The P Pod

The Somerset Safeguarding Children Partnership
The P Pod

Welcome to the Partnership Podcast - The P Pod, from the Somerset Safeguarding Children Partnership! Meet the agencies who will help you to support children, young people and their families across Somerset. Explore local and national learning and how to improve your safeguarding practice. If you would like to take part in a future podcast or have any questions or comments arising from any episodes we'd love you to contact us at theppod@somerset.gov.uk www.somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk

  1. 7 JUL

    Tackling Exploitation Together with the NWG (National Working Group)

    Get in touch with us at The P Pod In this episode of the P-Pod, Steve Macabee speaks with Lin Sands from the National Working Group (NWG) about the organisation's mission to combat child exploitation and modern slavery. They discuss the importance of collaboration with various partner organisations, the role of local networks in safeguarding, and the challenges faced by professionals in the field.  Lin emphasizes the significance of language in safeguarding discussions, the impact of technology on exploitation, and the need for continuous training for practitioners.  The conversation also highlights the new digital toolkit designed to help disrupt exploitation and the common myths surrounding child exploitation and the importance of a multi-agency approach and the need for empowerment and support for all professionals involved in safeguarding children. Check out the NWG's website HERE Access the updated digital disruption toolkit HERE Join the webinar launch of the toolkit on the 15th July 2025 HERE Suggested reflective questions based on this episode: How do we ensure that our safeguarding policies are effectively communicated and understood by all staff members?Reflect on the current methods used to disseminate safeguarding policies and whether they are accessible and clear to everyone in the organization.What strategies can we implement to better identify and support individuals who may be at risk?Discuss the tools and techniques currently in place for identifying at-risk individuals and explore new approaches that could enhance early detection and intervention.How do we balance the need for confidentiality with the necessity of sharing information to protect those at risk?Consider the challenges of maintaining confidentiality while ensuring that critical information is shared appropriately to safeguard individuals.What are some of the common terms or use of language that we use in our practice and how could these impact on identifying and responding to risks of exploitation?Consider the use of acronyms or terms used in conversation or case recording. Also consider what are some of the terms you hear from other agencies and how you may consider challenging these is needed. Further details of topics discussed can be found on the SSCP Website: somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk If you have any comments or questions from this podcast, or would like to be involved in a future episode please get in touch at ThePPod@somerset.gov.uk To access the transcript for this episode go to The P Pod (somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk) and click on the episode for details.

    57 min

  2. 26 JUN

    Children, Violence & Vulnerability - the SSCP Forum Week Special

    Get in touch with us at The P Pod This week we bring you an extended special episode, following on from our June 2025 forum week of webinars that took place, focusing on the subject of Children, Violence and Vulnerabilities. Throughout the week we have amazing guest presenters join us, including the Youth Endowment Fund, the NWG, Beyond Equality and UNICEF to name just a few. Join us for this special episode bringing you highlights from the week. To watch the full recordings of each webinar, as well as access the presentations and links to further information and resources go to the SSCP's Forum Week webpage June 2025 - Somerset Safeguarding Children Partnership You can also find recordings from previous forum's there, or go to our YouTube Channel to view all forum week webinars. Further details of topics discussed can be found on the SSCP Website: somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk If you have any comments or questions from this podcast, or would like to be involved in a future episode please get in touch at ThePPod@somerset.gov.uk To access the transcript for this episode go to The P Pod (somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk) and click on the episode for details.

    1h 32m

  3. 9 JUN

    The Future of Education in Safeguarding

    Get in touch with us at The P Pod In todays episode we speak with Natalie Hanna, Headteacher and Executive member of the SSCP, representing the education sector where we explore the evolving role of education within the safeguarding partnerships, both in Somerset, and nationally.  We highlight the challenges and opportunities faced in integrating education as a statutory partner and the complexities of multi-agency collaboration, the importance of effective communication, and the future aspirations for safeguarding children through education.  Insights from Natalie provide a valuable perspective on the journey towards a more inclusive safeguarding framework. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Safeguarding Partnerships 02:58 The Role of Education in Safeguarding 05:50 Challenges in Representation and Accountability 09:07 Insights from the Executive Group Experience 11:57 Navigating Complexities of Multi-Agency Work 14:54 Future of Education as a Statutory Partner 18:12 Establishing Effective Communication Channels 20:46 The Education Safeguarding Forum 24:04 Transitioning Leadership and Future Aspirations 26:57 Key Messages for Future Leaders 30:09 Reflections on Systemic Changes 32:53 Conclusion and Future Directions Reflective Questions: 1. How can we ensure that the voice of all educational settings—including early years, alternative provision, and independent schools—is effectively represented in safeguarding discussions and decisions? This question encourages teams to reflect on inclusivity and representation, especially in light of the fragmented education system Natalie describes. 2. In what ways can we reduce duplication and streamline safeguarding processes between schools, trusts, and local authorities to minimize workload and maximize impact? This addresses the concern Natalie raised about overlapping audits and the need for better alignment between different safeguarding bodies. 3. How can we strengthen communication and collaboration between education and other safeguarding partners (e.g., health, police, social care) to bridge the gap between early help and crisis response? This invites reflection on the systemic divide Natalie observed between education’s preventative focus and other agencies’ reactive roles. 4. What structures or forums do we need to establish or improve to ensure that safeguarding insights from the ground level are fed into strategic decision-making? This question supports thinking about sustainability and the importance of feedback loops, as highlighted by the creation of the Education Safeguarding Forum. Further details of topics discussed can be found on the SSCP Website: somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk If you have any comments or questions from this podcast, or would like to be involved in a future episode please get in touch at ThePPod@somerset.gov.uk To access the transcript for this episode go to The P Pod (somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk) and click on the episode for details.

