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Today's episode explores the implementation of family-led practices in line with the Family First Partnership reforms, focusing on Family Group Decision-Making. 

Alex Campbell from one of the FFP Pathfinder areas, Lewisham Council, with Sam Mannion and Jo Collard from Somerset Council, discuss the importance of placing families at the centre of decision-making processes, the challenges faced by practitioners, and the cultural shifts required to embed these practices; emphasising the need for ongoing training, support from team managers, and the integration of family-led practices into existing systems to ensure effective outcomes for children and families.

Further details of topics discussed can be found on the SSCP Website: somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk

If you have any comments or questions from this podcast, or would like to be involved in a future episode please get in touch at [email protected]

To access the transcript for this episode go to The P Pod (somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk) and click on the episode for details.

Get in touch with us at The P Pod

In this episode, Steve Macabee speaks with Jamie Barton from Parent Assess about how professionals can better understand children’s lived experiences by moving beyond formulaic assessments and focusing on what families actually need. 

We explore the difference between a standard parenting assessment and a more individualised, accessible approach, including the use of traffic light systems, practical learning tools, and clear language that families can understand. 

Jamie shares how Parent Assess was developed, why the process is grounded in partnership rather than judgment, and how assessors can look at knowledge, confidence, consistency, and impact in a way that keeps the child at the center.

The conversation also covers working with parents who have learning disabilities, trauma, mental health needs, or other complex circumstances, and how early help, connected carers, and trauma-informed practice can all benefit from these principles.

You can find out more about Parent Assess at https://parentassess.com/

Reflective Questions to Discuss in Team Meetings:

1. How well are we understanding this family’s lived experience, rather than just documenting concerns or completing an assessment?

2. What strengths, supports, and practical workarounds could help a parent or carer that you're currently supporting meet the child’s needs more consistently

3. Are we focusing on the child’s overall experience and impact, or are we getting drawn into a single issue that might be narrowing our view?

Further details of topics discussed can be found on the SSCP Website: somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk

If you have any comments or questions from this podcast, or would like to be involved in a future episode please get in touch at [email protected]

To access the transcript for this episode go to The P Pod (somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk) and click on the episode for details.

Get in touch with us at The P Pod

In this episode of the P-Pod, Steve Macabee speaks with Stuart Whiffin from UNICEF UK about the Rights Respecting Schools Award and its role in building safer, more inclusive school communities.

They explore how a rights-based approach can strengthen safeguarding, wellbeing, relationships, participation and behaviour—while supporting children to understand both their rights and responsibilities. Stuart explains the award’s three core strands, the pathway from Bronze through to Gold accreditation, and how schools can embed children’s rights across everyday practice.

The conversation also looks at the Somerset secondary-school pilot, examples from across the UK, and practical resources for schools and partner agencies that want to get involved.

You can find out more about the Rights Respecting Schools Award here: https://www.unicef.org.uk/rights-respecting-schools/

Further details of topics discussed can be found on the SSCP Website: somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk

If you have any comments or questions from this podcast, or would like to be involved in a future episode please get in touch at [email protected]

To access the transcript for this episode go to The P Pod (somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk) and click on the episode for details.

Get in touch with us at The P Pod

In todays episode we are joined by Dr. Lou Newbury and Dr. Jo Nicholl where we discuss the complexities involved with FII, including identifying concerns, understanding the underlying causes and the importance of multiagency communication in this contect.

You can find out more about this subject through the SSCP's Bite-Sized Briefing which accompanies this episode at SSCP Guide to Fabricated or Induced Illness (FII) - Somerset Safeguarding Children Partnership

Further details of topics discussed can be found on the SSCP Website: somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk

If you have any comments or questions from this podcast, or would like to be involved in a future episode please get in touch at [email protected]

To access the transcript for this episode go to The P Pod (somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk) and click on the episode for details.

Get in touch with us at The P Pod

Join host Steve Macabee and his guests Beth Ollive and Hari Fuller from Somerset Council's Education Safeguarding Service as they bring you all of the most significant updates from both KCSiE and the EYFS in 2026.

After a couple of years of there being no major updates to KCSiE, this years update introduces a number of new specific requirements relating to regulated activities, serious youth violence, AI technology and online harms and children questioning their gender, as well as changes in line with numerous pieces of legislation that came into force this year, so it's more important than ever to catch up on the headlines in time for the new academic year.

NB - Since originally recording this episode at the end of August 2026 the final version of KCSiE was published on the 1st Sept. and included some small additions, which have been included at the end of the original recording. 

For more details from the Education Safeguarding Service go to their website https://www.supportservicesforeducation.co.uk/educationsafeguarding

Further details of topics discussed can be found on the SSCP Website: somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk

If you have any comments or questions from this podcast, or would like to be involved in a future episode please get in touch at [email protected]

To access the transcript for this episode go to The P Pod (somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk) and click on the episode for details.

Get in touch with us at The P Pod

What if the key to safeguarding infants lies in understanding the often-overlooked complexities of family trauma, rapid mobility, and concealed pregnancies? 

