<![CDATA[Brighton Hill Community School Blog Feed - BHCS Safeguarding Blog]]> https://www.brightonhill.org%2Fblog%2F%3Fpid%3D43%26amp%3Bnid%3D5 Juniper Education Content Management System (CMS) Version: 4.5 (junipereducation.org) Tue, 12 May 2026 08:31:35 GMT Tue, 12 May 2026 08:31:35 GMT <![CDATA[ Keeping Our Young People Safe in the Community ]]> https://www.brightonhill.org/blog/?pid=43&nid=5&storyid=91 Recently, a small number of parents and students have let us know about some concerning behaviour happening in the local area. A few older-than-school-age individuals, suggested to be in their twenties, have reportedly approached students out in the community. 

While these situations have been isolated, they could be serious. We want to make sure you feel informed, confident, and able support. Therefore, this post explains what to look out for and how young people can keep themselves safe without feeling worried or overwhelmed.

]]> Tue, 12 May 2026 08:31:35 GMT https://www.brightonhill.org/blog/?pid=43&nid=5&storyid=91 <![CDATA[ Keeping Children Safe on Live‑Streaming Platforms ]]> https://www.brightonhill.org/blog/?pid=43&nid=5&storyid=89 Live-streaming has become a huge part of how young people spend time online. This includes watching gamers on Twitch, chatting on Instagram Live, or browsing live shopping streams. However, with that comes risks that parents and carers need to be aware of.

Live-streaming simply means broadcasting video in real time. Because it’s live, there’s no delay, no editing, and no guaranteed filter on what your child might see or who might try to contact them.

Below are some top tips for BHCS parents/guardians:

]]> Thu, 30 Apr 2026 11:54:47 GMT https://www.brightonhill.org/blog/?pid=43&nid=5&storyid=89 <![CDATA[ A Parent/Carer Guide to the Early Help Process ]]> https://www.brightonhill.org/blog/?pid=43&nid=5&storyid=86 For us, safeguarding is about more than just responding to serious incidents when they occur – it is also about the continual work we do with families and other agencies to prevent concerns from escalating. One of the key ways we do this is through engagement with the Early Help process.

]]> Tue, 28 Apr 2026 21:04:11 GMT https://www.brightonhill.org/blog/?pid=43&nid=5&storyid=86 <![CDATA[ Addressing Intolerance: Why It Matters for Our Students ]]> https://www.brightonhill.org/blog/?pid=43&nid=5&storyid=83 Children and teenagers are growing up in a world where opinions, influences and interactions move quickly—both online and offline. Among the many things they encounter, intolerance can have a significant impact on their wellbeing and sense of safety. Whether it appears as casual comments, stereotypes, exclusion, or hateful content online, intolerance is more than unkindness; it can be a sign that a young person is struggling, influenced by harmful narratives, or at risk of escalating behaviours.

Addressing it early, calmly and consistently helps prevent small issues from turning into deeper concerns, and we need your support as parents to ensure that is happening.

]]> Mon, 2 Mar 2026 11:16:10 GMT https://www.brightonhill.org/blog/?pid=43&nid=5&storyid=83 <![CDATA[ Online Safety: Practical Tips for Parents Ahead of Safer Internet Day ]]> https://www.brightonhill.org/blog/?pid=43&nid=5&storyid=82 As Safer Internet Day approaches on 10 February, it’s a good moment for parents and carers to revisit how you support your child's online activity. The digital world continues to change rapidly, with new apps, features, and AI tools emerging long before they reach the headlines. While this can feel daunting, there are simple, realistic things that every family can do to help children stay safe online.

Within the below blog, there is details of a FREE online webinar for parents/guardians on how to support your child to be safe while online. See the flyer attached at the bottom for full details.

]]> Tue, 3 Feb 2026 11:22:43 GMT https://www.brightonhill.org/blog/?pid=43&nid=5&storyid=82 <![CDATA[ County Lines: What Every Parent Needs to Know ]]> https://www.brightonhill.org/blog/?pid=43&nid=5&storyid=81 Every area has contextual safeguarding concerns. For us in Hampshire, one ongoing concern that all parents should be aware of is county lines – a form of criminal exploitation that can affect children of any age or background.

Below is some key information that you need to be aware of:

]]> Tue, 13 Jan 2026 19:59:55 GMT https://www.brightonhill.org/blog/?pid=43&nid=5&storyid=81 <![CDATA[ Introducing Youth Options: A New Support for Young People in Our Community ]]> https://www.brightonhill.org/blog/?pid=43&nid=5&storyid=80 We are pleased to let parents and carers know about a new supportive provision operating across Basingstoke that some of our students may already have encountered: Youth Options’ Street Reach team. 

