Schools play a vital role in safeguarding children and young people, yet there has been little research into how schools identify and respond to child protection concerns, and their engagement with local authority children’s services.

This book highlights the findings of a major ESRC-funded study on the child protection role played by schools, their decision-making processes and involvement in inter-agency working. Crucial reading for academics, practitioners and managers in children’s social care and education, it evaluates the impact of recent policy developments, including the Academies and Free Schools programme, as well as the restructuring of local authority children’s services.

“This research-informed analysis of how schools work with other agencies to protect vulnerable children is essential reading for those engaged in this difficult and important task.” June Statham, Emerita Professor of Education and Family Support, UCL Institute of Education
“This is an informative book which includes both historical and current perspectives on safeguarding. It is up-to-date, research-informed and includes plenty of practical applications. Well worth a read.” Jonathan Glazzard, Edge Hill University
"This book is essential reading now for policy makers and practitioners as a new government administration takes responsibility for the education and well-being of children and young people in England." British Journal of Social Work

Mary Baginsky is Senior Research Fellow at the NIHR Health and Social Care Workforce Research Unit and NIHR SSCR Senior Fellow at the Policy Institute at King’s, King's College London.

Jenny Driscoll is Reader in Children's Rights at the School of Education, Communication and Society in the Faculty of Social Science and Public Policy at King’s College London.

Jill Manthorpe is Professor of Social Work and Director of the NIHR Policy Research Unit in the Health and Social Care Workforce at the Policy Institute at King’s, King's College London.

Carl Purcell is Research Associate in the NIHR Health and Social Care Workforce Research Unit at the Policy Institute at King’s, King's College London.

Ben Hickman is Research Director at Myriad Research and Visiting Research Fellow at the NIHR Health and Social Care Workforce Research Unit, King’s College London.