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Prevent duty guidance: England and Wales (2023)

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Prevent duty guidance for specified authorities in England and Wales.

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Support for those working in education settings with safeguarding responsibilities.

Details

This guidance is for:

designated safeguarding leads (DSLs)

those working in education settings who have safeguarding responsibilities for keeping children, young people and adult learners safe in schools, colleges and further education independent training providers

This guidance is designed to:

explain the Prevent referral process and the statutory responsibilities to keep children, young people and adult learners safe from the risk of extremist ideology or radicalisation

prepare DSLs to respond effectively and get support for people who may be being exploited by radicalising influences

This guidance has been developed by frontline practitioners in local authorities, with support from the Department for Education. It reflects learning since the implementation of the Prevent duty in 2015 under section 26 of the Counter Terrorism and Security Act 2015.

Read this guidance alongside:

The practical advice and examples of best practice in this guidance should supplement your setting's existing safeguarding policies. The use of this guidance is not mandatory, but it does refer to the statutory requirements of the Prevent duty and keeping children safe in education.

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The Prevent duty: safeguarding learners vulnerable to radicalisation

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Support for those working in education settings with safeguarding responsibilities.

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Channel and PMAP are part of the Prevent strategy. The process is a multi-agency approach to identify and support individuals at risk of being drawn into terrorism.

Documents

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If you use assistive technology (such as a screen reader) and need a version of this document in a more accessible format, please email alternativeformats@homeoffice.gov.uk. Please tell us what format you need. It will help us if you say what assistive technology you use.

Details

Channel/PMAP is a programme which focuses on providing support at an early stage to people who are identified as being vulnerable to being drawn into terrorism. Channel refers to panels operating in England and Wales, while PMAP operates in Scotland.

The programme uses a multi-agency approach to protect vulnerable people by:

identifying individuals at risk

assessing the nature and extent of that risk

developing the most appropriate support plan for the individuals concerned

Sections 36 to 41 of the Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015 set out the duty on local authorities and partners of local panels to provide support for people vulnerable to being drawn into any form of terrorism.

This guidance has been issued under sections 36(7) and 38(6) of the act to support panel members and partners of local panels.

The documents:

provide guidance for Channel panels and PMAPs

provide guidance for panel partners on panel delivery (that is, those authorities listed in Schedule 7 to the Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015 who are required to co-operate with panels and the police in carrying out their functions in Chapter 2 of Part 5 of the Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015)

explain why people may be vulnerable to being drawn into terrorism and describes signs to look for

provide guidance on the support that can be provided to safeguard those at risk of being drawn into terrorism

Channel/PMAP may be appropriate for anyone who is vulnerable to being drawn into any form of terrorism. Channel/PMAP is about ensuring that vulnerable children and adults of any faith, ethnicity or background receive support before their vulnerabilities are exploited by those that would want them to embrace terrorism, and before they become involved in criminal terrorist activity.

Find out how your personal data is stored and used for Channel/PMAP.

We are aware of accessibility issues with this publication. We are working to fix these. Read more about our accessible documents policy

Thank you for your feedback

Report a problem with this page

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Channel and Prevent Multi-Agency Panel (PMAP) guidance

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Channel and PMAP are part of the Prevent strategy. The process is a multi-agency approach to identify and support individuals at risk of being drawn into terrorism.

