Dyslexia Nottingham Logo
Get Support
Whatsapp Linkedin
Commitment to Safeguarding

Our Safeguarding Policy

May 2025

At Dyslexia Nottingham, we are dedicated to creating a secure and supportive environment for children and young people receiving our services. Whether through assessments, tutoring, advisory work, or training, we believe every individual has the right to safety and protection, free from abuse, neglect, or harm—regardless of age, disability, gender identity, race, religion, or background.


Safeguarding is a shared responsibility. This policy outlines our commitment to child protection and provides clear guidance for staff, associates, volunteers, children, young people, and their families.

Get Started

Purpose of This Policy

This policy aims to:

  • Ensure the safety and protection of children and young people within Dyslexia Nottingham’s services.
  • Establish clear safeguarding principles that all staff, volunteers, and associates must follow.
  • Provide guidance on recognising and responding to concerns about a child’s welfare.

This policy applies to all individuals working on behalf of Dyslexia Nottingham, including employees, volunteers, and contractors.

Legal Framework

Our safeguarding approach aligns with the latest child protection laws, including:

  • Keeping Children Safe in Education (2024)
  • Working Together to Safeguard Children (2023)
  • Prevent Duty Guidance (2023)
  • Information Sharing Advice for Safeguarding Practitioners (2024)
  • What to Do If You’re Worried a Child Is Being Abused – A Guide for Practitioners (2015)

Our Approach to Safeguarding

At Dyslexia Nottingham, we recognise that:

  • The well-being and protection of children is our top priority in all interactions and decisions.
  • Collaboration with children, young people, families, schools, and external agencies strengthens safeguarding efforts.
  • Abuse can take various forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, or neglect, with some children experiencing multiple types of harm.
  • Certain children face greater risks due to past experiences, communication barriers, or their level of dependency, requiring additional protective measures.

Actions to Maintain a Safe Environment

We uphold child safety through:

  • Encouraging open communication and actively listening to children and young people.
  • Securely handling personal data in line with legal requirements.
  • Providing families with clear information on where to seek support or report concerns.
  • Sharing safeguarding concerns responsibly with appropriate agencies while considering the child’s best interests.
  • Adhering to the safeguarding policies of schools we collaborate with.
  • Keeping our safeguarding protocols updated to reflect evolving regulations and information.
  • Identifying warning signs of abuse and taking prompt action when necessary.

Safeguarding Practices in Different Settings

In Schools

When delivering services within a school setting, we will:

  • Follow the school’s safeguarding policies and adhere to their reporting procedures.
  • Report concerns immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) or Deputy DSL.
  • If no DSL or Deputy DSL is available and there is an immediate risk, we will escalate concerns to senior staff or local safeguarding authorities.

At Home or Online

  • Ensure a parent or trusted adult remains nearby during home assessments or tutoring.
  • During online sessions, confirm an adult is within earshot to maintain safeguarding protocols.

Reporting Concerns

If there are concerns about a child’s welfare, we will:

  1. Observe changes in a child’s behavior, physical appearance, or emotional state.
  2. Monitor unexplained injuries, concerning comments, or signs of distress.
  3. Discuss concerns with parents/carers unless doing so may increase the risk of harm.
  4. Document concerns accurately and securely, using direct quotes where applicable.
  5. Report concerns promptly to safeguarding authorities when necessary.

Record Keeping

When a safeguarding concern arises, we will document:

  • The child’s full name and details of the concern, including dates, times, and observations.
  • Actions taken, including any discussions with parents/carers.
  • Any explanations provided by parents or guardians.
  • Secure storage of records in compliance with legal safeguarding requirements.

Key Contacts for Safeguarding Support

Local Safeguarding Partners (Nottingham)

  • Nottingham City Council Children’s Services: 0115 876 4800
  • Nottinghamshire Police (non-emergency): 101

National Safeguarding Support

  • NSPCC Helpline: 0808 800 5000
  • Childline: 0800 1111
  • National Youth Advocacy Service: 0808 808 1001
  • Bullying UK: 0808 800 2222

If you have any questions about this Safeguarding Policy or wish to exercise your rights, please contact: Faye Colegate at Dyslexia Nottingham via email: info@dyslexianottingham.co.uk or mobile: 079485429434