Working Together to Safeguard Children (2023) remains the cornerstone of child protection guidance in England. It outlines, in clear terms, how organisations and professionals must collaborate to protect children and promote their welfare. Importantly, Working Together to Safeguard Children builds upon the legislative foundation laid by the Children Act 1989 and the Children Act 2004. However, it also reflects crucial developments in practice, key findings from safeguarding reviews, and new frameworks for both local and national partnerships.
Everyone Has a Role to Play
First and foremost, the guidance reaffirms that safeguarding is a shared duty. No single agency can protect children alone. Therefore, professionals across all services must identify concerns early, assess risks clearly, and respond swiftly. Through collective responsibility and effective communication, children can receive the help they need when they need it most.
Local Safeguarding Partners Take the Lead
A key update in the 2023 guidance is the emphasis on local safeguarding partners. Specifically, these include the local authority, the police, and Integrated Care Boards. Together, they must design and maintain a safeguarding system that is transparent, strategic, and outcomes-focused. Moreover, they must work alongside other vital agencies—such as schools, youth justice services, and the voluntary sector—to ensure coordinated protection efforts.
From Prevention to Protection
Equally important, the updated guidance stresses prevention. That means earlier help for families, coordinated support, and building resilience before issues escalate. Practitioners should share information efficiently and focus on the child’s best interests at every stage. This proactive approach not only helps families thrive but also reduces the need for statutory intervention.
Clarity and Professional Judgement
The guidance provides clearer expectations around thresholds for action. Practitioners are encouraged to use their judgement, supported by local documents, to decide whether early help or statutory involvement is appropriate. However, they must always consider the full context—risk, need, and the child’s voice—before making decisions.
Learning, Not Blaming
Furthermore, safeguarding practice reviews continue to play a critical role. These reviews focus on learning, not assigning blame. By examining what worked and what didn’t, professionals can improve future responses and protect more children effectively.
Information Sharing and Listening to Children
Understandably, some practitioners worry about data protection. However, the guidance makes it clear: when a child is at risk, appropriate information sharing is not only lawful—it is essential. The child’s safety must come first.
Finally, the updated guidance insists that children’s voices must be heard. Professionals must take time to observe, listen, and understand each child’s experiences and wishes. By doing so, they ensure that processes never overshadow the child’s perspective.
Leadership and Accountability
In conclusion, the 2023 guidance places renewed emphasis on leadership, system learning, and accountability. Safeguarding partners must continually assess how effective their arrangements are, ensure training supports good practice, and adapt based on evidence. When done well, safeguarding becomes not just a system but a shared commitment to improving children’s lives.
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