Safeguarding Conversations

Explore the findings of the Casey Audit and the controversy surrounding group‑based child exploitation. This episode examines systemic failures, the role of cultural sensitivity in safeguarding, and the urgent questions facing professionals and policymakers—challenging whether lessons have truly been learned.

Explore the hidden rise of online gambling among teenagers and why it's a growing safeguarding concern. This episode uncovers how gaming, apps, and influencer culture are normalising gambling, the warning signs schools should watch for, and practical steps to protect young people from harm.

Explore how online grooming is evolving in the digital age and why it can be so difficult to spot. This episode highlights subtle warning signs, the emotional tactics used by groomers, and the vital role schools play in identifying risk early and supporting children to stay safe online.

Explore the hidden impact of vicarious trauma on school staff. This episode highlights the emotional toll of safeguarding work, the warning signs to watch for, and why meaningful supervision and supportive cultures are essential to protect those who protect children.

Explore the growing impact of child poverty on education and safeguarding. This episode examines rising UK poverty rates, hidden hardship faced by families, and what schools can do to support vulnerable pupils—while asking whether wider policy change is urgently needed.

Explore what the new Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act—Martyn's Law—means for schools. This episode breaks down new legal duties, from emergency planning to security measures, and why preparedness is now a core part of safeguarding.

Explore whether Ofcom's new Online Safety Codes mark a true turning point for child protection—or fall short of real change. This episode examines concerning evidence from social platforms, new legal duties for tech companies, and what it all means for schools and safeguarding professionals working to keep children safe online.

Explore the critical gap between school safeguarding guidance and legal evidence standards. This episode examines how differences between KCSIE and ABE can impact child protection cases, why educators face increasing pressure, and what changes are needed to ensure children are both supported and heard in court.

Learn how to write clear, effective safeguarding reports that truly protect children and inform decision-making. This episode covers key report types, practical structuring tips, and the importance of accurate, factual language—helping schools strengthen both individual case responses and whole-school safeguarding practice.

Explore the safeguarding lessons from the Church of England's ongoing crisis and why reform remains urgent. This episode examines systemic failures, contrasts church practices with education frameworks, and highlights practical changes needed to rebuild trust and prioritise victims.

Explore the growing risk of "squaring" and how children are being used as money mules without realising the consequences. This episode explains how criminals recruit young people online, the warning signs to watch for, and what schools and parents can do to protect children from financial exploitation.

Explore the upcoming EYFS safeguarding reforms for 2025 and what they mean for early years providers. Sam and Sara break down key changes, from safer recruitment to stricter training, while highlighting the real challenges—especially for smaller settings—and what practitioners can do now to prepare.

In this podcast, following the conviction of Eshea Sullivan, we explore the legal and safeguarding implications of child-on-child abuse.

A discussion on the landmark changes to family court reporting in England and Wales, exploring increased transparency, the role of journalists, and the balance between open justice and protecting children's privacy. Sam and Sara unpack the opportunities, risks, and real-world impact of these reforms on public trust and safeguarding.

An eye-opening look at The Good Childhood Report 2024 , as Sam and Sara explore why children's well-being in the UK is declining. From school pressure and social media to inequality and mental health, they unpack the key drivers behind falling life satisfaction—and what schools, families, and policymakers can do to turn the tide.

A breakdown of Ofsted's proposed move to a 'met' or 'not met' safeguarding judgement and what it means for schools. Sam and Sara explore the six key inspection areas, from safeguarding culture to handling concerns, and explain how leaders can prepare while having their say during the consultation.

A practical look at the DfE's draft guidance on reasonable force and restrictive interventions. Sam and Sara unpack why the changes matter, what schools must now record, and how a stronger focus on de-escalation and SEND support could reshape behaviour management—while highlighting why staff, leaders, and parents should have their say in the consultation.

A challenging discussion on whether the UK's Prevent programme is fit for purpose in today's changing landscape of extremism. Sam and Sara explore the impact of the Southport case, the complex link between mental health and violence, and the gaps between safeguarding agencies—raising critical questions about how future tragedies can be prevented.

A practical introduction to Health & Safety Walks in schools, as Sam and Sara explore how regular site checks help identify risks and keep pupils and staff safe. From fire safety and working at height to PEEPs and asbestos awareness, this episode highlights a collaborative, proactive approach to safeguarding.

An insightful look at the growing behaviour crisis in England's schools, as Sam and Sara unpack new research, rising disruption, and its impact on pupils and teachers. They explore key recommendations—from stronger parent engagement to national support programmes—and why tackling behaviour is essential for improving outcomes, safety, and wellbeing.

A sensitive discussion on "stealthing" and its legal and safeguarding implications. Sam and Sara explore consent, the gaps in UK legislation, and the real impact on survivors - highlighting why awareness, education, and clearer laws are crucial to tackling this form of sexual violence.

A thoughtful and sensitive discussion on the tragic Sara Sharif case and its impact on safeguarding in the UK. Sam and Sara explore the risks facing home-schooled children, gaps in oversight, and the urgent need for better multi-agency collaboration to protect vulnerable pupils.

A powerful discussion examining the legacy of the Rotherham scandal and how online influence, including Elon Musk's role on X, is reshaping the narrative. Sam and Sara explore misinformation, safeguarding risks, and the challenge of balancing free speech with protecting survivors and public trust.

A practical guide to safeguarding in out-of-school clubs and activities. Sam and Sara explore the legal responsibilities of organisations, the vital role parents play, and the key questions to ask to ensure children stay safe—highlighting how awareness, clear policies, and proactive action create secure, positive environments beyond the classroom.

A focused discussion on the government's  Keeping Children Safe, Helping Families Thrive strategy, highlighting the evolving role of education in safeguarding. Sam and Sara explore multi-agency collaboration, home education oversight, and expanded support for vulnerable children—while examining the challenges of funding, workforce pressures, and making reform work in practice.