Important Safeguarding Update: Community Incident and Guidance

Dear Parents and Carers,

We have received a report from our local Police School Liaison Officer advising that there have been two incidents of indecent exposure directed towards teenagers within our community over the past two weeks. Police visibility has been increased with more patrols around Park Street, Bondgate Green, Kirkgate and Spa Gardens. Local police investigations are ongoing.

While these incidents did not take place on school grounds, we feel it is important to share this information with families so that you can have appropriate conversations at home and remain vigilant.

Indecent exposure is when an individual deliberately exposes their private parts without consent. It is a criminal offence and is taken very seriously by the police.

Form tutors have spoken to students in an age-appropriate way about personal safety and reporting concerns. We would encourage you to reinforce the following key messages at home:

  • If something feels wrong or uncomfortable, trust that feeling.
    • Move to a safe, public place immediately.
    • Tell a trusted adult straight away.
    • Call 999 in an emergency.

    • If an incident happens online (for example, if your child receives an unsolicited sexual image), they should:
    • Not respond and not send anything back.
    • Take a screenshot of the message and username.
    • Block and report the account on the platform.
    • Tell a trusted adult immediately.

    If your child discloses an incident to you:
    • Stay calm and listen.
    • Reassure them that it is not their fault.
    • Avoid asking, blaming or investigative questions.
    • Report concerns to the police (999 in an emergency, 101 for non-emergency matters).
    • Inform the school so we can provide support.

    Additional support is available through:
    • CEOP (for online concerns involving children)
    • Childline – 0800 1111 (free and confidential support for young people)

    Please be assured that we are working closely with our Police School Liaison Officer and will continue to prioritise the safety and wellbeing of all students.

    If you have any concerns or would like to speak to a member of our safeguarding team, please contact the school office.

    Thank you for your continued support.

    Kind regards,

    Mrs H Keelan-Edwards

    Deputy Headteacher and DSL