Sally Shearer OBE, a leading expert from the National Child Safeguarding Practice Review Panel, shares ground breaking insights from their latest report, Protecting All Vulnerable Babies Better. This episode reveals how systemic gaps—like poor cross-border communication and unaddressed trauma—can mean the difference between life and death for our youngest children.

Discover why the most vulnerable babies are at highest risk during their first year, especially those in families that frequently move or hide pregnancies. Sally unpacks the patterns, revealing how repeat removals and trauma responses hinder effective safeguarding. Learn how trauma-informed, family-led approaches can break this cycle—turning seemingly insurmountable barriers into opportunities for meaningful intervention.

We also delve into practical steps for professionals across all sectors—midwives, social workers, healthcare providers—and how vibrant, collaborative communication strategies, like robust pre-birth protocols and improved information sharing, can be game changers. The review emphasizes that safeguarding isn’t just about reacting to crises but about proactive, systemic change—particularly for families with complex histories.

Why does this matter? Because unintentional systemic gaps—like poor inter-agency communication or lack of curiosity—mean children fall through the cracks. But with targeted, trauma-aware practices, professionals can prevent loss, support family reunification, and save lives. This episode is essential listening for anyone committed to reshaping child protection to be more compassionate, effective, and proactive.

Check out the National Panel's website, where you can find more details of this review HERE

Reflective questions for professionals:

1. How does trauma-informed practice influence your approach to engaging families who are difficult to reach?
2. What systemic barriers—like communication or data sharing—might be preventing children from being safeguarded effectively in your area?
3. How can your team improve cross-agency collaboration to ensure seamless safeguarding of families across borders or frequent moves?

Further details of topics discussed can be found on the SSCP Website: somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk

If you have any comments or questions from this podcast, or would like to be involved in a future episode please get in touch at [email protected]

To access the transcript for this episode go to The P Pod (somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk) and click on the episode for details.

Get in touch with us at The P Pod

Most professionals underestimate the crucial role of safeguarding when it comes to preventing radicalisation. In this episode, Kira Baker, Regional Prevent Officer, unpacks how safeguarding principles are seamlessly integrated into Counter-Terrorism strategies like Prevent, emphasizing their importance in everyday practice.

Kira provides the clarity frontline workers need, explaining how Prevent isn't about criminalisation but early support—highlighting success stories that often go unnoticed. She discusses the evolution of the strategy, current threat levels, and the dominant ideological threats in the UK, like Islamist extremism and right-wing violence, revealing how online spaces significantly amplify vulnerability.

Discover concrete frameworks such as Notice, Check, Share, as Kira guides us through real-world safeguarding scenarios, demonstrating how to identify signs of radicalisation—whether it's online activity, behavioral shifts, or community indicators. She emphasizes that safeguarding isn't about ticking boxes but understanding individual vulnerabilities within their broader life context, fostering trust and open dialogue instead of stigmatisation.

You’ll also hear about the innovative support mechanisms like Channel panels and intervention providers, which focus on holistic, person-centered interventions that respect individuals' rights and beliefs. Kira explains how consent and personalised support underpin effective early intervention, dispelling myths about enforcement or punishment.

Reflective Questions:
1. How can we integrate the Notice, Check, Share framework into our current safeguarding practices?

2. What are the potential challenges in shifting perceptions of Prevent from a punitive to a supportive strategy?

3. How can we better identify and support individuals at risk of radicalization within our communities?

Links from this episode:

If you are worried someone is being radicalised you can call the national police Prevent line on 0800 011 3764 or 18001 101 for a text phone service for hearing impaired people

Prevent information page: www.gov.uk/prevent

Prevent duty guidance: Prevent duty guidance: England and Wales (2023) - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) 

Counter-terrorism strategy (CONTEST) 2023 - GOV.UK

Key principles of Prevent - GOV.UK

www.actearly.uk 

Prevent duty training - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk/prevent-duty-training)

Educate Against Hate - Prevent Radicalisation & Extremism

 https://www.getsafeonline.org/social-networking/online-radicalisation/ 

Autism and Extremism: The Questions that Operational Practitioners Should be Asking 

Going Too Far? 

Help your child stay safe online - Kids Online Safety

Further details of topics discussed can be found on the SSCP Website: somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk

If you have any comments or questions from this podcast, or would like to be involved in a future episode please get in touch at [email protected]

To access the transcript for this episode go to The P Pod (somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk) and click on the episode for details.

Get in touch with us at The P Pod

Most of us find it incredibly uncomfortable to discuss child sexual abuse openly—and for good reason. 

Jeremy Indika, founder of Something to Say and advocate for survivors, joins us to unravel why talking about abuse remains taboo and how we can break down those barriers. His powerful personal story, alongside expert insights, shines a light on the unseen complexities that make it so hard for children and adults alike to speak up—and why staying silent is the biggest risk of all.