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It's hard for me to write this letter, as there are many things I want to say, to the me that I was back then. I get that you just wanted to belong, I really do. I know how tough it was to feel like an outsider, not to feel like you fitted in anywhere. You felt like life was going nowhere, no one wanted to know a kid with bad grades and a record of bad behaviour. It seems no one really believed in you or saw your potential. Then someone made you feel heard. A friend who felt just the same as you, who really 'got' you. He talked about the reasons things were going wrong, for you, for him, other friends, family. It seemed to make sense. He talked about immigrants, injustice and race. And you listened without questioning. I wish you hadn't. Instead, you started to speak just like him and I wish you hadn't. You met more new friends online who shared the same views as you. And worse. They lied to you John. They made you feel welcome. You didn't realise they were just using you. The dangers of extremism wasn't something you understood, you only began to realise a while later. You felt part of something for the first time in a long time and it felt good. It felt good to be with them, to take part in extremist rallies, to share a voice. It made you feel powerful and gave you a sense of purpose, when before you had nothing and felt you were going nowhere. Your old friends and family didn't understand, they didn't 'get' you. I wish you had pressed pause and looked around to see the hurt and upset you were causing then. Now it's clear how angry you were, and scared. Too scared to choose another path, despite some of the opinions and content not sitting well with you. I wish you had seen how you were beginning not to belong, with those who really did care about you. Who wanted you to lead your best life, not your worst. Back then, you didn't know that you could choose your own path, that you didn't need to follow people you thought had your best interests at heart, but who really were using you for their own agenda. I wish you had realised then, that they didn't speak for you. They don't speak for anyone who wants a better world. You got so far in, you didn't know how to get back out. It was scary I know, to turn your back on those preaching hate, those who are just looking to others to blame for things that go wrong in life. But you did it John. I'm proud of you. I'm proud of you for taking up the offer of support and the chance to turn your life around. And it was hard. So hard to have your views challenged, to hear some of the facts you had been told by your new 'friends' weren't even true. So hard to no longer belong to a group of people you felt had welcomed you in, online and off. It took time, but you did it and look how far you've come. Now you are supporting other people who want to escape extremism. And you get them, you know the struggle they are going through. You never thought you could change people's lives for the better, but with support you did it and I am proud of the you, that I have now become.

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Act early and tell us your concerns in confidence.

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South Staffordshire Mental Health Services Map

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South Staffordshire Mental Health Services Map

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Exams, whether SATs, GCSEs, A Levels or even internal exams, are a daunting thing for anyone! It can feel like climbing a mountain...

Emotions are natural reactions triggered by events in our lives. Sometimes, we might not even realise we're feeling them.

Managing feelings of anger can feel like having a monster inside of you! It can lead you to do or say things that you later regret, hurting

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The Sandbox | Digital Mental Health Service

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The Sandbox is an award winning digital mental health service for Children and Young People

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Keeping Children Safe in Education 2025

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If you’re involved in, or affected by violence, it’s never too late to get help. Find help and support available to you.

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Talk to a member of our Safeguarding Team.

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Talk to a member of our Safeguarding Team.

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You can contact Miss Foster the Academy Pastoral Manager (DSL), Mrs Jones (Headteacher and DSL) Mrs Cotterill (Deputy Headteacher & DDSL) or Mrs Griffiths (Deputy Headteacher & DDSL) via our school office by calling 01922 476695 or emailing office@stjohnsprimary.academy

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Help in a crisis :: Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust

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A mental health crisis is when you feel your mental health is at breaking point, and you need urgent help and support.

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Y3/4 & 5 had a visit from David Meads from the RNLI 

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Y3/4 & 5 had a visit from David Meads from the RNLI 

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David spoke to our children about water safety! We also discussed how to be safe near water in the winter months too when it is icy.

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The NSPCC is the UK’s leading children’s charity, preventing abuse and helping those affected to recover. Help us be here for children. Please donate now.

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Talking with your child about their feelings

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Talking with your child about their feelings

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'The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse' is a magical and uplifting film adaptation of the renowned children's book by Charlie Mackesy. The story is full of hope and joy while touching on themes like loneliness, making mistakes, friendship, creating a community and asking for help.

The characters in the film each introduce concepts and help 'the boy' to understand his own feelings. The stillness of the film allows space to reflect on what the characters share and the emotions their conversations touch on. These themes and moments are potentially perfect opportunities to start talking with your child about how they feel about themselves and the topics the animation covers.

We spoke to Joanna Hunt, Head of Youth Practice Programmes at The Children's Society and Rebekah Hipkiss, a Childline Supervisor, about how to use the film to start open conversations with your child.

Joanna says: "While tackling a discussion around mental health with a child can be hard, this is completely normal. The best way is to ensure the child feels safe, calm and relaxed. We find watching a film like The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse is a really useful way to start a conversation about how a child may be feeling. It offers space for a child to relate to a character and start to talk about their own feelings, enabling you to listen and gain a better understanding of what they are experiencing right now."

Learn to take a new perspective, like 'the boy'

In the film, 'the mole' suggests that 'the boy' should climb a tree to get a different viewpoint.

If your child is particularly overwhelmed or anxious, it can help to take a look at things from a new perspective. Talk to your child about possible solutions and ways to fix a problem and allow them to feel empowered to make informed decisions.

"Simple techniques like breathing and counting to ten can help calm down a child when in overwhelming situations. Once calm, you can shift focus, take a new perspective and discuss what to do next" says Joanna.

