Reporting concerns to Children's Services
What is safeguarding?
Safeguarding means using appropriate measures to protect children and adults from harm, neglect and abuse and in doing so, promote their health and wellbeing. Safeguarding is the responsibility of all adults in society, including parents, teachers and social workers.
What are the key issues to think about when safeguarding children with SEND?
The NSPCC reports that children with special educational needs and disabilities are up to three times more likely to experience abuse than other children.
Abuse can take many forms, which include emotional, physical and sexual abuse, and neglect. Bullying can also be a cause for concern.
Some special educational needs, disabilities or health conditions can increase a child's vulnerability. They might have difficulties recognising or understanding abuse, be unable to communicate that they are being abused or neglected, and be dependent on the abuser to meet their physical needs.
What should I do if I have a safeguarding concern about a child?
If you think you are seeing signs of harm or abuse, you have a duty to report it to Surrey Children's Single Point of Access (SPA), which is part of Children's Services.
In an emergency, you should call 999.
What if Children's Services have been contacted with concerns about my children?
If you have been feeling that you're struggling to cope and are in need of more support, a professional that already knows you might have contacted Children's Services on your behalf.
In some instances, Children's Services are able to offer families with children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) additional support.
Children's Services have a duty to make appropriate enquiries when concerns are raised about children. Depending on the nature of the concerns, you will usually be contacted by a social worker over the telephone. This is to discuss the concerns, and gives you the opportunity to offer your viewpoint.
During this initial conversation, you may be asked what professionals are involved with your family already (such as teachers and GP) and asked for permission for Children's Services to contact them. You should be informed of the outcome of any enquiries made.
Where can I get advice and support about being referred to Children's Services?
Parents may feel very anxious about a referral being made to Children's Services about their child.
It can be reassuring to contact an organisation for impartial advice and support. The following organisations can help:
You can also search our Local Offer Directory for organisations in your area.