Safeguarding at St Michael’s CE Primary School

At St Michael’s, safeguarding is at the heart of everything we do. It is essential that our children feel safe, supported, and cared for — not only in their learning, but in their relationships within and beyond the school community. Our three core rules — Safe, Respectful, and Hardworking — underpin our high expectations for behaviour and learning, promote positive relationships, and guide our consistent approach to creating a nurturing and secure environment for every child.

We are proud to be a safeguarding school, and we believe that safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.

Our Commitment

The purpose of our safeguarding policy is to ensure that every child who attends St Michael’s is protected from harm. This means we are committed to:

• Protecting children from maltreatment

• Preventing impairment of children’s health or development

• Ensuring children grow up in safe and nurturing environments

• Enabling all children to have the best possible outcomes

Our policy provides clear guidance for staff, volunteers, governors, visitors, and parents on our expectations and legal duties to promote the welfare of all pupils. We recognise the important role the whole school community plays in protecting and supporting every child.

Designated Safeguarding Leads

• Mrs Lucy Perry – Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

• Mrs Cathy Prole – Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead

• Miss Helen Finney - Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead

Our DSLs work closely with Trafford’s First Response team and other external agencies to ensure that concerns are reported swiftly and support is put in place for children and families as needed.

If you have a concern about a child in Trafford, you can contact First Response directly:
0161 912 5125
FirstResponse@trafford.gov.uk

Alternatively, you can contact the school office (0161 748 3669) to speak with Mrs Lucy Perry in confidence.

Operation Encompass

St Michael’s is part of Operation Encompass, a national initiative that supports children who are exposed to domestic abuse. This system allows the police to share information with schools about domestic incidents involving children, enabling us to offer timely support in a safe and confidential way. We recognise the significant impact domestic abuse can have on a child’s wellbeing and are committed to being part of this essential safeguarding partnership.

Safeguarding and SEND

We understand that children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) may face additional safeguarding challenges. These may include:

• Limited ability to recognise or understand abuse

• Difficulties communicating concerns, needs, or emotions

• Behavioural changes being misunderstood as part of their SEND

At St Michael’s, we take these vulnerabilities seriously. We have tailored resources and additional support in place to help our SEND pupils communicate effectively, express their feelings, and seek help when needed.