    36 min

  4. 26 MAY

    Sexual Health and Safeguarding

    Get in touch with us at The P Pod Summary Today's episode explores the vital role of SWISH, the Somerset-wide integrated sexual health service, in supporting young people's sexual health needs.  The discussion highlights the challenges faced by young people, including peer pressure, social media influences, and barriers to accessing services. The importance of consent, safeguarding, and collaboration with multi-agency partners is emphasized, along with the need for improved access for vulnerable populations. The conversation concludes with reflections on the future directions for sexual health services and the integration of technology. You can find out more about SWISH by visiting their website HERE Reflective Questions for Practitioners: 1. How can we better support young people in navigating misinformation about sexual health, especially from social media platforms like TikTok?  Reflect on how misinformation impacts young people's understanding of contraception, consent, and healthy relationships. Consider how your team can proactively address this in your practice.   2. In what ways can we improve our approach to identifying and responding to signs of child-on-child abuse or exploitation in young people's relationships? Use this to explore how curiosity, open conversations, and trauma-informed approaches can help uncover hidden safeguarding concerns. 3. How effectively are we working with other agencies (e.g., health, education, police, social care) to safeguard children and young people, and where are the gaps in communication or information sharing? Reflect on real or hypothetical cases where multi-agency collaboration either succeeded or faced challenges. What systems or practices could be improved?   4. How inclusive and accessible are our safeguarding and sexual health services for young people with additional needs or from marginalized groups? Consider how your service adapts to meet the needs of young people with SEND, those in care, or those facing cultural or societal barriers. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to SWISH and Its Importance 02:41 Understanding Young People's Needs and Pressures 05:08 The Impact of Social Media on Sexual Health 06:51 Barriers to Accessing Sexual Health Services 09:42 Navigating Relationships and Consent 12:10 Addressing Child on Child Abuse 14:08 Safeguarding and Information Sharing Challenges 21:38 Understanding Informed Consent and Exploitation 22:48 Linking SWISH with Support Services 24:00 Engaging Young Voices in Service Development 25:47 Supporting Young People with Additional Needs 27:34 Conversations Around Consent 33:12 Multi-Agency Collaboration in Safeguarding 36:34 Improving IT Systems for Better Communication Further details of topics discussed can be found on the SSCP Website: somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk If you have any comments or questions from this podcast, or would like to be involved in a future episode please get in touch at ThePPod@somerset.gov.uk To access the transcript for this episode go to The P Pod (somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk) and click on the episode for details.

