Safeguarding
Relational Practice with Parents
Parents have the biggest influence on children’s outcomes. So, to safeguard children, we must find ways to work effectively with parents and carers.
Through Relational Practice, we offer recognition and respect to parents and honour their autonomy, expertise and experiences. It’s about working with and empowering them to focus on their strengths and outcomes, thereby enhancing the safety and wellbeing of their child/ren.
Quote from DfE
"Working collaboratively will mean parents and carers have the best chance of making changes, and practitioners can make fair and accurate decisions about how to support children and keep them safe."
Book Training
LGfL's SafeguardED team offer a 1 day face-to-face training course on developing relational practice and using it to have courageous conversations with parents about safeguarding concerns.
Courageous Conversations Planning Template
Download this template form to plan your conversations with parents about safeguarding concerns
Relational Practice Infographic
This poster summarises the values that underpin relational practice. Share with staff to help develop relational practice across your setting.
Example Guidance for having Conversations
Take a look at the guidance for staff created by Manor Junior School in Barking about relational practice and having conversations with parents, professionals and colleagues. This was created subsequent to attending LGfL's "The Parent Problem?" training. With thanks to Manor Junior School for sharing!
