Informing new governors and trustees of the school or trust's safeguarding procedures is an essential part of induction. Use this handbook to help all new governors and trustees understand safeguarding.

What's covered in this handbook?

Aim of this handbook

Safeguarding responsibilities
Definitions
Monitoring the effectiveness of safeguarding
Safer recruitment
Types and indicators of abuse and neglect
Pupils with increased vulnerability to harm
Concerns about a pupil
Managing disclosures
Early help
Appropriate behaviour towards pupils
Whistleblowing and concerns about staff
Self-reporting
Training and further information
Monitoring and review

As part of their safeguarding duties, schools and trusts should be committed to promoting the physical and mental welfare of every pupil. It is essential that new governors and trustees understand this upon induction to a new setting. Schools and trusts can use this induction handbook in collaboration with the Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy to inform new governors and trustees of the safeguarding practices in place.

We have used ‘school’ throughout this handbook; however, other education settings may amend the use of any school-specific terms to suit their individual setting.

Related terms: keeping children safe in education, KCSIE, safeguard, child protection, induct, new governor, new trustee, new director, local governors, trust board.