    41 min

  5. 12 MAY

    The Hidden Dangers of Non-Fatal Strangulation - Dr. Lou Newbury

    Get in touch with us at The P Pod In today's episode we're lucky enough to be joined by Dr. Lou Newbury, Named Doctor for Child Safeguarding from Somerset Foundation Trust who talks to us about the importance of understanding non-fatal strangulation for both adults and children and how crucial it is that we understand the signs, symptoms and risks associated with it, as well as how this is communicated to others when we have concerns that non-fatal strangulation may have taken place. If you'd like to get in touch with Lou to find out more she can be contacted at Louise.Newbury@SomersetFT.nhs.uk The Institute for Addressing Strangulation website, referred to by Lou in this episode can be found HERE Takeaways: The Domestic Abuse Act 2021 expanded the definition of domestic abuse to include coercive behaviour. Children witnessing domestic abuse are classified as victims.Non-fatal strangulation is a significant risk factor for future homicide.Strangulation can cause severe internal injuries without visible signs.Victims often do not use the term 'strangulation' to describe their experience.The pressure required to occlude blood vessels in the neck is surprisingly low.Medical professionals must be vigilant in assessing potential strangulation cases.Multi-agency collaboration is crucial for effective response to strangulation incidents.Training and resources are available to help professionals recognize signs of strangulation.Long-term psychological effects can result from strangulation incidents. Reflective Questions for Professionals Based on this Episode: Recognition and Response:How confident are we in our ability to recognize the signs and symptoms of non-fatal strangulation in both adults and children, and what steps can we take to improve our vigilance and response?Impact and Support:What long-term psychological and physical effects of non-fatal strangulation should we be aware of, what may this look like for those we work with and how can we better support victims in accessing the necessary medical and psychological care?Collaboration and Communication:How effectively are we collaborating with other agencies (e.g., healthcare, police, social services) to address concerns of non-fatal strangulation, and what can we do to enhance our multi-agency communication and cooperation?Policy and Practice:How well do our current policies and practices address the issue of non-fatal strangulation, and what improvements can we make to ensure a comprehensive and effective approach?Further details of topics discussed can be found on the SSCP Website: somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk If you have any comments or questions from this podcast, or would like to be involved in a future episode please get in touch at ThePPod@somerset.gov.uk To access the transcript for this episode go to The P Pod (somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk) and click on the episode for details.

    39 min

  6. 28 APR

    The Voices of Children & Young People in Action

    Get in touch with us at The P Pod In today's episode we've been lucky enough to speak to Fiona Phur, who we manage to catch just hours before she retired from a long and effective career where she has worked tirelessly with children and young people across Somerset to gain their voices and represent their views at the highest level to those who effect change. Fi talks to us about the importance of ensuring the voices of children and young people are kept at the heart of services at all times, how she and her team have worked to accomplish this, how the various young people's groups she supports ensure they are representative of as many young people as possible and how even the smallest of voices can make the biggest changes. You can find out more about the work of the Participation Team HERE and details of the Children & Young People Plan (CYPP) HERE Further details of topics discussed can be found on the SSCP Website: somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk If you have any comments or questions from this podcast, or would like to be involved in a future episode please get in touch at ThePPod@somerset.gov.uk To access the transcript for this episode go to The P Pod (somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk) and click on the episode for details.

    52 min

  7. 3 MAR

    Gaining the Voices of Children & Young People with Route1 Advocacy

    Get in touch with us at The P Pod In todays episode we're pleased to be joined by Helen McInnes and Iain Gibson from Route1 Advocacy to talk about the work they do to gain the voices of children & young people and provide top tips on how you can gain their voices as well, from direct conversation, to practical engagement and observation. You can find out more about Route1 Advocacy, or about volunteering with them here:   Route1 advocacy website Route 1 advocacy on Facebook  Route 1 advocacy on Instagram Further details of topics discussed can be found on the SSCP Website: somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk If you have any comments or questions from this podcast, or would like to be involved in a future episode please get in touch at ThePPod@somerset.gov.uk To access the transcript for this episode go to The P Pod (somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk) and click on the episode for details.

    56 min

  8. 17 FEB

    An Overview of the National Child Safeguarding Practice Review Panel Annual Report 2023-24 with Sally Shearer OBE

    Get in touch with us at The P Pod We're so pleased to be joined back in the studio today by Sally Shearer from the National Child Safeguarding Practice Review Panel to provide an overview of the latest Annual Report findings, based on 330 reviews that have taken place nationally between 2023-24. In this episode we explore the key themes from the report, what this looks like in practice and how agencies supporting families should be responding to these themes. Links to both the Annual Report and the recent National Panel Review into Child Sexual Abuse within the Family Environment (which we also talked about in a recent episode with Dr. Anna Ridell) can be found here: Child Safeguarding Practice Review Panel: annual report 2023 to 2024 - GOV.UK National review into child sexual abuse within the family environment - GOV.UK Further details of topics discussed can be found on the SSCP Website: somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk If you have any comments or questions from this podcast, or would like to be involved in a future episode please get in touch at ThePPod@somerset.gov.uk To access the transcript for this episode go to The P Pod (somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk) and click on the episode for details.

    50 min
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About

Welcome to the Partnership Podcast - The P Pod, from the Somerset Safeguarding Children Partnership! Meet the agencies who will help you to support children, young people and their families across Somerset. Explore local and national learning and how to improve your safeguarding practice. If you would like to take part in a future podcast or have any questions or comments arising from any episodes we'd love you to contact us at theppod@somerset.gov.uk www.somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk

Information

  • Creator
    The Somerset Safeguarding Children Partnership
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    49
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Somerset Safeguarding Children Partnership
  • Show Website
    The P Pod

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