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Outlines the process for resolving professional disagreements in safeguarding cases, ensuring timely and effective multi-agency responses. Escalation and Resolution Policy In situations where agencies or professionals have differing opinions on safeguarding decisions or actions, the CSCP Escalation and Resolution Policy provides a structured process to follow, ensuring that any conflicts are addressed effectively and in the best interest of the child. The policy helps professionals navigate disputes, maintain strong working relationships, and ensure that safeguarding efforts remain coordinated and focused on child welfare. Purpose and scope of policy The purpose of this policy is to explain what to do when any professional has a concern or disagreement with another agency’s decision or action related to a child. It aims to keep the focus on the child’s safety and well-being by promoting a culture of professional challenge and providing the framework for timely and effective resolutions. Working Together 2023 states that 'clear escalation policies for staff to follow when their child safeguarding concerns are not being addressed within their organisation or by other agencies’ should be in place. Similarly, Keeping Children Safe in Education promotes that - ‘if, after a referral, the child’s situation does not appear to be improving, the referrer should consider following the local escalation procedures'. This policy therefore relates to the multi-agency children’s workforce working with children and families receiving support and services at Early Help, Child in Need, Child Protection, and Looked After Children. This policy should be read in conjunction with the London Child Protection Procedures, Part B1 Chapter 11 ‘Professional Conflict Resolution’. This policy does not replace the need for single-agency dispute resolution procedures which should be in place to manage disputes on decisions between internal services (such as Children’s Social Care CERPs). Nor is this policy a complaint policy – if there is a complaint about professional conduct or a particular single agency policy should be followed. If the complaint is about the decisions of the Croydon Safeguarding Children Partnership, it should be directed to the CSCP Executive Group who should alert the CSCP Independent Scrutineer. This Escalation and Resolution Policy promotes both an informal (Stages 1- 2) and formal (Stages 3 -5) approach to resolving issues that arise. This policy is reviewed biennially by the CSCP Quality Assurance Group. Definition Problem resolution is an integral part of joint working to safeguard children, and professional challenge is a fundamental part of professional responsibility. In this context, escalation and resolution is about raising concerns or challenging decisions about practice or actions which, according to those holding the concerns, may significantly impact the protection and well-being of the child(ren). Occasionally situations may arise when professionals within an agency consider that the decision made by professionals from another agency is not an adequate or a safe decision. Many professional challenges will be resolved on an informal basis by contact between the professionals and agencies involved. However, drift arising out of professionals’ differences should be avoided; unresolved concerns should be addressed using this policy. Disagreements and difficulties could arise in a number of areas, but are most likely to arise around: Deciding levels of safeguarding and protection needs Roles and responsibilities of agencies Quality and progression of plans at Early Help, Child in Need, Child Protection, or for Looked After Children Professional vocabulary and communication issues Understanding professional perspectives. In some instances, finding a way forward may not include changes to original decisions. However, through raising concerns and improving shared understanding through effective dialogue, the overall quality and robustness of the decisions will be greater. Policy principles The policy applies the following principles to help ensure that best practice is upheld, these should be applied to both informal (Stages 1-2) and formal (Stages 3-5) approaches to resolving disputes: The child's safety is the focus Critically reflective Restorative in approach Relationships and dialogue are valued Professional challenge and curiosity are valued The child’s safety is the focus Disputes should never leave a child at risk; disputes should be raised promptly and at the earliest opportunity. Maintaining an outcome focus on making the child safer, rather than focusing on processes - promotes openness between and amongst the professional networks. Critically reflective Where differences and disputes arise, or difficulties in complex and ‘stuck’ cases - it is important that critical reflective practice is upheld. Different professions and disciplines will hold particular theories of knowledge, practice, and opinions on what action is required. This policy supports convening a shared reflective and purposeful discussion to inquire and map professionals’ views, approaches, and interventions on the case. The CSCP supports the use of a multi-agency reflective group consultation, to help unpick the presenting challenges and difficulties to achieve improved coherence of the issues and agreement to a way forward. Restorative in approach Maintaining a principle of restorative approach helps create behaviours