The following message is shared on behalf of our colleagues at Avon and Somerset Police, highlighting the risks associated with fireworks misuse, the potential consequences, and the appropriate channels for reporting concerns.
“The misuse of fireworks is extremely dangerous, particularly in built-up areas where large numbers of people are present. Such behaviour can lead to serious and life-changing injuries. The police will be adopting a zero-tolerance approach to anyone found misusing, unlawfully carrying, or purchasing fireworks. Should fireworks be used irresponsibly in or around the city centre - whether over the coming weekend or at any other time - officers will use the full range of available resources to identify and, where appropriate, prosecute offenders. Offences may include assault, criminal damage, and breaches of public order. Where prosecution is not appropriate, Anti-Social Behaviour legislation may be used to prevent further incidents. This could have longer-term consequences for young people, including restrictions on their ability to access and enjoy the city centre beyond the bonfire night period.
We ask that settings support this message by reminding children of the dangers associated with fireworks, the risks involved, and by strongly discouraging any involvement in activities related to their misuse—particularly in the city centre. We will also be working with local businesses to reinforce their responsibilities around the sale of fireworks, ensuring they are sold only to age-verified adults. If your setting becomes aware of any intelligence relating to the misuse of fireworks, please report this through the appropriate channels: 999 (emergency), 101 (non-emergency), or via the online reporting system.
Thank you for your continued support in keeping our communities safe.”
If you need any further advice or support, please contact the Safeguarding in Education Team at safeguardingineducationteam@bristol.gov.uk.
We have been made aware of the recent incident at the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Crumpsall, Manchester. We recognise the heightened levels of concern around protests and other planned activities which have an impact on the communities throughout Bristol. We want to share the correspondence from Department for Education as below. If you have any questions or require any assistance, please reach out to our team anytime at Safeguardingineducationteam@bristol.gov.uk
We have been made aware that there have been several posts circulating on social media from the Great British National Protest calling for people to take part in “opt out days.” These are also being shared by the Bristol Patriots account on social media.
We recognise the heightened levels of concern around protests and other planned activities which have an impact on the communities throughout Bristol. We want to reassure you that Bristol remains a City of Sanctuary, committed to welcoming and supporting people, particularly children, fleeing war and persecution. As a council we reaffirmed this commitment earlier this year, and our Sanctuary Strategy 2025 - 2030 will guide our work over the next five years.
Peaceful protest is a vital part of our democracy. However, we understand that these events may cause concern for you, your friends, your staff, and your families. If you have any concerns about any young people not attending your setting on the proposed opt out dates, please follow your setting’s usual attendance procedures and where appropriate follow your safeguarding procedures.
Prevent in Education Virtual Sessions from the DfE
NEW for 25/26
The first package is intended for DSLs in independent schools.
The second package is directed towards Early Years Foundation Stage practitioners.
Please click here to be taken to all available dates and further details for the webinar sessions on offer
Click on the news title to learn more.
We’re excited to share Butt Naked - a quirky and catchy new music video created by young activists from Integrate UK.
The video challenges the unchecked accessibility of online pornography and its link to rising sexual violence. It also calls for statutory, updated and relevant sex education that reflects young people’s lived experiences and helps them build healthy relationships. Crucially, our young people are demanding an end to parental opt-outs from RSE, arguing that every young person deserves access to the knowledge and tools to understand what a healthy relationship looks like and to be able to keep themselves safe.
Click on the news item to read more.
Training event:
📅 Date: Tuesday, 7 October 2025
🕥 Time: 10:15am – 1:00pm
📍 Venue: Hartcliffe and Withywood Ventures, The Gatehouse Centre, Bristol, BS13 9JN
📧 Contact: capo@barnardos.org.uk
🔗 Register: Barnardo’s CAPO Training Event
Network:
🕛 Time: 12:00pm – 2:00pm
💻 Platform: Online
🎙️ Facilitator: Polly Wright, freelance consultant and former Barnardo’s Children’s Services Manager
Click on the news article to learn more about this.
Prevent Awareness Event Free Online Webinar
Day: Tuesday 23rd September 2025
Session 1 - Time: 9:00 – 12:30
Session 2 – Time: 13:00 – 16:30
to book a place click on this link
Click above title to read more.
As you may be aware a thematic Child Safeguarding Practice Review (CSPR) into serious youth violence in Bristol was commissioned in response to the tragic deaths of Max, Mason and Darrian, and the serious harm suffered by a fourth young person, which occurred within three weeks of each other in early 2024.
This review recognises that the harm caused by serious youth violence extends far beyond those immediately affected, impacting whole communities and generations whose perceptions of safety and well-being are deeply altered.
