Our school takes part in Operation Encompass, a nationally recognised safeguarding partnership between schools and the police. This initiative ensures that when the police attend a domestic abuse incident where a child lives at the address, the school is informed before the start of the next school day. This information is shared securely with the school’s Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) so that we can provide immediate, sensitive support to the child.
We understand that children who experience or witness domestic abuse may feel anxious, upset or unsettled when they come to school. Operation Encompass enables us to respond quickly and appropriately, for example by offering a quiet space, additional emotional support, or simply being aware of the child’s needs on that day. To ensure the safety of everyone involved, the school will not routinely approach parents or carers about an Operation Encompass notification, as this could place individuals at further risk or escalate a situation.
In the same way, we do not routinely speak directly to pupils about an Operation Encompass notification. This is because children may not be ready to talk, may not fully understand what has happened, or could feel distressed or unsafe if questioned. Instead, staff remain vigilant and supportive, creating opportunities for the child to talk if they choose to do so. If a child does make a disclosure, this will always be handled sensitively and in line with our safeguarding procedures. All information is treated in strict confidence and only shared with staff on a need-to-know basis. Our priority is always to ensure that every child feels safe, supported and ready to learn. If you or someone you know require any support related to Domestic Abuse, please see the links to support from the NHS and the National Domestic Abuse Helpline Homepage.
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/getting-help-for-domestic-violence/
https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk/
Our Safeguarding Team in school are also able to signpost to local specialist support for adults or children related to Domestic Abuse such as the Freedom Programme so please come and speak to any of our safeguarding team for support and information.