that are respectful of relationships, helping achieve effective and positive dialogue. An understanding of shared responsibility can be strengthened by ensuring everyone’s voice is heard and different positions understood; when all professional views and expertise are shared best outcomes for a child can be generated. Relationships and dialogue are valued Across and between the child and family’s network professional relationships must be established and maintained through effective dialogue, especially at points of transition and hand-over. Where differences, disputes, or difficulties arise - direct and active dialogue should be prioritised to enable shared perspectives, and exchange of information and ensure the inclusion of the professional network in making decisions. Professional curiosity and challenge are valued By maintaining an open stance to receive and provide information – the act of asking questions of other professionals and responding to questions can help avoid assumptions, reduce defensiveness, and encourage a move away from ‘knowing positions. At all stages, it should be considered that whilst decisions may not change, any challenge to those decisions will be of benefit to the quality and robustness of those decisions. Resolving disagreements in safeguarding - stages of escalation It should always be clear that no child is at immediate risk of harm while disputes are being resolved, with resolutions focused on the child’s needs. The agency with concerns should discuss them with their line manager or safeguarding lead. If concerns persist, proceed to Stage 1. Important reminders: Each stage should be completed within 7 working days or less, with all efforts made to resolve at the earliest opportunity Concerns should be specific, evidence-based and accurately recorded on the child’s record. Discussions and outcomes of disagreements should be recorded. A multi-agency group reflective consultation should be actively considered at Stage 3, this is for cases that are stuck, or matters are proving difficult to resolve The CSCP has the responsibility to identify practice and procedural issues, the Escalation Notification Form should be used and submitted at Stages 3, 4 and 5 as appropriate The principles of this policy underpin its application and should be considered when raising concerns These processes may not fit neatly into all agencies management structures; the principles and processes should be applied as best as possible. Purpose of policy Principles Resolving disagreements Escalation stages Recording and Reporting At all stages, a record should be kept on the child’s record within each agency’s case management systems. In particular, this must include written communication about agreed outcomes and how outstanding issues will be pursued. The CSCP will report on specific issues or recurring themes relating to practice and policy issues. This data will be collated from submitted Escalation Notification Forms and will be referred to the Quality Improvement Group for its recommendations on which aspects of practice or policy should be addressed. This data will also be used in the Annual Report. Whistleblowing Whistleblowing provides an avenue for professionals to raise concerns about unsafe practices, poor decision-making, or organisational misconduct that could impact a child’s safety or well-being. This policy encourages professionals to use established whistleblowing procedures when other escalation methods do not address the concern effectively. Professionals who feel unable to raise their concerns through the standard escalation routes outlined in this policy or who believe their concerns have not been addressed appropriately should refer to their organisation's whistleblowing policy. Concerns can also be raised with the CSCP Independent Scrutineer or other appropriate safeguarding leads. Clear records of whistleblowing disclosures, including their outcomes, should be maintained securely and separately from the child’s case files, ensuring confidentiality and protecting the whistleblower’s identity wherever possible. Recording and reporting Documentation Supporting Documents for Safeguarding Disputes These resources are designed to help professionals manage and resolve safeguarding concerns, always keeping the child’s welfare as the top priority. To download a document: On desktop: Click the relevant row. On mobile : You’ll need to switch to the desktop version of the site for full functionality. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us: cscp@croydon.gov.uk Document Description Escalation and resolution policy This policy outlines the procedures for resolving professional disagreements concerning safeguarding decisions or actions. It emphasises both informal and formal approaches to ensure timely and effective resolutions, focusing on the child's safety and well-being. Notification form A form to be used at Stages 3, 4, and 5 of the escalation process. It facilitates the documentation and communication of concerns that require formal resolution. Escalation stages (flowchart) A flowchart detailing the five stages of escalation, from initial discussions between frontline workers to escalation to the CSCP Executive. It serves as a visual guide to navigate the escalation process effectively. Case of Concern form Use this form to report near-miss safeguarding cases with serious practice issues. It supports multi-agency learning to prevent future incidents. For case escalation, use the Escalation Notification Form.