Rebekah echoes this and says, "It's important to be calm, listen and really validate their feelings. Then work with them to think about possible next steps. As parents we often want to fix something ourselves, but this can disempower the young person. It's important that they are involved in that decision making and feel like they've got ownership over it"

"It can be hard for children to talk about difficulties so it's good to have other ways of expressing feelings too. We often use creative therapy as a way to work out problems - this could be journaling, painting, listening to music or drawing to work out feelings. It's important that children are given the privacy to be able to do that and if they feel comfortable, giving them space to share it with you or another trusted adult." says Joanna.

Asking for help can make things easier

There's no shame in asking for help, but it can be difficult at times. As the film shows, help isn't always hard to come by - 'the boy' kindly offers 'the mole' help and 'the mole' accepts the offer. But asking for help can feel embarrassing or awkward. In the film 'the boy' asks 'the horse': "What's the bravest thing you've ever said?" 'the horse' replies "Help... Asking for help isn't giving up. It's refusing to give up."

There are many reasons a child may need help - if a child is feeling lonely for instance. In that circumstance Joanna says: "They can become quite shy and anxious and quiet. They might not want to go out anymore or go to school. Loneliness can also be related to bullying. Children may not know how to ask for help in these situations. If you notice these changes, it's important to ask open ended questions (starting with words like 'How might?', 'What are?' or 'What if...') which will allow your child to open up, rather than 'yes' or 'no' questions like 'do you have friends'?"

Rebekah says, "A lot of children worry about stressing out their parents and call us saying that they don't want to be a burden by sharing their problems. It's about keeping those doors of communication open constantly, not just when things are going wrong or when they might need help. If we're constantly talking and having regular check-ins, it won't feel like a big, massive thing later."

Offer positive reinforcement and affirmation like 'the horse'

In the film, when 'the boy' blames himself for an accident, 'the horse' offers encouragement and helps him to understand that it wasn't his fault.

Children often feel overwhelmed when they think they have made a mistake or have done something wrong. Offering positive reinforcement and words of affirmation can help boost their confidence when things don't go to plan.

"It's about being clear that sometimes we do have bad days, or things don't go to plan," says Joanna. "A lot of the time children think that their parents cope with everything because they don't necessarily show that they're not coping or they're not having a good day. It's important to reaffirm that it's normal for us to not have such a great day from time to time."

Turn a negative experience into a positive one by showing that it's ok to make mistakes so we can learn from them and become better. "You could say that by making mistakes, you are building your armor. If you've made 10 mistakes, then your armour is much stronger, and you can tackle even bigger things as you grow up." says Joanna.

Know that it's OK to be honest about your feelings, like the fox

In the film, 'the fox' talks honestly about his lack of self esteem - that he thinks nobody would be interested in what he has to say.

Parents can sometimes clam up around their children as they want to appear strong. Being a role model by talking openly about struggles you might have gone through as a child or as an adult can be encouraging and can help start a conversation.

Like 'the fox', parents and children alike may struggle with low self-esteem. "We often turn that around and reflect it back: 'If a friend said this to you, what would you say?' - It's about being kind to yourself," says Rebekah.

Joanna agrees and says, "It's normal for parents to have low confidence from time to time and that's something you can share with your child. You can then do things together to start building confidence - like going out to the library, going to the park and playing with other children and speaking to other parents. These are practical things that can help build confidence step by step".

As parents it's also important that you seek help when you feel overwhelmed.

"It can be difficult to hear that your child is struggling so it's also important that you ask their school for help. As a parent, it's also important to have a supportive network around you. This could be leaning on extended family or friends, or you could get involved with local community groups. If you're really struggling, it's important to speak to your GP for advice"

This Parents' Toolkit article has advice for creating a support network.
Watch The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse on BBC One on Christmas Eve at 16:55 and on Christmas Day at 09:00 or on BBC iPlayer.

For more help and information:
The Children's Society offer this collection of wellbeing resources for children.

Childline offer support and advice to children here.

The NSPCC have this useful page on Talking about difficult topics

Parenting NI provides free support for parents across Northern Ireland. You can find the Parenting NI Freephone Helpline here.

The Scottish Association for Mental Health has information about mental health services for young people here.

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The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse: How the film can help you talk with your child about their feelings - BBC Bitesize

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Charlie Mackesy's brilliant animated Christmas film has lots of themes that are perfect for having a conversation with your child about things like kindness, fear, confidence and friendship.

