Our Offer of early Help

Early Help

You are able to download this policy HERE

Summary

The document outlines the early help services and support available for families, children, and young people in Gloucestershire, focusing on various aspects of well-being, education, and safeguarding.

Universal Early Help Services in Gloucestershire
This section outlines the various early help services available for families in Gloucestershire.

Gloucestershire Family Information Service (FIS) provides impartial information on childcare, finances, parenting, and education for families with children aged 0-19 (or 25 for those with additional needs).
Contact FIS via email at familyinfo@gloucestershire.gov.uk or call (0800) 542 0202.
The GSCB website offers important information on child safety and early help options.
Dunalley School provides universal support through pastoral care and an online survey for pupils to express concerns.

Dunalley School's PSHE/SMSC Curriculum
This section describes the comprehensive curriculum aimed at promoting student well-being and safety.

The curriculum covers topics such as relationship and sex education, e-safety, bullying prevention, and emotional well-being.
Specific lessons address issues like drugs, personal safety, and healthy living.
Play therapy is employed to support student well-being, with staff available for individual advice.
The curriculum is tailored to meet the specific needs of pupils, ensuring a bespoke approach to well-being.

Support for Vulnerable Young People
This section details the services provided for vulnerable young people aged 11-19 in Gloucestershire.

The Youth Support Team offers services including support for youth offending, looked-after children, and early intervention for health issues.
General inquiries can be made at 01452 426900, with referrals available at 01452 427923.
Support is also provided for young people with learning difficulties, housing issues, and teenage parents.

Addressing Mental Health and Substance Abuse
This section highlights resources for mental health and substance misuse concerns.

The website onyourmindglos.nhs.uk provides information for young people and parents regarding mental health issues.
Referrals can be made to school nurses or CAMHS for further support.
Drug education is integrated into the school curriculum, with additional support from Info Buzz for substance misuse issues.

Safeguarding Against Child Exploitation
This section outlines the protocols for safeguarding children against exploitation and abuse.

Information on child sexual exploitation (CSE) is available on the Gloucestershire Safeguarding Children Partnership website.
Referrals for suspected CSE should be made to social care and the police.
The NSPCC and PACE provide resources for preventing child exploitation and supporting affected families.

Domestic Abuse Support Services
This section describes the support available for individuals affected by domestic abuse.

GDASS offers tailored support packages for those experiencing domestic abuse, with a helpdesk available for immediate assistance.
The helpdesk operates Monday to Friday, providing advice and referrals for those in need.
Additional resources are available for identifying and supporting children affected by domestic abuse.

Preventing Radicalisation and Extremism
This section discusses the measures in place to prevent radicalisation and extremism among young people.

Schools are required to adhere to the Prevent duty under the Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015.
Training is provided for staff to recognize signs of radicalisation and how to report concerns.
Resources are available for parents to safeguard their children from extremist influences.

Addressing Missing Children and Education
This section outlines the protocols for addressing children who are missing from home or education.

The ASTRA project provides support for young people who have run away, offering advice and solutions.
Referrals for children missing education can be made to the Access to Education Team at Gloucestershire County Council.
The team ensures that children missing education are offered full-time education within two weeks of notification.

Online Safety Resources for Parents
This section provides resources for parents to ensure their children's online safety.

Various organizations offer guidance on internet safety, including Childline, CEOP, and the UK Safer Internet Centre.
Resources are available for discussing online behavior, setting boundaries, and reporting harmful content.
Parents are encouraged to utilize tools and checklists to help keep their children safe online.