Guidance for professionals on making safeguarding referrals to Croydon MASH and understanding the London Continuum of Need, ensuring referrals are consistent, evidence based and aligned to the correct threshold. Thresholds and Referrals If you work with children, young people, or families in Croydon, it’s important to know how and when to make a referral when concerns arise. What is a Threshold Thresholds help professionals decide what level of support or intervention a child or family may need. They ensure concerns are assessed consistently across agencies by setting out the different levels of need, harm, and risk, and helping practitioners determine whether Early Help, targeted intervention, or statutory social care involvement is appropriate. Understanding thresholds is essential before making a referral to the Croydon Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH). A referral is made when a professional shares concerns about a child’s welfare or safety that may meet the threshold for statutory assessment. Referrals may be based on: Observed harm or risk of harm Concerns about neglect, abuse, or unmet needs Escalation from Early Help or support services The MASH brings together professionals from social care, police, health, education, and other services to share information, assess risk, and make timely decisions. Applying thresholds correctly helps ensure children receive the right help at the right time. Understanding Thresholds of Need Before making a referral, it is important to understand the level of need or risk. Across London, professionals use a shared framework called the Continuum of Need, which helps determine the most appropriate support for each child and family. Practitioners in Croydon should refer to the London Safeguarding Continuum of Need Matrix to identify the correct threshold before submitting a referral. This ensures that decisions are consistent, evidence based and aligned to the level of need identified. Using the matrix supports effective professional judgement and strengthens the quality of information shared with the MASH. View the Threshold Continuum of Need Matrix ↗ Thresholds Continuum of Need Matrix Title Description Example Level 1 - Universal Needs met by universal services such as schools, GPs, and Family Hubs. Child is healthy, attending school regularly, supported by parents. Level 2 - Early Help Emerging worries that can be addressed with targeted support. Family experiencing difficulties with housing or parenting. Level 3 - Child in Need Complex or multiple needs requiring a statutory Children’s Social Care assessment (Section 17, Children Act 1989). Ongoing neglect concerns, or a child needing coordinated multi-agency support. Level 4 - Child Protection Acute risk of significant harm requiring urgent intervention (Section 47, Children Act 1989). Child experiencing physical or sexual abuse, or severe neglect. Making Effective Referrals in Croydon Your first point of call for understanding thresholds and making a referral Effective safeguarding relies on professionals and community organisations recognising concerns early, understanding levels of need, and knowing how to act. To support this, the CSCP has developed the Referral Guidance Toolkit, a practical resource designed to help you navigate the referral process with confidence. This toolkit should be your first point of call when you are considering making a referral to the MASH. It brings together essential information on thresholds of need, signs of harm, professional curiosity, and the key components of a high-quality referral. Whether you work in health, education, early years, youth services, the voluntary sector, faith communities, or any other organisation supporting children and families, this toolkit offers clear, accessible guidance tailored for Croydon’s multi-agency workforce. What the toolkit will help you do Understand and apply the London Child Protection Procedures Thresholds of Need within a Croydon context. Identify when a concern requires Early Help, targeted support, or statutory social care involvement. Know what information MASH needs to make safe, timely decisions. Strengthen your professional judgment and avoid over-reliance on copying threshold descriptors. Record concerns clearly, factually, and proportionately. Improve the quality and consistency of referrals across all agencies, large and small. Why this toolkit matters High-quality referrals directly impact the timeliness and effectiveness of safeguarding responses. Clear, well-evidenced information enables MASH to apply thresholds correctly, assess risk, and allocate the right support. For