Local authorities have overarching responsibility for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children, young and vulnerable people in their area. This includes specific duties in relation to children (under the age of 18) in need and children suffering, or likely to suffer, significant harm, regardless of where they are found under sections 17 and 47 of the Children Act 2004 (as amended).
Whilst local authorities play a lead role, safeguarding children, young and vulnerable people and protecting them from harm is everyone’s responsibility. Everyone who encounters children, young and vulnerable people have a role to play.
Safeguarding is the action that is taken to promote the welfare of children, young and vulnerable people and protect them from harm. Safeguarding means: protecting children, young and vulnerable people from abuse and maltreatment. preventing harm, health or development.