bereavement services can all make a positive difference.
Contextual Safeguarding
Safeguarding doesn’t just apply to what happens at home — harm and abuse can also occur outside of the family environment. Contextual safeguarding recognises that a child’s safety can be influenced by the different settings and relationships they experience in their daily lives.
Children and young people may be at risk of harm in a range of contexts, such as:
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Within peer groups, through bullying, pressure, or coercive relationships
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In the local community, including anti-social behaviour, exploitation, or gang involvement
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Online, through social media, gaming, or contact with strangers
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In public places, such as parks, shops, or transport settings
By understanding and addressing these wider influences, schools, families, and local agencies can work together to protect children wherever risks may occur.
Domestic Abuse
Domestic abuse can take many forms and is not always easy to recognise. It occurs when one adult in a family or relationship uses bullying, control, coercion, or violence to gain power over another. This can include physical harm, emotional or verbal abuse, financial control, or isolating someone from friends and family.
Children and young people who witness or experience domestic abuse — even if they are not directly harmed — can be deeply affected. Living in an environment where there is fear, conflict, or intimidation can have a serious impact on their emotional wellbeing, sense of safety, and development.
If you are experiencing or suspect domestic abuse, support is available. Please speak confidentially with a member of the school’s Safeguarding Team, or contact local or national helplines for guidance and protection. No one should ever feel unsafe in their own home.
Drugs & Energy Drinks
There are many reasons why young people might experiment with or be exposed to drugs. Some may try them because of curiosity, peer pressure, or a desire to fit in with friends. Others might believe that using drugs will help them cope with difficult emotions such as sadness, stress, or problems at home or school. For some, the attraction may come from the sense of risk or rebellion associated with doing something illegal.
In some cases, young people may be pressured, dared, or even forced to take drugs. This can make them feel frightened, trapped, or unsure how to say no.
It’s important for parents and carers to talk openly and calmly about the risks of drug use, helping children understand the potential effects on their health, safety, and future. Creating a trusting environment where a young person feels able to talk without fear of judgment is one of the most effective ways to protect them and offer support if they’re struggling.
How Marijuana Affects Your Developing Brain
Eating
Eating problems can take many forms, including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, or other unhealthy patterns of eating. These issues can affect a child’s physical health, emotional wellbeing, and daily life.
If you are concerned about your child’s relationship with food, it’s important to seek support early. Schools can offer guidance, pastoral support, and help connect families with specialist services, including healthcare professionals and eating disorder support organisations.
Remember, you are not alone — early intervention and understanding can make a significant difference to a child’s recovery and wellbeing.
Find more information on our Mental Health & Wellbeing page
Do I Have An Eating Problem? ft. Melanie Murphy | Voice Box | Childline
Exploitation - Child Trafficking
Exploitation occurs when children and young people are tricked, forced, or persuaded to leave their homes and are then exploited through work, sexual activity, or other forms of abuse. Both child trafficking and exploitation are serious forms of child abuse.
Children and young people can be trafficked into the UK from other countries, as well as within the UK. They may be moved across towns, cities, or even within the same community.
Sexual exploitation can be particularly difficult for a young person to recognise. They may feel trapped, coerced, or pressured into situations that make them uncomfortable or that they do not want to be part of.
If you suspect a child may be a victim of exploitation or trafficking, it is essential to contact the school’s Safeguarding Team immediately. Early intervention can protect them from serious harm and ensure they receive the support and safety they need.
Exploitation - Criminal
Criminal exploitation is a form of child abuse in which children and young people are manipulated, coerced, or pressured into taking part in criminal activities. This can include theft, drug-related crimes, or other illegal actions.
Signs that a child may be experiencing criminal exploitation can include:
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Receiving threats, blackmail, or experiencing violence
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Being forced or pressured to commit crimes
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Feeling unable to leave or cut ties with a gang or group
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Having their own safety or the safety of friends and family threatened
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Being at risk of serious physical harm, sexual abuse, or even death
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Involvement with drugs, alcohol, or other substances
Children and young people who are exploited often feel trapped, isolated, and scared. If you suspect your child may be at risk, it is crucial to contact the school’s Safeguarding Team immediately. Early intervention can protect them from serious harm and provide the support they need to stay safe.