You’ll discover:

• The subtle signs and manipulative tactics abusers use to keep children silent and examples from Jeremy’s own experience.
•  How our current conversations and protective measures might be outdated and what new approaches can empower children to disclose safely.
•  The importance of shifting perceptions: viewing abuse through a child’s lens and understanding why pleasure or confusion can complicate their responses.
•  Practical strategies for professionals and parents to foster confidence, trust, and open dialogue with children—without adding to their shame or confusion.
•  Why engaging directly with offenders can be part of prevention—and how a science-based, rational approach can help us understand and disrupt grooming behaviours before harm occurs.

 This episode is essential listening for anyone working with children—teachers, social workers, youth workers, and parents—who want to move beyond fear and stigma to truly protect and empower young lives. Jeremy’s insights challenge us all to rethink our responses and build a safer, more open future.

Jeremy Indika is a passionate advocate, founder of Something to Say, and a survivor who uses his experiences to educate and reform safeguarding practices across sectors.

To find out more go to https://jeremyindika.com/

Reflective Questions from this Episode:
1. How can we create a safe and supportive environment for children to disclose abuse without fear of judgment or repercussions.

2. In what ways can our current safeguarding practices be improved to better identify and respond to subtle signs of abuse?

3.How can we engage with offenders in a way that contributes to prevention and understanding, while maintaining the safety and dignity of survivors?

Further details of topics discussed can be found on the SSCP Website: somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk

If you have any comments or questions from this podcast, or would like to be involved in a future episode please get in touch at [email protected]

To access the transcript for this episode go to The P Pod (somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk) and click on the episode for details.

Get in touch with us at The P Pod

In todays episode we're fortunate to be joined by Dr. Alex Bailey, Forensic Psychologist from The Lucy Faithful Foundation as we look to gain a greater understanding of differing typologies of female perpetrators of CSA, the risks and additional barriers to children when the perpetrator of abuse is female and the support available for both actual and potential perpetrators and professionals through the Stop It Now campaign.

Find out more at www.lucyfaithful.org.uk 

 Reflective Questions Based on This Episode:

1. How can we ensure that our safeguarding practices are free from unconscious bias, particularly in recognizing female perpetrators of abuse?
   
   
2. What strategies can we implement to create a safe environment for children to disclose abuse, especially when the perpetrator is a female caregiver?
   
   
3. In what ways can we better support and educate families and communities about the complexities of abuse dynamics, including the roles of women as potential perpetrators?

Further details of topics discussed can be found on the SSCP Website: somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk

If you have any comments or questions from this podcast, or would like to be involved in a future episode please get in touch at [email protected]

To access the transcript for this episode go to The P Pod (somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk) and click on the episode for details.

Get in touch with us at The P Pod

Most professionals shy away from conversations about child sexual abuse because they fear doing harm or making mistakes — but what if confidence and simple, compassionate communication tools could change everything?

In this episode, we dive deep into the updated practical resources from the Centre of Expertise on Child Sexual Abuse, designed to empower everyone—from teachers and coaches to healthcare assistants—to have meaningful, trauma-informed conversations with children.

Our guest, Dr. Natasha Sabin, Practice Improvement Advisor at CSA Centre, shares insights from their recent resource updates. She explains how their "Communicating with Children" guide supports a broad range of professionals to notice subtle signs of distress, create safe spaces for disclosures, and respond confidently—even when verbal communication is limited. 

You'll discover the importance of meeting children where they are in terms of communication, how to build trust without leading, and why understanding trauma’s impact on memory is crucial for effective listening.

We also break down how everyday conversations — like noticing mood changes or asking gentle open-ended questions — can act as vital proactive steps in safeguarding. 

Natasha emphasizes that most disclosures happen gradually, through a process of noticing non-verbal cues and providing children with control and reassurance. This episode underscores why response is everything: ignoring quiet signals or relying on children to tell only when they're ready can leave children at greater risk—and why empowering every adult to be a confident, trustworthy listener makes a measurable difference in safeguarding practice.

Perfect for teachers, healthcare workers, social workers, sports coaches, and anyone who works with children, this conversation highlights how simple shifts in approach and mindset can transform safeguarding efforts. Whether you're new to child protection or looking to refresh your skills, this episode offers practical, evidence-based strategies to foster confidence and turn everyday interactions into protective opportunities. 

Dr. Natasha Sabin is the Practice Improvement Advisor at the Centre of Expertise on Child Sexual Abuse, bringing expert insights on trauma-informed communication and safeguarding best practices.

Reflective Questions for Team Discussions:

1) How can we create a more supportive environment for children to express their feelings and concerns?

2) What strategies can we implement to better recognize non-verbal cues of distress in children?

 3) How can we ensure that our communication approach is trauma-informed and empowers children to feel safe and heard?

Check out the CSA Centre Website, including the resources discussed in this episode HERE

Further details of topics discussed can be found on the SSCP Website: somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk

If you have any comments or questions from this podcast, or would like to be involved in a future episode please get in touch at [email protected]

To access the transcript for this episode go to The P Pod (somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk) and click on the episode for details.