Download Every Child Matters at Bensham Manor

EVERY CHILD MATTERS AT BENSHAM MANOR
The ECM agenda has a very high profile at Bensham Manor and is central to everything we do. We
have a large number of Looked After Children and many vulnerable students with complex needs,
including mental health issues. Our families often require input from Social Services whether due
to having a child subject to a Child Protection plan or temporarily needing some extra support. At
all times we try to be proactive and put in support for our young people before a problem
becomes a crisis.
At present we have 14 LAC from 6 different London boroughs. PEP’s and LAC reviews are held
twice a year at the school. Close collaboration and good communication between agencies is
crucial to ensure these students have their needs adequately met.
The Deputy Head is the named Child Protection officer. All the staff have had Child Protection
training and are vigilant at reporting concerns. There are several children on the CP register and
staff are routinely informed of any updates regarding these students.
Mental Health issues are a growing concern at the school. A mental health nurse from CAMHS
holds clinics at the school on a fortnightly basis for those who have Tier 2 issues. Tier 3 and above
are seen at CAMHS in Croydon. Referrals to the clinic are made through the Deputy Head.
Since November 2008, the school has had a counsellor from the young people’s branch of Relate
working in school weekly. This has been a great success and the counsellor manages to see 4 or 5
students each session. Students refer themselves and it is totally confidential. The Connexions
Personal Advisor is also available to be seen on Wednesday mornings.
The Educational Psychologist visits approximately fortnightly and is a very strong supporter of the
school. He assesses and observes students, meets and consults parents and staff, attends Annual
Reviews and is always available for advice. Additionally, it is hoped that that the school will soon
have its own Social Worker to help cater for the growing complex needs of the students in the
school.
Our support through partnerships with external agencies is further strengthened by our own
extended services and community cohesion programmes, as well as by a strong emphasis on social
and daily living skills which is embedded throughout the curriculum.
Yvonne O’Brien,
Deputy Headteacher
January 2009