As a trusted early years provider, Daisy Fays Nurseries is committed to supporting families, carers, and professionals in understanding how child protection and safeguarding work in Cornwall. This guide offers clear, search‑friendly information on how to help keep children safe.
Recognise a Concern? Act Now
Report to Cornwall’s Multi‑Agency Referral Unit (MARU)
- Call 0300 123 1116 or email [email protected] to raise concerns about a child’s welfare during normal hours providers.cornwall.gov.ukhelp-for-early-years-providers.education.gov.ukCornwall Council+2Cornwall Council+2.
- The MARU brings together social care, health, education and police professionals to assess risk and determine next steps—including referral to the Early Help Hub or Children’s Social Care Cornwall Council+2Cornwall Council+2.
Out‑of‑Hours Help
- Emergencies or concerns outside office hours should be directed to 01208 251300. If a child is in immediate danger, always call 999 Cornwall Council.
Cornwall Safeguarding Children Partnership (OSCP)
The OSCP brings Cornwall Council, Devon & Cornwall Police, NHS and Isles of Scilly Council together under statutory safeguarding duties outlined in the Children Act 2004. This partnership ensures that child protection systems across the region operate consistently and effectively Cornwall Council.
Signs of Safety: A Strengths-Based Approach
Cornwall uses the Signs of Safety model to work collaboratively with families. This approach focuses on children’s voices, strengths, risks and professional obligations. It ensures families take part in planning and that the child’s perspective is central to safeguarding decisions Cornwall Council.
What Happens After You Report a Concern?
- Assessment: A social worker or MARU staff discusses the issues with parents/caregivers, with consent, to understand the needs and risks Cornwall Council+1.
- Child Protection Conference: Under Section 47 of the Children Act 1989, a conference may be held involving family and professionals to decide on a Child Protection Plan if a child is at serious risk Cornwall Council.
- LADO (Local Authority Designated Officer): Manages cases where concerns involve individuals who work with children, coordinating investigations and ensuring fair processes Cornwall Council.
Support Services for Children & Families
- Jigsaw Therapeutic Service: Offers counselling and therapeutic support where children have experienced alleged sexual abuse. Referrals are managed by Children & Families Service and aim to support children and families holistically Cornwall Council.
Professionals in Early Years: Your Role in Safeguarding
- All early years practitioners must complete basic safeguarding training and renew it every two years. This ensures everyone can recognise, report and record safeguarding concerns confidently Cornwall Councilproviders.cornwall.gov.uk.
- Settings must follow best practice around online and data safety including:
- Policies covering mobile phone, camera, wearable devices use
- Regular device checks and privacy settings enforced at the highest level
National Guidance & Broader Fit
- The updated “Working Together to Safeguard Children” (2024) guidance reinforces child-centred, whole-family approaches and stronger multi-agency collaboration across England, including Cornwall providers.cornwall.gov.uk.
Why Safeguarding Matters: Protecting the Future
Safeguarding is about more than crisis response; it’s about prevention, early help, and empowerment. By raising concerns early and working together, we ensure every child in Cornwall has the opportunity to grow up healthy, safe, and protected.
Quick Reference: Contact Info & When to Use Them
| Service | Contact | Use When… |
|---|---|---|
| Multi-Agency Referral Unit (MARU) | 0300 123 1116 / email | Concern during business hours |
| Out-of-Hours Emergency Social Work | 01208 251300 / 999 if urgent | Concern outside office hours or immediate danger |
| Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) | 01872 326536 / email | Concern involving someone working with children |
At Daisy Fays, safeguarding is a partnership—between families, carers, early years professionals, and statutory agencies. If you’re worried about a child’s wellbeing or safety, please trust your concerns and act without delay. Together, we can make Cornwall a safer place for every child.