smaller organisations who may not hold detailed records, the toolkit provides practical tips on what to include, how to gather essential information, and how to articulate concerns in a way that supports safe decision-making. Download the Referral Guidance Toolkit (PPTX) Download the Referral Guidance Toolkit (PDF) (click on image to enlarge) What’s included The CSCP Referral Guidance Toolkit is provided as an easy-to-use resource available as a PowerPoint or PDF, designed for personal reference, staff training, and supervision discussions. It can be used flexibly within teams to build confidence, support reflective practice, and ensure consistent application of thresholds across all agencies. The toolkit contains: A clear explanation of thresholds and how they apply Guidance on recognising concerns and applying professional curiosity Step-by-step instructions for making a MASH referral What to do if you do not have complete information Examples of poor and high-quality referrals A simple decision-making flowchart Guidance for smaller organisations, youth settings, and community groups Key contacts, follow-up expectations, and good recording practice A glossary of services and teams Links to additional resources, including threshold guidance and professional curiosity training Who should use it This toolkit is designed for: Practitioners making referrals as part of their role New starters completing safeguarding induction Organisations wanting to strengthen internal safeguarding procedures Any professional working with or supporting children, young people, or families in Croydon

Guidance and tools for schools and education professionals to promote safeguarding, early intervention, and safe learning environments. Education Toolkit The Education Toolkit page is where you will find Croydon and Government/DfE guidance to support safeguarding in your school . You will also find referral templates and editable documents to help seek the relevant support and advice for families you work with, these can be accessed via the associated sections below. The content of this page is overseen by the Education Safeguarding Team . If you have any queries or cannot find what you are looking for, please email them directly. Please note this mailbox is not intended for submitting referrals . Guidance on how to refer to specific services can be found within the relevant referral forms. ✉️ MASHEducation@croydon.gov.uk Click on a button below to access the right guidance: সম্পর্কে অংশীদারিত্ব New Page Contact us Landing Page রিসোর্স Copy of 7-minute-briefings Local safeguarding practice reviews New Page New Page New Page New Page National Learning New Page New Page Services Projects New Page New Page New Page New Page Policies অংশীদারিত্ব External training providers Training levels News ফাইল শেয়ার Search Results Toolkits Parent/Carer Toolkit Youth support map MASH Education The Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) is a partnership of key agencies that work together to share information, assess risk, and make coordinated decisions to safeguard children and vulnerable adults at the earliest opportunity. Need Advice or to Make a Referral? You can contact the MASH Professionals Consultation Line on: 020 8255 2888, Monday to Friday, 9.00am – 5.00pm. For urgent concerns outside of these hours, please contact the Emergency Duty Team on 020 8726 6400. If you are making an urgent referral, please also call the number above to alert the social work team. If you're unable to get through, email MASHEducation@croydon.gov.uk and a team member will follow up. Additionally, the Threshold guidance will assist in referring to the correct service for support. Access the Pan-London Threshold Guidance here ↗️ Healthy Relationships Advisory Forum (HRAF) Please complete the criteria checklist and send it with a completed referral form to schoolsafeguardingconcerns@croydon.gov.uk HRAF Referral form The HRAF is an opportunity to discuss concerns around a child/young person’s behaviour which could have the potential to develop further if not disrupted. It could also be behaviour that is already showing abusive traits within a child / young person’s relationships. The behaviour can be physical, sexual, emotional, or coercive and can be directed towards a ‘partner’, friend, or family member. The forum will be made up of several professionals from non-statutory services who may be able to advise, signpost of offer direct support in extreme cases. Referral deadline Meeting date 06/05/2025 12/05/2025 04/06/2025 09/06/2025 07/07/2025 14/07/2025 22/09/2025 29/09/2025 03/11/2025 10/11/2025 01/12/2025 