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How much screen time is too much screen time?!

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How much screen time is too much screen time?!

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Dear Parents’ Toolkit... How much screen time is too much for my child?

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Parents from across the UK share their thoughts on screens. When is it okay to use them in parenting? What is ‘screen guilt’? How do I get my child to use them less?

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If your child is viewing content online, particularly on social media, then the images they are seeing may be edited or even fake. A child may not yet be able to distinguish between reality and what is not real/fake, which may impact their own body image. Internet Matters provide advice on how to empower your child to develop a positive body image and what you can do to help.

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Using selfies as a comparison tool
Seeing constant streams of perfect bodies can put unrealistic expectations on young people to look a certain way which can lead to low 'body esteem'.

Pressure to post the perfect selfie
Wanting to be excepted by the in-crowd can put pressure on young people to share personal images simply to improve their social status.

Link between likes' and self-esteem
Young people may put more value in how others see them so getting a negative comment or not enough likes on a post can have a real negative impact on their self-esteem and mental health

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Tackling body image with teens | Internet Matters

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Using selfies as a comparison tool Seeing constant streams of perfect bodies can put unrealistic expectations on young people to look a certain way which can lead to low 'body esteem'. Pressure to post the perfect selfie Wanting to be excepted by the in-crowd can put pressure on young people to share personal images simply to improve their social status.

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Mrs Rachel Jones and Mrs Alison Jackson, are also the link governors for the RSE Curriculum.

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Mrs Rachel Jones and Mrs Alison Jackson, are also the link governors for the RSE Curriculum.

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Roblox is becoming increasingly popular with children, but it can come with potential risks. Please see this article on the NSPCC website, that provides parents with more information about the online platform.

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On Hobnock Road, we now have a Pelican crossing. See the following crib sheet that you can look at with your child to remind them of how to use the Pelican crossing safely.

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Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service have been successfully broadcasting a weekly Safe+Sound programme for Key Stage 2 children since May 2020, with occasional programmes aimed at different age groups. Safe+Sound is a programme of safety, wellbeing and life-skills messages created by our specialist partners then compiled by the Fire Service to produce a programme that is transmitted on the Learn Live channel during term time.

Topics include:

Vulnerability - may include Child Sexual Exploitation, Anti-Social Behaviour, Substance Misuse, Gangs and Youth Violence, Healthy Relationships / Sexual Health, Emotional Well Being, Cyber-crime, Online Safety, extremism/radicalisation and any other relevant issues - delivered by relevant professionals, including Staffordshire Police

What to do in an emergency - may include CPR, making a call for help, what to do in an emergency - delivered by qualified First Aiders/professionals

Staying safe - may include water safety, railway safety, playing out (voids, building sites, in the countryside), road safety, strangers, internet and personal safety - delivered by relevant professionals

Fire safety - may include fire safety in the home, nuisance fires, flames aren't games - delivered by Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service

Wellbeing - may include Dementia Friends, mental health awareness, emotional wellbeing, healthy relationships-delivered by relevant professionals

Next Episode: 31st January 2024

For more information visit: https://www.staffordshirefire.gov.uk/your-safety/safe-and-sound/

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Safe+Sound Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service have been successfully broadcasting a weekly Safe+Sound programme for Key Stage 2 children since May 2020, with occasional programmes aimed at different age groups. Safe+Sound is a programme of safety, wellbeing and life-skills messages created by our specialist partners then compiled by the Fire Service to produce a programme...

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Welcome to Staffordshire ConnectsSearch and find help and support in your community

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Need-to-know: how to set boundaries and build positive relationships

Balancing the various demands parents have to cope with isn't easy and all parents can come under pressure or stress from time to time.

This guide shares practical advice and tips for positive parenting techniques that work well for children - from babies to teenagers. These techniques encourage better behaviour and help parents find out what works for them and their child.

The guide is also a valuable resource for services and professionals offering parenting advice to new parents and those caring for young children or teenagers.

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Balancing the various demands parents have to cope with isn't easy and all parents can come under pressure or stress from time to time. This guide shares practical advice and tips for positive parenting techniques that work well for children - from babies to teenagers.

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Children's Mental Health Week 2024

Children's Mental Health Week 2024 will take place from 5-11 February 2024. This year's theme is 'My Voice Matters'.

