Safeguarding and the UNCRC
At St Mary’s, we are committed to upholding the rights of every child, as set out in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC). These rights ensure that all children are protected, valued, and given the best opportunities to thrive.
Our safeguarding policies are closely linked to the UNCRC, particularly the right to be safe (Article 19) and the right to have a voice (Article 12). We create a secure and nurturing environment where children feel confident to speak up, knowing they will be listened to and supported. All our staff are trained to safeguard pupils from harm, working closely with families and external agencies to ensure every child’s well-being.
By embedding children’s rights into our school ethos, we empower pupils to understand their rights, respect others, and stay safe in school and beyond.
If you would like more information on our safeguarding approach, please contact Mrs Acton (Headteacher and Designated Safeguarding Lead)
Safeguarding Posters and Displays around our school
These signs and displays are prominently displayed around our school to ensure safeguarding has the highest priority and everyone is informed and takes responsibility.
Final St Mary’s Safeguarding Policy 2025 -2026 –Please click on the link to view our Policy (WCBC)
If you are concerned about a child
If you have concerns or believe that a child is at risk of being harmed or neglected, please contact Single Point Of Access (Children’s Social Care) as soon as possible on 01978 292039 during office hours. Out of Hours, the Emergency Duty Team can be contacted on 0345 053 3116.
If you believe a child is in immediate danger, you should call the Police on 999 immediately.
Domestic Violence
Other countries have seen a rise in domestic abuse and violence during COVID-19 lockdown restrictions. In the UK, it was reported that in the first two weeks, the National Domestic Abuse Helpline had a 25% increase in calls compared with the previous fortnight.
Where there is domestic abuse, there is a high correlation with emotional harm to children.
Operation Encompass Notifications to schools
Our school is part of Operation Encompass, a national initiative that supports children who have been exposed to domestic abuse. This means that we receive confidential notifications from the police when they attend incidents where a child may have been affected.
This early information allows us to provide the right support, care, and understanding to help our children feel safe and secure. If you would like more information, please contact the school or visit Operation Encompass.
For information and support on domestic abuse, contact:
- Police: Call 999 press 55 when prompted if you can’t speak
- Refuge UK wide 24-hour helpline: 0808 2000 247
- Welsh Women’s Aid Live Fear Free 24 hour helpline: 0808 80 10 800. Text and online chat is also available.
- Wrexham Domestic Abuse Safety Unit (DASU): 01978 310203
- Men’s Advice Line. Freephone 0808 8010327
Welsh Government- Physical Chastisement Change in Law
The Prevent duty
Some organisations in England, Scotland and Wales have a duty, as a specified authority under section 26 of the Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015, to identify vulnerable children and young people and prevent them from being drawn into terrorism. This is known as the Prevent duty.
These organisations include:
- schools
- registered childcare providers
- local authorities
- the police
- prisons and probation services
- NHS trusts and foundations.
Other organisations may also have Prevent duties if they perform delegated local authority functions.