At The Two Counties Trust (TTCT), safeguarding is at the heart of our Trust. That’s why we have developed our safeguarding campaign to ensure our students feel safe, supported and connected at school. Every term we focus on a specific safeguarding theme tailored to the needs of our 11,000 students.

This term’s focus is ‘Feeling Vulnerable? – Tell a Trusted Adult.’ This theme encourages students to reflect on how moments of loneliness, isolation or vulnerability can affect their wellbeing and to recognise the importance of speaking up and seeking help.

Feeling vulnerable is something that can affect anyone. It might be due to changes at home, friendship challenges, pressure at school or simply feeling like you don’t fit in. These experiences can leave our students feeling isolated, anxious or unsure where to turn. This term’s campaign reminds students that they are not alone, help is always available and telling a trusted adult is a powerful first step towards feeling better.

This term’s focus is particularly relevant as students navigate:

  • Understanding what it means to feel vulnerable: Encouraging students to explore what vulnerability can look like, from emotional stress and anxiety to feeling isolated or disconnected
  • Recognising signs of loneliness and isolation: Helping students identify when they or their peers may be feeling excluded or alone and understand the impact this can have on their wellbeing
  • Knowing when and how to ask for help: Empowering students to feel confident in seeking support from trusted adults whether that’s a staff or family member.
  • Being there for others: Encouraging students to look out for one another, listen without judgement and offer support to peers who may be struggling.
  • Reducing stigma around asking for help: Breaking down barriers that stop students from reaching out and promoting a culture where it’s ok to be honest about how you feel.

Throughout the term, assemblies, Tutor Time and Personal Social Health and Economic (PSHE) lessons will explore these topics in depth. Students will be provided with the knowledge and tools they need to recognise signs of vulnerability, look after their own wellbeing and help their peers do the same.

Safeguarding is a collective effort, and by encouraging students to talk to a trusted adult when they feel vulnerable or alone, we are continuing to build a safer, stronger and more compassionate Trust community.