Information Sharing Duty

Information sharing is an essential part of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. It refers to the responsibility of professionals, including school staff, to share relevant information with appropriate agencies when there are concerns about a child's safety, wellbeing, or development.

The purpose of information sharing is to ensure that children receive the right support at the right time and are protected from harm. Concerns may relate to issues such as neglect, abuse, exploitation, mental health, attendance, or other welfare matters.

Key principles of information sharing include:

• Sharing information that is necessary, proportionate, relevant, accurate, timely, and secure.
• Working in partnership with parents and carers whenever it is appropriate to do so.
• Recognising that concerns about a child's safety or welfare may override the need to obtain consent.
• Ensuring that information is only shared with those who need to know in order to safeguard and support the child.

At St Mary's Catholic Primary School, we take our safeguarding responsibilities seriously. Staff are trained to identify concerns and understand when information needs to be shared with the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), Children's Social Care, the Police, or other relevant agencies. By sharing information appropriately, we can work together to keep children safe and help them achieve the best possible outcomes.

If you have any concerns about the welfare or safety of a child, please contact the school's Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)- Mrs Douglas without delay.