My Voice Matters is about empowering children and young people by providing them with the tools they need to express themselves. During Children's Mental Health Week we want all children and young people, whoever they are, and wherever they are in the world, to be able to say - and believe - "My Voice Matters".

We have free resources available to download so that everyone can take part in Children's Mental Health Week. Take a look and see what's available for schools, families and how you can take part and raise vital funds for children's mental health.

Get our resources for schools

Take part and raise money for Place2Be

About Children's Mental Health Week

Place2Be launched the first-ever Children's Mental Health Week in 2015 to empower, equip and give a voice to every child in the UK. It has since become a well recognised event, with hundreds of schools and colleges participating across the UK (and beyond!) as well as hundreds of children, parents and carers.

Every year for the week, Place2Be's expert team develops free resources to help people participate in the week devoted to children's mental health. Our highly adaptable Children's Mental Health Week resources include things like:

assembly guides

group activities

show and tell activities

top tips

fundraising packs

posters.

We also provide our resources in the Welsh language for schools participating in Wales.

Visit our official Children's Mental Health Week site

Previous Children's Mental Health Weeks

Take a look back at our Children's Mental Health Week themes and resources from previous years.

2023

Our theme for Children's Mental Health Week 2023 was Let's Connect. During the week, which ran from 6-12 February 2023, we encouraged people to make healthy, rewarding, and meaningful connections.

You can still access our free resources from 2023, which were all built around the theme of expressing yourself.

2022

Our theme for Children's Mental Health Week 2022 was Growing Together. During the week, which ran from 1-7 February 2022, we explored the different ways we can grow and help others to do so, too.

You can still access our free resources from 2022, which were all built around the theme of expressing yourself.

2021

Our theme for Children's Mental Health Week 2021 was Express Yourself. During the week, which ran from 1-7 February 2021, we highlighted the importance of expressing yourself and encouraged people to explore different ways we can share our thoughts, feelings and ideas.

You can still access our free resources from 2021, which were all built around the theme of expressing yourself.

2020

Our theme for Children's Mental Health Week 2020 was Find Your Brave. During the week, which ran from 3-9 February 2020, we asked people to think about what makes them feel brave. We highlighted that bravery comes in all shapes and sizes and is different for everyone and that finding your Brave can:

build your confidence

grow your self-esteem

make you feel good about yourself.

You can still access our free resources from 2020, which were all built around the theme of finding your brave.

Read out how HRH The Princess Of Wales supported in 2020

Get in touch about Children's Mental Health Week

If you have any questions about Children's Mental Health Week, please call us on 0207 923 5506 or email events@place2be.org.uk.

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Children's Mental Health Week - Place2Be

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The year's Children's Mental Health Week took place on 7-13 February 2022. This year's theme was Growing Together.

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Parents' Resources - Educate Against Hate

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Messages of hate can take many forms. Extremist groups use them to recruit young people. Parents can find answers to common questions and resources to help protect your child below.

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A parents guide to Fortnite: Battle Royale - UK Safer Internet Centre

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In this blog we are giving guidance to parents about Fortnite, looking at what the game is and some of the things to be aware of.

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We all have an important part to play to ensure all children are safeguarded. If you have concerns about the safety and well-being of a child, it is imperative that you information share with the relevant professionals.

If you believe a child is in immediate danger, you must call the Police.

Please see the following websites for further advice and contact details for Staffordshire, Walsall and Wolverhampton addresses.

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We are a county-wide telephone enquiry service for all children who:

Have you got a serious concern about the safety of a child or young person up to the age of 18?

Do you think a child or young person is being harmed or is at risk of being harmed?

Are you worried that a child is living in circumstances where they are treated badly and not cared for properly?

If you've answered yes to any of these questions and you don't believe that the child or young person is being supported by an allocated worker, please contact the Staffordshire Childrens Advice & Support Service immediately.

If you are contacting us about someone over the age of 18 please report this to the adult safeguarding team.

Please note: If the child you are contacting us about already has a dedicated worker please contact them directly in the first instance.

Phone: 0300 111 8007 and select option 1.

Ideally we would want to receive all enquiries by telephone so that we can gather all necessary information in a timely manner and make sure that parental agreement has been obtained from those with parental responsibility unless this places an adult or child at risk of harm.

If you cannot reach us by phone, please make your enquiry online.

For your information before making your enquiry you may wish to check the procedures online website for a glossary of relevant terminology.

