7. Early Help Offer

At Aston Rowant School, we recognise the importance of identifying emerging safeguarding needs at the earliest possible stage to prevent concerns from escalating. In line with the recommendations of the Oxfordshire Safeguarding Children Partnership (OSCB), our staff are trained to notice early changes in a child’s behaviour, wellbeing or circumstances and to share these concerns promptly with the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).

The school works closely with the Locality and Community Support Service (LCSS), which is the first point of contact for professionals when early, non-immediate safeguarding concerns arise. The LCSS provides advice and guidance to universal services, including schools, helping us determine the most appropriate level of support for a child and their family. This partnership ensures that early help is initiated swiftly, enabling coordinated intervention before difficulties escalate. Through this proactive approach—supported by OSCB’s emphasis on Early Help and multi-agency collaboration—we maintain a strong, preventative safeguarding culture that places children’s wellbeing at the centre of decision-making.