Safeguarding Conversations

Explore the safeguarding lessons from the Church of England's ongoing crisis and why reform remains urgent. This episode examines systemic failures, contrasts church practices with education frameworks, and highlights practical changes needed to rebuild trust and prioritise victims.

Explore the growing risk of "squaring" and how children are being used as money mules without realising the consequences. This episode explains how criminals recruit young people online, the warning signs to watch for, and what schools and parents can do to protect children from financial exploitation.

Explore the upcoming EYFS safeguarding reforms for 2025 and what they mean for early years providers. Sam and Sara break down key changes, from safer recruitment to stricter training, while highlighting the real challenges—especially for smaller settings—and what practitioners can do now to prepare.

In this podcast, following the conviction of Eshea Sullivan, we explore the legal and safeguarding implications of child-on-child abuse.

A discussion on the landmark changes to family court reporting in England and Wales, exploring increased transparency, the role of journalists, and the balance between open justice and protecting children's privacy. Sam and Sara unpack the opportunities, risks, and real-world impact of these reforms on public trust and safeguarding.

An eye-opening look at The Good Childhood Report 2024, as Sam and Sara explore why children's well-being in the UK is declining. From school pressure and social media to inequality and mental health, they unpack the key drivers behind falling life satisfaction—and what schools, families, and policymakers can do to turn the tide.

A breakdown of Ofsted's proposed move to a 'met' or 'not met' safeguarding judgement and what it means for schools. Sam and Sara explore the six key inspection areas, from safeguarding culture to handling concerns, and explain how leaders can prepare while having their say during the consultation.

A practical look at the DfE's draft guidance on reasonable force and restrictive interventions. Sam and Sara unpack why the changes matter, what schools must now record, and how a stronger focus on de-escalation and SEND support could reshape behaviour management—while highlighting why staff, leaders, and parents should have their say in the consultation.

A challenging discussion on whether the UK's Prevent programme is fit for purpose in today's changing landscape of extremism. Sam and Sara explore the impact of the Southport case, the complex link between mental health and violence, and the gaps between safeguarding agencies—raising critical questions about how future tragedies can be prevented.

A practical introduction to Health & Safety Walks in schools, as Sam and Sara explore how regular site checks help identify risks and keep pupils and staff safe. From fire safety and working at height to PEEPs and asbestos awareness, this episode highlights a collaborative, proactive approach to safeguarding.