93% of teachers seen safeguarding referrals rise

A new survey from the NSPCC, working with the NASUWT, shows that 93% of teachers have seen a rise of safeguarding referrals in the last year.

The types of referrals that teachers have seen an increase in over the past year include neglect referrals (87% increase), emotional abuse referalls (84%), physical abuse referrals (67%), sexual abuse referrals (50%).

The survey highlights the vital role that teachers and schools play in helping to keep children safe by spotting concerns and being trusted adults.

In response to this, the NSPCC is putting schools at the heart of our annual Childhood Day on 9 June by launching the Childhood Day Mile.

Sir Peter Wanless, CEO of the NSPCC, said: “The vital role that teachers play in keeping children and young people safe cannot be underestimated.

"They are in a prime position to spot concerns, and, in many cases, they are the trusted adults that children turn to when something worrying, or upsetting, has happened to them.

“We know that the pandemic left many children at an increased risk of abuse and neglect and since children returned to school, teachers have been key in raising their hand and reporting concerns to ensure they can get the support they need.

“While we recognise that teachers are an essential part of the jigsaw in protecting children, at the NSPCC, we believe everyone can play their part.

“Strong communities are vital in helping to keep children safe, and that’s why we are encouraging people to do their bit in their community and get behind Childhood Day 2023 by taking on the Childhood Day Mile.

“Everyone can get involved from schools, work colleagues and families and by taking part, you’ll be helping the NSPCC ensure child protection is a top priority.”