Introduction and Context

The need for safer learning environments

Safeguarding in the learning and skills sector includes protecting people both under and over the age of 18.

The law defines someone as a child until their 18th birthday. This legal definition often occurs in safeguarding legislation - references to 'children' should not necessarily be dismissed as irrelevant.

Anyone over 18 is legally an adult. However, safeguarding also covers adults within the organisation. An organisation's safeguarding responsibilities apply to all learners, including those on full and part time courses.

Think about who else these safeguarding responsibilities might cover, and make some notes in your Notepad before using the Next item button to build up a list of people.

Other people covered by an organisation's safeguarding responsibilities include:

  • Learners on an alternative curriculum, including those with special educational needs.

  • Work-based trainees.

  • 14 - 16 year old learners.

  • Young children in a nursery or crèche.

  • Adult learners with personal care needs.

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Personal support

Click on a heading below for links to source of support

Support Me

The following links highlight sources of support for you if you are personally affected by any of the issues raised in this course. Select a link to open it in a new window.

Samaritans A confidential telephone or email listening service if you need to talk about your own experiences.

SupportLine Offers confidential emotional support by telephone, email and post, working to help develop healthy and positive coping strategies. They also keep details of counsellors, agencies and support groups throughout the UK.

Help for Adult Victims of Child Abuse (HAVOCA) Provides support, friendship and advice for any adult whose life has been affected by childhood abuse.

Support for Learners

The following links highlight sources of support for learners or anyone else you know who may be personally affected by any of the issues raised in this course. Select a link to open it in a new window.

ChildLine Offers support, advice and guidance for anyone up to the age of 18 on a variety of topics, including abuse.

Respond A national, free service for children, young people, adults and elders with learning difficulties.

TheSite Young adult oriented searchable website offering support, advice and guidance on a wide range of topics, including abuse.

Information, Advice and Guidance

The following links highlight sources of further information, advice and guidance around the issues raised in this course. Select a link to open it in a new window.

Ann Craft Trust An organisation focused on safeguarding people with learning disabilities.

Department of Health The Department of Health website contains useful information about safeguarding adults.