Exploitation - Sexual
Child sexual exploitation (CSE) is a form of child abuse where a young person is manipulated, coerced, or forced into taking part in sexual activity. This can include situations where they are persuaded to engage in sexual acts in exchange for money, gifts, attention, or affection.
Children and young people may feel confused, trapped, or unable to refuse, and the abuse can happen both in person and online. Those experiencing sexual exploitation may:
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Appear withdrawn, anxious, or fearful
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Spend time with unknown or older individuals
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Receive unexplained gifts, money, or attention
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Miss school, become isolated, or have changes in behaviour
Sexual exploitation is always abuse, even if the child appears to consent or takes part willingly. It can have long-lasting physical, emotional, and psychological effects.
If you suspect a child may be at risk of sexual exploitation, it is essential to contact the school’s Safeguarding Team immediately. Prompt action and support can protect them from further harm and connect them with specialist help.
Family Conflict or Separation
It’s normal for parents and carers to disagree from time to time. However, when arguments happen frequently or become intense, they can cause children and young people to feel anxious, confused, or worried about what might happen next.
Children often fear that conflict between parents means a separation or divorce is coming. It’s important to reassure them that disagreements are a part of many relationships and do not always mean a family will break up.
If a separation or divorce does occur, children may experience a wide range of emotions — sadness, guilt, anger, or confusion. They may also worry about their future or feel responsible for what’s happening. It’s vital they understand that they are never to blame for adult relationship problems.
Parents and carers can help by maintaining open, age-appropriate communication, offering reassurance, and providing stability where possible. If your child is struggling to cope, please reach out to the school’s pastoral or safeguarding team for advice and support.
Female Genital Mutilation / Cutting
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a serious form of child abuse that involves the removal or alteration of a girl’s external genitalia. FGM is illegal in the UK and can have long-lasting physical and emotional consequences.
FGM is extremely distressing, and it is important to know that no one should have to experience it alone. Children and young people at risk of FGM may need urgent support and protection.
If you are concerned that a child may be at risk, or if someone has experienced FGM, please contact the school’s Safeguarding Team immediately. Early intervention can protect children and ensure they receive the help and support they need.
Forced Marriage
Forced marriage is a serious form of abuse in which someone is made to marry against their will. It is illegal in the UK, but it can still occur in secret and may sometimes be planned or pressured by parents, family members, or community or religious leaders.
Forced marriage can involve physical, sexual, or emotional abuse, and it can have long-lasting effects on a child’s wellbeing, safety, and freedom.
If you suspect a child may be at risk of forced marriage, it is essential to contact the school’s Safeguarding Team immediately. Early intervention can protect the child and connect them with specialist support services.
Honour-Based Abuse (HBA)
Honour-Based Abuse (HBA) refers to crimes committed to protect or defend the perceived honour of a family or community. It can happen when someone is believed to have brought “shame” by behaving in a way that goes against cultural or religious expectations.
HBA can take many forms, including:
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Physical violence or threats
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Emotional or psychological abuse
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Forced marriage
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Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)
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Controlling or isolating behaviour
These actions are abuse and are against the law. Honour-based abuse can have a serious impact on a child or young person’s safety, freedom, and emotional wellbeing.
If you are concerned that a child may be at risk of honour-based abuse, it is vital to contact the school’s Safeguarding Team immediately. The school will act swiftly and sensitively, working with appropriate agencies to ensure the child’s safety and protection.
Homelessness
Homelessness doesn’t always mean living on the streets. A child or young person can be considered homeless if they do not have a safe, stable, or permanent place to live. This can include situations such as:
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Sleeping rough on the streets
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Staying temporarily with friends or family (“sofa surfing”)
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Living in temporary accommodation with family
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Staying in a B&B or squatting in a property
A child may also be considered homeless if they are able to stay at home but it is unsafe due to abuse, neglect, or other risks.
