Safeguarding
Safeguarding Statement
Oak Haven School is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all our students. We recognise our duty to protect and promote the welfare of children and young people and are dedicated to creating a safe and nurturing environment.
Our Safeguarding Commitment:
1. Child Protection: We have a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of abuse or neglect. All staff, volunteers, and governors are trained to recognise and respond to safeguarding concerns and to report them in accordance with our procedures.
2. Safe Recruitment: We follow robust recruitment procedures to ensure that all staff and volunteers are suitable to work with children. This includes thorough background checks and verification of qualifications.
3. Safe Environment: We ensure that our school environment is safe and conducive to learning. This includes regular risk assessments and the implementation of health and safety policies.
4. Training: All staff receive regular safeguarding training, including understanding the specific needs of our special school population. This training is updated to reflect current legislation and best practices.
5. Reporting Concerns: We have clear procedures for reporting and managing safeguarding concerns. All concerns are taken seriously and acted upon promptly, ensuring the best interests of the child are always considered.
6. Partnerships: We work closely with parents, carers, and external agencies to provide comprehensive support and to address any safeguarding issues effectively.
7. Policy Review: Our safeguarding policies and practices are reviewed regularly to ensure they remain effective and in line with current legislation and guidelines
Safeguarding Team
Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL):
Lynsey Collins
LCollins@oakhaven.rochdale.sch.uk
Deputy DSL:
Nicola Hassett
NHassett@oakhaven.rochdale.sch.uk
For any safeguarding concerns or questions, please contact our Designated Safeguarding Lead.
Oak Haven School is committed to the principles of equality and diversity. We respect and value each child as an individual and strive to meet their unique needs.
Other Contacts
Our local Children’s Social Care Team
Office hours: 0300 303 0440
(Monday-Friday 8.30am-4.45pm)
Out of office hours: 0300 303 8875
Any member of staff can share concerns directly
ehash@rochdale.gov.uk
Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO)
The LADO provides management and oversight of individual cases of allegations of abuse made against those who work with children.
Their role is to give advice and guidance to employers and voluntary organisations; liaise with the Police and other agencies and monitor the progress of cases to ensure that they are dealt with as quickly as possible consistent with a thorough and fair process. lado@rochdale.gov.uk
Useful Numbers and Websites
Rochdale Childcare Services – 01706 647 474
Anti-terrorism Hotline – 0800 789 321
DFE Advice Line – 0370 000 2288
The latest Keeping Children Safe in Education documentation can be found here. View Rochdale Safeguarding information here.
The Governing body takes seriously its responsibility under section 175 of the Education Act 2002 to safeguard and promote the welfare of children; and to work together with other agencies to ensure adequate arrangements within our school to identify, assess, and support those children who are suffering harm.