Opening times

Out of hours

Outside of the hours above, or on weekends and bank holidays, please contact the Emergency Duty Team by phoning 0345 604 2886.

Professionals

Please refer to the threshold document on the Staffordshire Safeguarding Children's Board website to make sure that your enquiry is in relation to tier 3 or 4 services as Staffordshire Childrens Advice and Support Service does not deal with tier 2 referrals these can be made by yourself direct to your local tier 2 service.

The Staffordshire connects website provides a wealth of services that professionals and families can access without an enquiry being made to Staffordshire Childrens Advice and Support Service (if you type in 'Family Support Providers' in the Children's Centres and Parenting section it will provide you with the contact details for your local tier 2 family support services.) Parents or carers should always be informed that you are contacting us, unless to do so would place them or the children at risk of harm.

Adding supporting documents

If you have already made your enquiry by telephone and wish to submit any forms to support your enquiry you can add these online.

Further information

Earliest help

Find family support providers on Staffordshire Connects.

Spotting child sexual exploitation

Information about recognising, avoiding and supporting children regards child sexual exploitation, grooming, sexting and online safety can be found on these websites:

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Staffordshire Childrens Advice and Support Service

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We are a county-wide telephone enquiry service for all children who: Have you got a serious concern about the safety of a child or young person up to the age of 18? Do you think a child or young person is being harmed or is at risk of being harmed?

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Every year our Reception children have had the opportunity to take part in Mini First Aid, and complete a training session. The children came away with a First Aid certificate and full of knowledge that can help others.

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December 2022

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A decent night's sleep will help children to learn more effectively and make them less susceptible to minor ailments,

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Sleep hygiene in children & young people

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Sleep hygiene in children & young people

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If your child is routinely waking in the night, it is important that they learn to self-settle rather than seeking a parent or joining a parent's bed. This can be difficult to enforce, and may be emotionally challenging, for both child and parent, but parents should remain firm and assertive.

If your child leaves their bed and seeks you out at night-time, try not to engage them in conversation, but lead them quietly and immediately back to bed. This may need to be repeated several times each night, but it is important that your child learns that they will receive the same response from you each time.

If your child is anxious, the use of a night light, cuddly toy or baby monitor may help them to feel safe and learn how to self-settle.

Praising your child in the morning for staying in bed at night can help reinforce good behaviour; this can be aided by the use of a reward chart or stickers, with a small token prize when a certain number of stickers/rewards have been won.

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Sleep hygiene in children and young people

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This information sheet from Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) explains about sleep hygiene. The lead-up and routine around your child's bedtime is referred to as 'sleep hygiene'. Having good sleep hygiene can help your child both to settle to sleep and

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Mrs Rachel Jones - Safeguarding Link Governor

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Mrs Rachel Jones - Safeguarding Link Governor

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Mrs Alison Jackson - Safeguarding Link Governor

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Mrs Alison Jackson - Safeguarding Link Governor

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Access information and resources for parents and carers on keeping your child safer online including conversation starters and video guides.

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Advice for 8-10 year olds: safe ways to game, chat & share online.

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Advice for 8-10 year olds: safe ways to game, chat & share online.

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Advice for 8-10 year olds about safe ways to game, chat and share online.

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Playing games, chatting, and sharing photos and videos can be fun.

If you ever feel worried, upset or scared about something that happens online, tell an adult you trust. They will be able to help you. Whatever happened, it's not your fault.

Click on each button below for advice about safe ways to game, chat and share online.

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Playing games, chatting, and sharing photos and videos can be fun. If you ever feel worried, upset or scared about something that happens online, tell an adult you trust. They will be able to help you. Whatever happened, it's not your fault. Click on each button below for advice about safe ways to game, chat and share online.

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https://www.publichealth.hscni.net/sites/default/files/2019-11/Do%20I%20need%20to%20keep%20my%20child%20off%20school.pdf

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Learn skills to help a baby or child in a first aid emergency

Our First Aid skills are simple, easy-to-learn, and suitable for anyone looking to learn first aid and help others in an emergency. Explore the different skills below to enhance your own learning so you may be able to assist during an emergency.

Staying safe while giving first aid

Please always consider your personal safety when giving first aid. Look out for any dangers and only act when you're confident it is safe to do so.

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Learn simple first aid skills for babies and children so you will feel confident to help in an emergency.

