All Leicestershire Schools are part of a safeguarding initiative which aims to improve outcomes for children and families affected by domestic violence and abuse.

The scheme was designed to provide early reporting to schools of any domestic abuse incidents that might have an impact on a child that attends their school. The approach, known as Operation Encompass, was rolled out across the country in 2017, and remains in place today in many counties, but not all. In Leicestershire the scheme is run in partnership between Leicestershire County Council and Leicestershire Police.

All public agencies share information where there are safeguarding concerns or risk of harm to children, and the Police share information on all incidents of domestic abuse in Leicestershire with Leicestershire County Council AND with schools. They also inform schools of families where a parent/principal carer has been imprisoned, as it is recognsied that this can cause great pressure on a family. 

The school's Designated Safeguarding Leads - Mrs Mock (Senior DSL), Mr Coleman & Mrs Jo York  (Deputy DSLs) - are informed when any domestic abuse incident has been reported to the Police and one of our pupils was in the household.

This was introduced because domestic abuse in a household can have a big impact on children, even if they do not see what is happening.

This information is used to ensure the school is able to provide appropriate support to our pupils. The information is confidential and is only shared on a strictly need-to-know basis, for example with the class teacher. It will not be shared with any pupils.

If you would like to speak to someone in confidence about domestic abuse or sexual violence, call the United Against Violence and Abuse (UAVA) helpline on 0800 80 200 28. The helpline is open 8am to 8am Monday to Saturday. You can also visit www.uava.org.uk

We look to offer the best support possible for our pupils and believe that this scheme is beneficial and supportive for all those involved.