We want to ensure that all education communities feel informed, prepared, and supported. We recognise that some settings might need to consider a more targeted approach to responding to the publication of the CSPR and the potential associated media coverage. We hope that the pointers and resources below will be helpful in supporting you through this process.
If you were unable to attend the briefing meeting held on the 4 September or would like to remind yourself of the content of the meeting, please access the slides here. Please note these slides are for professional use and not intended to be shared publicly.
Click the heading above to read more.
Contents
Please click on the above news article heading to read more.
2025-26 Annual Safeguarding Refresher Training
2025-26 Annual Safeguarding Refresher Training can be found here if you chose to deliver it yourself.
Please click on the title above to read the full page which includes links to divided sections and video resources.
2025-26 Safeguarding Model Policy
This has been updated alongside our table of changes to accommodate the new version of Working Together to Safeguard Children 2023 and Keeping Children Safe in Education (effective from 1st September 2025). Model Safeguarding Policies and procedures Bristol (bristolsafeguardingineducation.org).
August, September, and November 2025 dates available now!
This Layered Learning CPD Package provides an opportunity to build upon existing knowledge and is made up of three parts: Consolidating Understanding, Reflective Thinking, Resources & Signposting.
The package is made up of 3 parts which are delivered in one half-day session.
CEOP Education has released two free, printable posters to help raise awareness of their online safety support for children, young people, parents and carers.
These posters are perfect for display in schools, youth settings, and community spaces to signpost key support channel.
Download the posters here:
CEOP Education Posters – Official Resource Page
Contents:
Other contents:
The Anti-Bullying Alliance (ABA) has launched a powerful new video titled “Stand With Us”, created with direct input from children who have experienced bullying. This short film gives voice to young people’s lived experiences and highlights what they want adults, especially those in education to know and do in response.
Developed as part of ABA’s ongoing commitment to listening to children, “Stand With Us” is more than just a campaign piece. It’s a heartfelt message from children asking the adults around them to believe them, listen carefully, and take action when they speak up about bullying.
The emergence of AI-generated child sexual abuse material (AI-CSAM) represents a fast-growing and deeply concerning threat to children and young people. In response to a dramatic rise in reports and a clear demand for professional guidance, the CEOP Education team, in collaboration with the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) and the Nations, has released essential new guidance for those working with children.
This resource is designed to help education and safeguarding professionals understand how AI is being misused to create harmful content, the legal implications of AI-CSAM, and how to respond effectively if incidents arise in your setting.
Explore the guidance and ensure you are equipped to help protect children from this emerging risk.
This summer, getting around just got easier for families across the West of England. From 19 July to 5 September 2025, children aged 5–15 can travel for free on local buses—no ticket, ID, or pre-registration needed. This fantastic initiative not only supports families during the school holidays but also opens up opportunities for children to safely access activities, community spaces, and social experiences, helping us all support their wellbeing and development.
🛍️ Complete the survey for a chance to win one of three
£50 high street vouchers!
👉 https://bit.ly/BPCannualsurvey
This survey aims to gather the views of parents and carers of children and young people with SEND, school staff and those working in services for children and young people with SEND. Thank you for taking the time to complete this survey. Your feedback can contribute to improving services and education for children and young people with SEND in Bristol.
The PSHE Association has released new guidance to help schools address the growing influence of misogyny, toxic masculinity, and harmful online content on young people. This resource offers practical strategies for educators to promote critical thinking, respectful relationships, and digital resilience through effective PSHE education.
A new report from the Child Safeguarding Practice Review Panel highlights the need for improved learning following serious incidents where children have been harmed or died due to abuse or neglect.
Key messages include:
Focus on systemic issues rather than blaming individuals.
Persistent problems like poor information sharing and risk assessment still need urgent attention.
Multi-agency collaboration is vital, with a need for safer spaces for professionals to reflect on practice.
Greater emphasis is needed on tackling inequality, diversity, and inclusion in safeguarding work.
The Children’s Commissioner for England has published a new report into mental health care for children.
Findings show:
- demand for mental health support has increased since the previous year;
- anxiety was the most common primary referral reason;
- and there was an increase in children referred for being in crisis in 2023-24, compared with the previous year.
The Commissioner is calling for:
- early access to mental health support for children through their schools and communities;
- greater investment in children’s mental health services to reduce waiting times;
- and legislative reform to offer better protection for those under 16-years-old.
For more detailed information, please refer to the full press notice on the Children's Commissioner's website: Children’s Commissioner Calls for Urgent Action