Our school in now part of a new operation within in Luton that is jointly run by Bedfordshire Police and Luton Children’s Social Care, called Operation Encompass.
Operation Encompass has been designed to provide early reporting to schools of any domestic abuse incidents that occur in which a child/children are present. The information provided will be child’s name, date of birth and location of the incident. We know that children can be significantly affected through witnessing or being exposed to domestic abuse, this will allow us to better support our pupils and families.
What is Domestic abuse?
The definition of domestic violence and abuse;
Any incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive or threatening behaviour, violence or abuse between those aged 16 or over who are or have been intimate partners or family members regardless of gender or sexuality.
This can include, but is not limited to, the following types of abuse
- Psychological
- Physical
- Sexual
- Financial
- Emotional Controlling behaviour: a range of acts designed to make a person subordinate and/or dependant by isolating them from sources of support, exploiting their resources and capacities for personal gain, depriving them of the means needed for independence, resistance and escape and regulating their everyday behaviour.
- Coercive behaviour: an act or a pattern of acts of assault, threats, humiliation and intimidation or other abuse that is used to harm, punish, or frighten their victim.
This definition includes ‘honour’ based violence, female genital mutilation (FGM) and forced marriage, and is clear that victims are not confined to one gender or ethnic group.
A nominated member of staff known as a Single Point of Contact (SPOC) is identified to receive this information. At Bramingham Primary this is Cath Legg, one of our Family Workers and Designated Safeguarding Lead. The information is shared in confidence will ensure the right support is available should it been required by a child or family.
If you have any concerns, questions or feel that you may require support please contact Cath Legg on 617500 or clegg@bramingham.net.
Additional support
National Domestic Abuse Helpline is a free, confidential 24/7 service for anyone affected by domestic abuse, available at 0808 2000 247 . Homepage - National Domestic Abuse Helpline
Luton All Women’s Centre (01582 416783),
Women’s Aid in Luton (01582 391856)
Stepping Stones Luton (01582 341343)
Bedfordshire Victim Care Services (0800 028 2887)
Men’s Advice Line (0808 801 0327)
ManKind Initiative (0808 800 1170)
Victim Support's IDVA service provides free, confidential support and guidance for high risk victims of domestic abuse in Luton. They support any victims over the age of 16 years old that are at risk of significant harm, regardless of their sexuality, gender, disability, culture or background. The service accepts referrals from any source including self referrals.
Telephone 01582 488777 E-mail luton.idva@victimsupport.org.uk