08/12/2025 Resources Healthy Relationship Advisory Forum Intro Healthy Relationship Advisory Forum Referral Leaflet Taking Action: Croydon's Response to Sexual Abuse in Schools Following the OFSTED review of Sexual Abuse in Schools and Colleges, June 2021, Croydon was proactive in exploring and responding to the issues within our schools. The following documents provides information and guidance about Croydon as well as the wider context of Child-on-Child abuse but also is a practical guide, providing links, resources, slides and more to support schools and colleges in understand and addressing the issues. Resources Review of sexual abuse in schools and colleges - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) HSB Model Risk Assessment Taking Action - Croydon's response to sexual abuse in schools handbook Staff sexual abuse in schools training slides Exclusions Please find the Croydon Suspensions and Exclusions documents below. When submitting a Permanent Exclusion Form, kindly ensure you also attach a copy of the exclusion letter that was issued to parents. Resources Permanent Exclusion Notification Form Suspension Notification Form v.2 Inclusive Practice Forums (formerly known as FAP) Documents and Forms Secondary Inclusive Practice (SIP) Documents SIP Forum Referral Form Croydon SIP Forum Guidance September 2023 Primary Inclusive Practice Documents Croydon Approach to Primary Exclusion Prevention PIP Forum Referral Form Please email all referrals forms to primaryinclusion@croydon.gov.uk by end of the working day deadline for discussion at the next Primary Inclusive Practice Forum. Croydon is proud to host monthly Inclusive Practice Forums for both primary and secondary schools (previously known as the Fair Access Panel or FAP). Secondary Inclusive Practice Forum Dates 2025-26 Fridays 8.30AM - 12.00PM Deadline for Submission of cases (by 5:00 PM) Pre-Sip Date Meeting Date Venue 13/11/2025 18/11/2025 21/11/2025 Oasis Arena 04/12/2025 09/12/2025 12/12/2025 Orchard Park 08/01/2026 13/01/2026 23/01/2026 tbc 29/01/2026 03/02/2026 13/02/2026 tbc 26/02/2026 03/03/2026 13/03/2026 tbc 30/04/2026 05/05/2026 15/05/2026 tbc 04/06/2026 09/06/2026 12/06/2026 tbc 25/06/2026 30/06/2026 10/07/2026 Harris Beulah Hill Primary Inclusive Practice Forum Dates 2025-26 Wednesdays: 9.00AM - 12.00PM Deadline for Submission of Cases 5pm Meeting Dates Venue 24/10/2025 05/11/2025 Bernard Weatherill House 26/11/2025 03/12/2025 Bernard Weatherill House 19/12/2025 07/01/2026 Bernard Weatherill House 28/01/2026 04/02/2026 Bernard Weatherill House 25/02/2026 04/03/2026 Bernard Weatherill House 29/04/2026 06/05/2026 Bernard Weatherill House 22/05/2026 03/06/2026 Bernard Weatherill House 24/06/2026 01/07/2026 Bernard Weatherill House School and College Safeguarding: Government and DfE Guidelines Resources Keeping Children Safe in Education Information Sharing CSCP Safeguarding Theme: Information Sharing Croydon Model - Safeguarding Policy Prevent duty guidance: for England and Wales (accessible) - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) FGM Mandatory Reporting - Procedural Information Searching Screening Confiscation Guidance When to call Police - Guidance for Schools and Colleges Section 11 Safeguarding Audit Reports The Croydon Safeguarding Children Partnership (CSCP) is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all children across the borough. The following reports, produced by the Croydon Education Safeguarding Team, provide a comprehensive overview of findings from the annual school safeguarding self-assessment audit. These reports highlight key trends, strengths, and areas for development identified across Croydon schools. By sharing these insights, we aim to support continuous improvement and promote best practice in safeguarding within education settings. Download/View: Safeguarding Audit Report 2024 Safeguarding Audit Report 2023 Online Safety Guidance Pack The Online Safety Local Authority Guidance supports schools and colleges to ensure student safety. It aligns with key statutory guidelines, including 'Working Together to Safeguard Children', 'Keeping Children Safe in Education', and the 'Online Safety Bill 2023'. This resource is crucial for meeting the welfare needs of students in the digital age Download/View: Croydon Online Safety Guidance Supporting LGBTQ+ Students in Schools and Colleges This guidance aims to support and educate against harmful views towards our LGBTQ+ students and their families, ensuring schools and colleges fulfil their duty of care as outlined in the Children’s Act 1989 . Download/View: Supporting LGBTQ+ Students in Schools and Colleges