Nursery World - Safeguarding - Behind closed doors

With referrals to social care and concerns about children rising during the pandemic, what is the impact on early years settings’ safeguarding role? By Meredith Jones Russell

Less contact with families can make it harder for practitioners to spot warning signs

It is estimated that half a million children under five live in a household with domestic abuse, parental mental health problems, or parental drug or alcohol abuse.

The Covid-19 pandemic has compounded these risks and intensified the challenges for all practitioners responsible for keeping children safe from abuse and harm.

Action for Children’s Spring nurseries reported an increased number of referrals to children’s social care during the first and second lockdowns, with neglect the most common reason cited.

Meanwhile, a record number of adults called the NSPCC helpline with concerns about children between April 2020 and March 2021, surging by nearly a quarter, with 47 per cent of calls leading to a referral to an external agency such as the police or children’s services.

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included