At Hutchinson Memorial CE First School, keeping children safe is our highest priority. We are committed to creating a secure, caring and supportive environment where every child feels valued and protected. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility, and we work closely with parents, carers and external agencies to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all pupils.

If you have any concerns about a child’s safety, please contact the school immediately.

Helpful Information for Parents

Keeping children safe extends beyond the school gates. Below are some helpful tips and trusted resources to support you in keeping your child safe online, in the community and at home.

Online Safety

Top Tips for Parents

  • Talk regularly with your child about what they do online.
  • Set up parental controls on devices, apps and home broadband.
  • Encourage children to speak up if something online makes them feel worried or uncomfortable.
  • Keep gaming and tech devices in shared family spaces where possible.
  • Check age ratings for apps, games and social media platforms.

Mental Health and Emotional Wellbeing

Supporting children’s emotional wellbeing is a key part of safeguarding.

Helpful resources

What parents can do

  • Encourage open conversations at home.
  • Notice changes in behaviour, appetite, sleep or friendships.
  • Seek support early if you’re worried.
  • Let us know if your child is struggling—together we can help.

Keeping Children Safe in the Community

Practical Tips

  • Teach children how to stay safe when walking to school or playing outside.
  • Ensure they know their full name, address and a contact number.
  • Talk about who they can go to for help if they feel unsafe.
  • Discuss safe and unsafe secrets.

Useful resources

Preventing Child-on-Child Abuse

We work proactively to help children understand respectful relationships and what to do if they ever feel uncomfortable or worried.

Parents can help by:

  • Talking about friendships and how to treat others with kindness
  • Discussing good and bad behaviour online and offline
  • Encouraging children to tell a trusted adult if something feels wrong

If You Are Worried About a Child

If you ever have a safeguarding concern:

Contact the school office immediately and ask to speak with the Designated Safeguarding Lead.

If you believe a child is at immediate risk, call:

  • Police: 999
  • Staffordshire Children’s Advice Service (Local Safeguarding): 0800 1313 126 (0345 604 2886 outside hours)

You can also seek advice from:

  • NSPCC Helpline: 0808 800 5000
  • Childline (for children): 0800 1111

We Are Here to Help

Safeguarding is a partnership between school and families. Please remember, no concern is ever too small — together we can keep all children safe, happy and able to thrive.

Useful Links: