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In this episode of the P-Pod, we discusses the evolving landscape of online safety with Matt Mustafic, an expert advisor in computing and online safety and explore the challenges schools face in educating children about online risks, the importance of engaging parents, and the need for a proactive approach to online bullying.

The conversation highlights the significance of digital literacy and the role of AI in education, emphasising the necessity for schools to adapt to the changing technological environment while ensuring the safety and well-being of students.

You can find out more about the work of ELiM and get in touch with Matt HERE

To find out more about online safety, including tools and resources to support to keep children safe online check out the SSCP Forum Week Videos

Reflective Questions for Practitioners Based on this Episode:

1. How can we effectively balance the benefits and risks of online technology in our practices?
   • Consider the ways in which technology can enhance learning and engagement, while also addressing potential safety concerns.
2. What strategies can we implement to better engage parents in supporting online safety at home?
   • Reflect on the challenges of involving parents and explore methods to foster a collaborative approach to online safety.
3. In what ways can we empower children and young people to make positive choices online, similar to how we teach them about real-life decision-making?
   • Discuss the parallels between online and offline behaviors and how to instill a sense of responsibility.
4. How can we stay informed and adaptable to the rapidly changing landscape of technology and online safety?
   • Share ideas on continuous learning and professional development to keep up with technological advancements and evolving safety guidelines.

Further details of topics discussed can be found on the SSCP Website: somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk

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

To access the transcript for this episode go to The P Pod (somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk) and click on the episode for details.

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In this episode of the P-Pod, Steve Macabee speaks with Lin Sands from the National Working Group (NWG) about the organisation's mission to combat child exploitation and modern slavery. They discuss the importance of collaboration with various partner organisations, the role of local networks in safeguarding, and the challenges faced by professionals in the field.

Lin emphasizes the significance of language in safeguarding discussions, the impact of technology on exploitation, and the need for continuous training for practitioners.

The conversation also highlights the new digital toolkit designed to help disrupt exploitation and the common myths surrounding child exploitation and the importance of a multi-agency approach and the need for empowerment and support for all professionals involved in safeguarding children.

Check out the NWG's website HERE

Access the updated digital disruption toolkit HERE

Join the webinar launch of the toolkit on the 15th July 2025 HERE

Suggested reflective questions based on this episode:

1. How do we ensure that our safeguarding policies are effectively communicated and understood by all staff members?
   • Reflect on the current methods used to disseminate safeguarding policies and whether they are accessible and clear to everyone in the organization.
2. What strategies can we implement to better identify and support individuals who may be at risk?
   • Discuss the tools and techniques currently in place for identifying at-risk individuals and explore new approaches that could enhance early detection and intervention.
3. How do we balance the need for confidentiality with the necessity of sharing information to protect those at risk?
   • Consider the challenges of maintaining confidentiality while ensuring that critical information is shared appropriately to safeguard individuals.
4. What are some of the common terms or use of language that we use in our practice and how could these impact on identifying and responding to risks of exploitation?

• Consider the use of acronyms or terms used in conversation or case recording. Also consider what are some of the terms you hear from other agencies and how you may consider challenging these is needed.

Further details of topics discussed can be found on the SSCP Website: somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk

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

To access the transcript for this episode go to The P Pod (somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk) and click on the episode for details.

Get in touch with us at The P Pod

This week we bring you an extended special episode, following on from our June 2025 forum week of webinars that took place, focusing on the subject of Children, Violence and Vulnerabilities.

Throughout the week we have amazing guest presenters join us, including the Youth Endowment Fund, the NWG, Beyond Equality and UNICEF to name just a few.

Join us for this special episode bringing you highlights from the week.

To watch the full recordings of each webinar, as well as access the presentations and links to further information and resources go to the SSCP's Forum Week webpage June 2025 - Somerset Safeguarding Children Partnership

You can also find recordings from previous forum's there, or go to our YouTube Channel to view all forum week webinars.

Further details of topics discussed can be found on the SSCP Website: somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk

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

To access the transcript for this episode go to The P Pod (somersetsafeguardingchildren.org.uk) and click on the episode for details.