Domestic Abuse

The Bourne Academy receives information from the police to alert the Designated Safeguard Leads (DSL) when there has been an incident of domestic abuse in a household where a student lives.  We are not informed of the detail of the incident, only that one has occurred.  This information allows us to monitor and support the student.  If we have additional concerns we will discuss the need for further safeguarding actions with Children's Social Care.  This information would only be shared with other staff on restricted need to know basis, i.e. those who are immediately responsible for the student's welfare, such as the Head of House.

Where a Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conference (MARAC) occurs, the Academy may be asked for information and appropriate Academy related information may be shared with the Academy after the meeting.

Sometimes, we may need to share information and work in partnership with other agencies when there are concerns about a student's welfare.  We will ensure that our concerns about our students are discussed with his/her parents/carers first, unless we have reason to believe that such a move would be contrary to the child's welfare.

Useful links and documents:

• www.mosaicfamilysupport.org.uk - Mosaic is a Dorset wide charity offering a pathway of support to bereaved children, young people and their families.  They also work with young people who are facing the death of a loved ones.
• www.anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk - Anti-bully alliance
• www.ceop.police.uk/safety-centre - Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre
• Coping with Self Harm - A guide for parents and carers