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In todays episode of the P-Pod, Steve Macabee speaks with Alison Jenkinson and Tim McDonald from Avon and Somerset Police’s Lighthouse Safeguarding Unit.

They unpack the unit’s vital role in protecting children and vulnerable individuals, handling over 100,000 tasks annually and work to liaise across multiagency partners and respond to the complex needs of families.

Topics include domestic abuse, mental health, child exploitation, trauma-informed practice, and multi-agency collaboration and explores the challenges of information sharing, the importance of trauma-informed practice, and the evolving landscape of safeguarding in response to new legislation and societal needs.

A must-listen for anyone working in or curious about safeguarding.

Reflective Questions Based on this Episode:

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.

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.

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.

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.