Looked after children and previously looked after children

346. We recognise that the most common reason for children becoming looked after is as a result of abuse and/or neglect. All staff at our setting have the knowledge and skills to keep looked after children safe. The DSL will hold the details of each child’s social worker and the name of the virtual school head in the authority that looks after the child. They are responsible for ensuring all staff have the information they need in relation to a child’s looked after status and the child’s contact arrangements with birth parents of those with parental responsibility. They will also have information about the child’s care arrangements and the levels of authority delegated to the carer by the authority looking after him/her and for championing the educational attendance, attainment and progress of children in kinship care.

347. We recognise a previously looked after child potentially remains vulnerable. When dealing with looked after children and previously looked after children we will work with all agencies to take prompt action where necessary to safeguard these children.