Thank you to those who joined us for the DSL Networks this week. We continue to encourage all Bristol settings in their role as relevant agencies to participate in future networks and help us shape a community of practice.
Click here to view and download the slides from the Network.
Please read about the summaries of the network below.
Schools were reminded that the current Use of Reasonable Force in Schools guidance remains in place until 31 March 2026. A new statutory document—Restrictive Interventions, Including the Use of Reasonable Force in Schools—will come into force on 1 April 2026.
The meeting also discussed national recommendations arising from the Child Safeguarding Practice Review into the death of Sara Sharif, focusing particularly on strengthening Elective Home Education procedures. Recommendations include mandatory meetings with parents, home visits within two weeks of withdrawal, and improved safeguarding pathways when parents disagree about home education.
Avon and Somerset Police have fully implemented automated domestic abuse notifications to educational settings. DSLs were invited to provide feedback on the new system, particularly on whether the automated format captures the context required to support children effectively.
MASH reinforced the importance of same‑day responses to information requests—ideally within four hours—to ensure threshold decisions can be made within statutory timescales. DSLs were reminded to provide rich, contextual information about children, including their lived experience, daily presentation, and known concerns.
Regional Prevent updates highlighted increasing online risks linked to “Com Networks”—online groups where under‑18s may become involved in harmful or extremist content. The local threat level remains Substantial. DSLs were encouraged to review risk assessments and ensure staff are confident about signs of radicalisation and referral processes.
Barnardo’s introduced their evidence‑based MDFT programme for young people aged 13–17 involved in substance use and at risk of offending. The service will run alongside a clinical trial, with schools and referrers asked to support eligibility checks and alternative provision for those in the control group.
The citywide Safer Connections team outlined their work addressing harm occurring outside the home, including exploitation, serious violence and contextual risks. Schools were encouraged to share local intelligence early, seek advice, and access specialist contextual safeguarding support.
Analysis of complaints in the first half of the academic year identified key themes for DSLs:
The October spike in complaints suggests the need for strong early‑term vigilance. DSLs were encouraged to continue strengthening clear reporting routes for pupils, parents and staff, and to reinforce safeguarding culture across settings.
A new streamlined online EHE notification system has been launched to improve safeguarding information sharing. Schools now have a consistent mechanism to report concerns and provide contextual information at the point of withdrawal.
Upcoming training includes:
Full details and booking links are available via the Safeguarding in Education website.
Updates from Bristol Neighbourhoods emphasised improved staffing, reduced caseloads, and strengthened multi‑agency working. OFSTED’s recent visit highlighted positive practice, strong relationships with families, and improvements in consistency of support for children in need and child protection.