In this episode we hear from Alison Jenkinson and Tim McDonald from Avon and Somerset Police’s Lighthouse Safeguarding Unit.
Every year, this dedicated unit tackles over 100,000 critical tasks, standing at the forefront of safeguarding children and vulnerable individuals. Their work is nothing short of vital—liaising across multi-agency partners to address the complex and evolving needs of families.
This insightful discussion shines a light on pressing topics such as domestic abuse, mental health, child exploitation, and trauma-informed practice, while exploring the power of multi-agency collaboration. It doesn’t shy away from the challenges either—delving into the intricacies of information sharing, the importance of trauma-informed approaches, and how safeguarding adapts to new legislation and societal shifts.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or simply curious about the world of safeguarding, this is a must-listen. Gain a deeper understanding of the strategies, challenges, and innovations shaping the future of protection for those who need it most.
To access the transcript for this episode go to The P Pod (somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk) and click on the episode for details.
Reflective Questions for Practitioners:
1. How effectively are we identifying and responding to mental health concerns in children and families, especially when there is no clear referral pathway?
Consider gaps in current practice and opportunities for better collaboration with mental health services.
2. In what ways can we strengthen our trauma-informed approach when communicating with victims or reviewing safeguarding concerns?
Reflect on language, tone, and timing, especially in high-stress or sensitive situations.
3. How can we improve multi-agency information sharing to prevent repeat safeguarding incidents and ensure timely support for vulnerable individuals?
Think about current barriers and practical steps to enhance coordination across services.
Tune in and subscribe to The P-Pod hear how safeguarding is evolving, why it matters more than ever, and what practical steps can make a real difference – click on the image below:
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
Please note – due to the nature of this podcast, themes relating to the abuse and neglect of children are discussed with the content being designed for an adult audience for educational purposes, in order to protect children from harm.
