The South Tyneside Safeguarding Children Partnership (SCP) brings together key agencies, the Local Authority children and family social care, Police, and Health to ensure that children and young people in South Tyneside are protected from harm and abuse. We work under the statutory framework set out in Working Together to Safeguard Children 2023, which requires safeguarding partners to collaborate effectively to keep children safe.

Our work includes:

• Coordinating multi-agency safeguarding arrangements.
• Developing and publishing governance documents and policies.
• Monitoring and improving the effectiveness of safeguarding practice across South Tyneside.

Annual Report
Our Annual Report provides an overview of the Partnership’s work, achievements, and areas for improvement over the past year. It demonstrates accountability and transparency, showing how we have fulfilled our statutory duties and improved outcomes for children.

Multi-agency Safeguarding Arrangements (MASA)
This sets out how partner agencies work together, their roles, and responsibilities in safeguarding children.

STSCP Multi Agency Information Sharing Agreement
These agreements ensure that agencies share information lawfully and effectively to protect children.

Escalation and Challenge Protocol
This policy explains how professionals can raise concerns if they believe a child is not being safeguarded effectively. It promotes professional curiosity and constructive challenge to keep children safe.

This statutory guidance is the foundation of all safeguarding work in England.

• For Safeguarding Partners: It sets out the legal duties and expectations for Local Authorities, Police, and Health to work together.
• For the Public: It ensures that agencies are accountable and that children receive coordinated protection and support.
• For South Tyneside: It means we have clear arrangements in place to identify, assess, and respond to risks to children.

Working Together to Safeguard Children 2023