At St Mark’s C of E Primary School, safeguarding is at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to ensuring that all children feel safe, valued and supported, both within our school community and beyond. The welfare of every child is our highest priority, and we work tirelessly to create a culture where children are protected from harm, listened to and encouraged to share any worries or concerns they may have.

All members of staff understand their responsibility to safeguard children and receive regular training to ensure they are able to identify concerns, respond appropriately and follow the correct procedures. We work closely with families and external agencies to ensure that children receive the support they need at the earliest opportunity.

We encourage parents, carers and members of our community to familiarise themselves with our Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy, which can be accessed below. If you would prefer a paper copy, please contact the school office and we will provide one free of charge.

Our Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSLs) are:

• Mr Keith Rondeau – Headteacher
• Mrs Gemma Smith – Deputy Headteacher and SENCO
• Mrs Claire Baggott – Assistant Headteacher
• Miss Jen Fullwood – Community and Wellbeing Leader

If you have a concern about the safety or wellbeing of a child, please speak to a member of our safeguarding team. You do not need to wait for an appointment, and we will always take concerns seriously.

If you are unable to speak to someone at school or feel that a child is at immediate risk, you can contact Dudley Children’s Services:

• Children’s Services Referral and Advice Service: 0300 555 0050
  (Monday–Friday, 9.00am–5.00pm)
• Emergency Duty Team (outside office hours): 0300 555 8574
• Emergency: 999

When you contact Dudley Safeguarding, you will speak with a trained professional who will listen to your concerns and advise on the appropriate next steps. You can provide your details to help with any follow-up, but you do not have to give your name or personal information if you do not wish to do so. Anonymous concerns will always be taken seriously and will not be ignored.

Children and young people can also seek support directly from Childline by calling 0800 1111 or visiting their website:
www.childline.org.uk

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. By working together, we can help to ensure that every child at St Mark’s is safe, supported and able to flourish.