If you are concerned that a child is homeless or at risk of homelessness, it is important to contact the school’s Safeguarding Team. Early support can help ensure their safety and connect them with housing and welfare services.
Mental Health
Mental health is about a child’s overall emotional, psychological, and social wellbeing. It affects how they:
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Feel about themselves
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Manage their emotions
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Believe in their ability to overcome challenges
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Interact and form relationships with others
It is normal for children to have ups and downs. Some days they may feel confident and positive, while at other times they might feel stressed, anxious, or low.
However, if a child’s thoughts and feelings remain negative over time, or begin to significantly affect their daily life, relationships, or school attendance, it could be a sign of a mental health condition.
Parents and carers are encouraged to talk openly with their child and seek support from the school’s pastoral or safeguarding team, a counsellor, or a GP. Early intervention and understanding can make a significant difference in a child’s wellbeing and development.
Online Safety
The internet is an important part of children’s lives, offering opportunities to learn, play, and connect with others. However, it also brings risks that parents and carers should be aware of.
Online safety means helping children use technology responsibly and protecting them from harm when using phones, tablets, gaming platforms, and social media. The main areas of risk can be remembered as the 4 Cs:
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Content – being exposed to harmful or inappropriate material, such as violence, pornography, or misinformation.
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Contact – being targeted by strangers or groomed by individuals online.
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Conduct – behaving in ways that could cause harm to themselves or others, such as cyberbullying or sharing personal information.
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Commerce – being exposed to scams, in-app purchases, or fake advertising that could lead to financial or data loss.
Parents and carers can help by keeping communication open, setting clear boundaries, and encouraging children to talk about anything online that makes them feel uncomfortable or worried. If you are ever concerned about your child’s online activity or safety, please speak to the school’s Safeguarding Team for advice and support.
Radicalisation and Extremism
Schools play an important role in protecting children and young people from radicalisation and extremist influences. Radicalisation happens when someone is encouraged to adopt extreme views or beliefs that support violence, hatred, or discrimination. This can happen in person or online, through social media, gaming platforms, or contact with individuals or groups.
Children and young people may be more vulnerable to extremist messages if they are feeling isolated, angry, or searching for a sense of belonging or identity.
Signs to look out for may include:
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Expressing extreme views or intolerance towards others
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Withdrawing from friends and family
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Spending increasing time online or with a new group of people
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Showing a strong sense of anger, grievance, or injustice
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Using language or symbols linked to extremist groups
If you are worried that your child — or another young person — may be at risk of radicalisation, it’s important to speak to the school’s Safeguarding Team immediately. The school works closely with local safeguarding partners and the Prevent programme to ensure children are supported early and protected from harm.
Sexting and Online Sexual Content
Sexting refers to sending, receiving, or sharing sexual messages, images, or videos, often through mobile phones or online platforms. This can include images or videos of a person who is partly or completely naked, posing in a sexual way, or engaging in sexual activity.
Young people may share such content with a friend, partner, or someone they’ve met online — but it’s important to understand that creating, sending, or sharing sexual images of anyone under 18 is illegal, even if the young person involved has consented.
Sometimes, children and young people are pressured, coerced, or tricked into sending images or messages. This can make them feel scared, ashamed, or trapped, particularly if the content is shared without their permission.
If you discover or suspect that your child has been involved in sexting or has received inappropriate messages, it’s important to stay calm, offer reassurance, and contact the school’s Safeguarding Team for advice. The school can help manage the situation sensitively and connect families with appropriate support.
The School’s Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy is based on legal duties set out in the Children Acts 1989 and 2004, the Children and Families Act 2014, section 175 of the Education Act 2002 (as amended), the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014 (for independent schools), the Non-maintained Special Schools (England) Regulations 2015 (for non-maintained special schools), and on statutory guidance including Working Together to Safeguard Children 2023 and Keeping Children Safe in Education 2025.