Shefford Lower School

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Drug & Alcohol Abuse 

At Shefford Lower School, the safety and wellbeing of every child is our highest priority. Substance misuse – including the misuse of alcohol, drugs, and other harmful substances – can have a serious impact on a child’s health, safety, and development. As part of our safeguarding responsibilities, we aim to educate, protect, and support pupils and families.

What Do We Mean by Substance Misuse?

Substance misuse refers to the harmful or inappropriate use of substances such as:

  • Alcohol

  • Illegal drugs (for example cannabis, cocaine, ecstasy)

  • Prescription medicines used incorrectly

  • Solvents or inhalants (such as aerosols or glues)

  • New psychoactive substances (sometimes called “legal highs”)

  • Vaping products or nicotine products used by children

Even at primary school age, children may be affected by substance misuse through family circumstances, exposure in the community, or curiosity about substances.

Why This Is a Safeguarding Concern

Substance misuse can place children at risk in several ways, including:

  • Unsafe environments at home or in the community

  • Neglect or reduced supervision

  • Physical or emotional harm

  • Poor physical and mental health

  • Exposure to criminal activity or exploitation

Children living with adults who misuse drugs or alcohol may need additional support and protection.

How Our School Supports Pupils

We take a proactive and preventative approach by:

  • Encouraging pupils to talk to trusted adults if they feel worried or unsafe

  • Providing a safe and supportive environment where children feel listened to

  • Working with families and external agencies when support is needed

  • Following safeguarding procedures where a child may be at risk

What Happens if We Have a Concern

If a member of staff becomes concerned that a child may be affected by substance misuse, they will:

  1. Record the concern.

  2. Report it to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).

  3. The DSL will assess the situation and decide on the appropriate support or safeguarding action.

This may include working with parents, early help services or other professionals, 

How Parents and Carers Can Help

Parents and carers play a key role in prevention. Helpful steps include:

  • Talking openly with children about staying safe and making healthy choices

  • Keeping medicines and alcohol stored safely out of children’s reach

  • Being aware of online influences and misinformation about substances

  • Seeking help early if you are worried about substance use in your family

Support and Advice

If you are worried about drug or alcohol misuse affecting a child or family member, support is available.

Helpful organisations include:

You can also contact the school’s Designated Safeguarding Lead for advice or support.

Reporting a Concern

If you are concerned about the safety or wellbeing of a child, please contact the school’s safeguarding team.

If a child is in immediate danger, contact 999.

 

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