Safeguarding

Last updated: September 2025

At Bright SEN Advice and Support, safeguarding is a core principle that underpins all our work with families. We recognise our responsibility to promote the welfare and safety of children and ensure that our services support safe, informed decision-making.

Purpose of This Policy

This policy outlines our approach to safeguarding children and vulnerable individuals in the context of our advisory work with parents, carers, and professionals. It sets out how we identify and respond to concerns, and how we uphold best practice in line with UK safeguarding legislation.

Scope

This policy applies to all services provided by Bright SEN Advice and Support. It covers:

  • Advice and support given to parents and carers
  • Communication with professionals and educational settings
  • Handling of sensitive information related to children’s needs and circumstances

Our Commitment

We are committed to:

  • Promoting the welfare and safety of children and young people
  • Respecting confidentiality while recognising when disclosure is necessary
  • Responding appropriately to safeguarding concerns raised by clients
  • Maintaining professional boundaries and ethical standards
  • Keeping up to date with safeguarding guidance and training

Legal Framework

Our safeguarding approach is informed by:

  • Children Act 1989 and 2004
  • Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018)
  • Keeping Children Safe in Education (2025)
  • UK GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018

Although not a regulated provider, Bright SEN Advice and Support operates in alignment with these frameworks to ensure responsible practice.

Responding to Concerns

If a safeguarding concern arises during our work with a parent or carer, we will:

  1. Listen carefully and sensitively
  2. Clarify the nature of the concern without probing or investigating
  3. Advise the parent or carer on appropriate next steps, including referral to relevant services
  4. Record the concern securely and confidentially
  5. Seek advice from safeguarding professionals if necessary

If we believe a child is at immediate risk of harm, we reserve the right to contact the appropriate safeguarding authority, in line with our duty of care.

Confidentiality and Information Sharing

We treat all information shared with us as confidential. However, we may share information without consent if:

  • A child is at risk of significant harm
  • A vulnerable adult is at risk
  • There is a legal obligation to do so

We will always aim to inform the parent or carer before sharing information, unless doing so would increase risk.

Training and Review

We are committed to:

  • Keeping safeguarding knowledge up to date
  • Reviewing this policy annually or in response to changes in legislation
  • Seeking professional safeguarding advice when needed

Contact

If you have any questions about this policy or wish to raise a safeguarding concern, please contact:

Bright SEN Advice and Support
Email: [email protected]