Safeguarding in Schools

Safeguarding issues in schools can arise in many forms and are often highly distressing for families. Parents frequently contact us where they believe a school has failed to protect their child or has not responded appropriately to serious concerns.

Common safeguarding issues, include:

• Bullying and cyber bullying, including sustained harassment, online abuse, or peer‑on‑peer harm
• Sexual assault, sexual harassment or inappropriate sexual behaviour, whether involving pupils or staff
• Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), where vulnerable children are not adequately safeguarded or supported
• Physical or emotional abuse, or failure to recognise warning signs
• Inadequate safeguarding procedures, poor investigations, or a lack of action by the school.

If a school does not take prompt, appropriate steps, the impact on a child’s mental health, education and confidence can be significant.

How can we support you?

If you are concerned about your child’s safety or wellbeing at school, early legal advice can be crucial. Our role is to help parents understand their rights and ensure safeguarding duties are properly upheld, to ensure the child’s wellbeing.

Safeguarding in education is governed by strict statutory guidance and legal duties. Schools must comply with frameworks such as Keeping Children Safe in Education, alongside their own safeguarding policies and wider education and equality law obligations.

We advise parents on:

• Whether a school has breached its safeguarding obligations
• How to raise or escalate safeguarding concerns effectively
• Concerns arising from special educational needs
• Complaints to schools, governing bodies, local authorities or regulators
• Managing safeguarding investigations and school meetings
• Protecting your child’s welfare during ongoing school processes
• Next steps where urgent action or external reporting is required.

Safeguarding matters often involve sensitive evidence, multiple agencies and significant emotional strain on families. We take a proactive and measured approach, helping parents anticipate issues, avoid unnecessary escalation where possible, and ensure their child’s best interests remain central.

Our advice is always tailored to your child’s individual circumstances, including where safeguarding concerns overlap with special educational needs, mental health issues or school disciplinary processes.

Fixed fee consultation

To give parents clarity and reassurance, we offer a fixed fee online consultation with a specialist safeguarding solicitor. This allows you to explain your concerns fully, understand your options, and receive a clear plan of action without uncertainty over costs.