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Mini First Aid Workshop for our Reception children. FEB 2023

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Mini First Aid Workshop for our Reception children. FEB 2023

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Mini First Aid Workshop for our Reception children. FEB 2023

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Mini First Aid Workshop for our Reception children. FEB 2023

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Whether squeezing it in before the school run in the morning or before bed on busy midweek evenings, preparing your child's lunchbox can seem like just another thing on the list.

School meals are a great choice, but if you do make a packed lunch for your child then we've got you covered with our range of quick, easy, healthier lunchbox ideas and tips.

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Lunchbox ideas and recipes - Healthier Families

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Simple, tasty recipes and tips for hassle-free healthier packed lunches.

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How to support a child with depression or anxiety

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Recognise the signs of anxiety and depression in children and get advice on how you can best support a child who needs your help. How to support a child with childhood depression or anxiety.

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Our waterways are beautiful places to visit in all seasons, and winter with its snowy landscapes and frosty mornings can be a great time to visit the canal.

The autumn and winter months can also bring rain and mud to our towpaths, making the surfaces very slippery. Please watch your step. As the temperature drops further, there are some important potential hazards to be aware of.

Spot the hazard

Roll your mouse over the red circles in our image to learn about the potential dangers, learn some interesting facts and get advice about our canals over winter months.

Be prepared

How to stay safe on the canal:

Plan your route - think about where you want to go and how long you want to be out for

Take a friend - it is safer to walk with others

Slow down - the colder it gets, the greater the likelihood of icy and slippery surfaces underfoot. It's easier to stay safe, spot potential hazards and avoid accidents near water when you reduce your speed

Tell someone where you are going - in case you are out for much longer than you say, you can be found more easily

Stay away from the edge - especially when trying to practice social distancing. Although you may be able to see the edge of the towpath even in the snow, it may be slippery

Check the weather - look at the forecast and see what's coming your way

Wear the right clothing - waterproofs, sturdy footwear, warm layers can all help your body cope with the wintry conditions

Take your phone (or even a whistle) - if you get into trouble, or see somebody else in trouble, you can call or whistle for help

Teach children not to go on the ice - it's important for children not to go on the ice under any circumstances

Try to keep to well-lit areas - time your walks to make the most of the daylight; if you need to walk in the evening only use well-lit areas or take a route away from water

Keep dogs on their leads - keep dogs on their leads when near ice and don't throw sticks or toys onto the ice

Take care when out walking, running or cycling in wintery or wet weather. The Trust does not intentionally grit as standard. We will only grit when it has been deemed as required by a site specific risk assessment. Therefore, appropriate footwear or tyres for your bike are highly recommended.

What to do if you fall in

What to do if you see someone in the water

Don't get into the water, instead:

Call the emergency services on 999 as soon possible

Keep an eye on the person

Keep talking to them, and stay near them

If you can, throw line to them or use a tree branch to reach out to them

Even strong swimmers may face difficulties in icy water

You may feel you can help by getting into the water too, but remember that the water is freezing:

All year round the shock of the cold water can really take your breath away and cause your muscles to cramp, making it very difficult for you to stay afloat

There may be objects hidden under the water that could cause you harm

The water may be deeper than you think. Canals don't normally have sloping sides and there are only ladders at locks so it's not easy to get out - especially wearing heavy, wet clothes and helping someone else

Staying on the surface is much harder when you are trying to help someone else, they may panic and push you under

Boaters might not be able to see you in or under the water and won't know to stop - if a boat hits you it can cause serious harm to you and the other person

What to do if your dog gets into the water

Please keep your dog on a short lead along the towpaths so they don't run off and risk jumping into the water. If your dog does go into the water, don't jump in after it, instead:

Encourage your dog to swim over to you where you can lift them out more safely

If they are unable to do this, try to reach them with a line or long branch

For more advice on keeping safe by the water this winter see the RLSS (Royal Life Saving Society UK) website.

Last date edited: 21 November 2022

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Winter water safety | Canal & River Trust

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Our waterways are beautiful places to visit in all seasons, and winter with its snowy landscapes and frosty mornings can really be a great reason to head down to the canals for a walk. However, as the temperature drops there are some important potential hazards to be aware of.

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Jet & The Water Rescue Video (Suitable for EYFS/KS1 & KS2)

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Jet & The Water Rescue Video (Suitable for EYFS/KS1 & KS2)

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Resources for 3-11s - UK Safer Internet Centre

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Films, storybooks and other fun sites, with plenty of information to help you enjoy your time online and stay safe on the internet.

