Keeping children safe is everyone’s responsibility. This page brings together key national guidance, local procedures, and support for Early Years providers in Sutton.
Cognus Education Safeguarding Team
The Education Safeguarding Team at Cognus supports Early Years settings with advice, training, audits, and policy development. The link below will allow you to access links to Cognus Bitesize Safeguarding Training, Commonly Asked Questions and Safeguarding Briefings.
Welcome information – Education Safeguarding Team – Cognus
Safeguarding Support for Sutton Schools and Settings
National Guidance
Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) statutory framework
The statutory framework sets requirements for learning, development, and welfare for children from birth to five. It ensures settings meet safeguarding standards, maintain staff qualifications, and support early learning goals. Updated framework versions are available for both childminders and group/school-based providers.
Early years foundation stage (EYFS) statutory framework – GOV.UK
Working Together to Safeguard Children
Statutory guidance on how organisations work together to keep children safe. Covers referrals, multi-agency working, and safeguarding arrangements.
Working together to safeguard children – GOV.UK
Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE)
Statutory guidance for schools, colleges, and early years providers with regard to safeguarding and safer recruitment. The latest version includes sections on staff responsibilities, safer recruitment, allegations management, and child-on-child abuse. All staff are required to read at least Part One.
Keeping children safe in education – GOV.UK
SEND Code of Practice
The SEND Code of Practice emphasises the duty of schools and settings to identify and support children with special educational needs early, ensuring they receive appropriate help to thrive safely. By promoting inclusive practices and clear communication with families, it helps protect vulnerable children from harm, neglect, or barriers to learning.
Local Partnerships & Procedures
Contact Children’s Social Care
Information about what to do if you are worried about a child including a link to make a CFCS referral:
Report a concern about a child – sutton.gov.uk
Sutton Local Safeguarding Children Partnership (LSCP)
Coordinates safeguarding arrangements across Sutton. Find local thresholds, policies, training, and learning from reviews.
Sutton Local Safeguarding Children Partnership
How to make a good quality referral for a concern about a Sutton child
Guidance and templates for clear, evidence-based referrals to the Children’s First Contact Service.
How to make a good quality referral for a concern about a Sutton child
Children’s First Contact Service – Bite Size Briefing for Professionals
Quick guide to CFCS roles, thresholds, and referral routes.
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Introduction to LADO
The Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) manages allegations against adults working with children. Contact the LADO if an allegation suggests harm, a relevant offence, or risk of harm.
Sutton Local Safeguarding Children Partnership – Induction Modules
The link below will allow you to access more information about the LADO for Sutton including contact details and a link to make a referral:
The role of the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) – sutton.gov.uk