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This programme is an integrated service provided by Midlands Partnership NHS Foundation Trust and brings together health visiting and school nursing.

The programme seeks to deliver improved health and well-being to children, young people and families, and improve school readiness by offering a balance of self-support, support from professions and from the wider community. This includes using digital technology to meet the individual needs of busy modern families in Staffordshire.

All Staffordshire children, young people and families will be offered universal reviews and checks from the programme. Breastfeeding advice and support, maternal mental health support and nutritional advice will be available. Additional professional support will be provided to families where required. Sexual health information, emotional health and wellbeing advice and support will be available via the hubs, Chat Health and clinics only. Take a look at our website for more information on what we offer.

The hub: a central point of access

The Hubs give families and young people advice and support from professionals within the 0-19 services and are the point of access for professionals and other healthcare services.

Contact numbers
Quick Links:
ChatHealth

ChatHealth is a text message service and app for parents and young people aged 11-19 years to ask for health and wellbeing advice (cost of standard rate message).
Numbers to text

Young people in Staffordshire should text 07520 615 721

Parents/carers in Staffordshire should text 07520 615 722

Young people in Stoke-on-Trent should text 07520 615 723

Parents in Stoke on Trent text should text 07312 277 161

Health for Teens

Health for Teens is an NHS website created by and for young people. With a focus on physical and mental health & wellbeing the website offers facts, quizzes and articles created by experts from services including school nursing, health improvement, smoking cessation, dietetics, paediatricians and mental health.

General topics covered include Feelings, Growing up, Health, Lifestyle and Relationships, as well as a diverse range of health topics from mental health to puberty; sexual health to bereavement.

Our local area page includes local news, announcements, young people's NHS services, local partner agencies, a search for a School Nurse function and locally produced articles on young people's health. It enables young people living in Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent to find and access a range of services available to support them.

Who can use the Families' Health and Wellbeing service?

This is a universal programme available to all children and families living in Staffordshire or attending a Staffordshire school (excluding Stoke-on-Trent) where the family have a child or young person up to 19 years old.

Are there any costs?

No

How can I refer?

Referrals to the programme are accepted from:

Self-referrals from families by ringing the Hub or texting ChatHealth on the contact numbers above.

Professionals. Please contact our Hub on the contact numbers above or email West Hub - FHWS.west@mpft.nhs.uk; East Hub FHWS.east@mpft.nhs.uk or Stoke Hub - 019CityHub@mpft.nhs.uk for any queries, referrals, advice or guidance. A referral can be made by ringing the Hub or referral forms for the service can be found on our website. Please send all referrals into the Hubs not directly to teams as this enables us to support you in the most efficient and effective way.

What happens after referral?

Depending on the needs of the child, young person or family, we will respond as soon as we can.

Urgent referrals, including all safeguarding referrals will be made according to Staffordshire Safeguarding Board's policy.

Referrals could be dealt with by a number of methods, for example:

A telephone call to provide information and advice

A face to face appointment

Letters

Skype

Who will we see?

There are a variety of staff roles within the programme for example:

Health visitors

School nurses

Nursery nurses

Support workers

Clinical support workers

They work with children, young people and families via a range of methods such as:

What happens when I come to the service?

The programme will be delivered from a variety of settings to suit the needs of the child, young person or family.

For example at:

A clinic

Chat Health text messaging service

Your home

A community centre

Your school

A nursery

Where can I find further information?

Please visit our website. We also have a quarterly newsletter with lots of helpful articles. The newsletter contains a QR code to tell us what topics you want us to write about in future articles.

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Families Health and Wellbeing Service (0-19) - health visitors and school nurses

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This programme is an integrated service provided by Midlands Partnership NHS Foundation Trust and brings together health visiting and school nursing. The programme seeks to deliver improved health and well-being to children, young people and families, and improve school readiness by offering a balance of self-support, support from professions and from the wider community.

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Concerned about a child or young person?

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Where to go if you are concerned about a child in Walsall or need some advice about Early Help

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Mrs Laura Greenhouse     Mental Health Lead 

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Mrs Laura Greenhouse     Mental Health Lead 

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Mr Jonathan Cooke is our PSHE/RSE Lead. If you have any questions about our RSE Curriculum, please don’t hesitate to ask or follow the link to find out more information.

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Working Together to Safeguard Children 2026

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Working Together to Safeguard Children 2026