Youth Options is a long-established youth charity that supports young people across Hampshire, providing positive, relationship-based support for young people in the community. Thanks to new funding, they have recently expanded their work into the Basingstoke area, and we are keen to share information about what they offer.

]]> Thu, 11 Dec 2025 12:37:11 GMT https://www.brightonhill.org/blog/?pid=43&nid=5&storyid=80 <![CDATA[ Operation Sceptre: Information for Parents about Knife Crime ]]> https://www.brightonhill.org/blog/?pid=43&nid=5&storyid=75 Last week across Hampshire, there were several initiatives being run as part of Operation Sceptre, or the national “Week of Action” against knife crime. We were working closely with Hampshire Constabulary to raise awareness of the risks with our students and families, and encourage preventative support for young people in the community. 

Below is some of the key information about Operation Sceptre but, as ever, please contact the school directly if you have any questions or concerns. 

]]> Mon, 24 Nov 2025 13:02:00 GMT https://www.brightonhill.org/blog/?pid=43&nid=5&storyid=75 <![CDATA[ AI risks - information for parents/guardians ]]> https://www.brightonhill.org/blog/?pid=43&nid=5&storyid=70 The information below has been produced by an outside agency, call The Key, who Brighton Hill use to support their knowledge and understanding of key safeguarding trends and concerns. This resources (the original of which has been linked at the bottom of this post) has been specifically produced for parents/guardians, so we wanted to share it with you directly. 

It's important to note that the majority of AI tools have an age restriction of 13 years, with people aged 13-18 years old needing parental permission. Therefore, it's important for you to understand what the potential risks of using AI are for your child.

]]> Mon, 3 Nov 2025 11:58:56 GMT https://www.brightonhill.org/blog/?pid=43&nid=5&storyid=70 <![CDATA[ Safeguarding Support for Parents During the School Holidays ]]> https://www.brightonhill.org/blog/?pid=43&nid=5&storyid=69 As we approach another short break from school for our students, it's is important to remember how and where you can get support if you have any concerns about your child's safety/wellbeing, or the safety/wellbeing of any of our students. 

Therefore, below are some basic details about the different avenues of support you can explore if you do have a concern. 

]]> Fri, 24 Oct 2025 08:58:16 GMT https://www.brightonhill.org/blog/?pid=43&nid=5&storyid=69 <![CDATA[ Understanding VPNs: How Children May Be Accessing Adult Content Online ]]> https://www.brightonhill.org/blog/?pid=43&nid=5&storyid=68 As part of our ongoing commitment to safeguarding our students, we want to raise awareness of a growing concern: the use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) by students to bypass internet safety measures. While VPNs have legitimate purposes, they are increasingly being misused by young people to access inappropriate or harmful online content. Below is everything you need to know!

]]> Wed, 8 Oct 2025 16:45:24 GMT https://www.brightonhill.org/blog/?pid=43&nid=5&storyid=68 <![CDATA[ Helping Your Child Through Their Menstrual Cycle: A Parent’s Guide ]]> https://www.brightonhill.org/blog/?pid=43&nid=5&storyid=65 For many young people, starting and managing their period can feel overwhelming. As parents and carers, you play a vital role in supporting your child through these changes. At Brighton Hill, we are committed to working with you to make sure that no student’s education is disrupted by their menstrual cycle

]]> Tue, 30 Sep 2025 21:18:06 GMT https://www.brightonhill.org/blog/?pid=43&nid=5&storyid=65 <![CDATA[ E-Scooters and E-Bikes in the UK: What Parents Need to Know ]]> https://www.brightonhill.org/blog/?pid=43&nid=5&storyid=62 E-scooters and e-bikes have become a common sight on UK streets, but there are still missing pieces to puzzle in regards to how they are regulated – lots of young people don't understand the current laws and for parents, that can make it really difficult to know if you're keeping your child safe. It’s important for you to understand that these vehicles don’t sit in the same legal category as ordinary bikes - the rules around their use are quite strict—and in some cases, surprising

This guide breaks down the key points every parent should know.

]]> Wed, 17 Sep 2025 09:11:27 GMT https://www.brightonhill.org/blog/?pid=43&nid=5&storyid=62 <![CDATA[ Supporting Your Child in the Wake of Distressing News ]]> https://www.brightonhill.org/blog/?pid=43&nid=5&storyid=61 Many of you may have seen some distressing, upsetting and sometimes even confusing news recently relating to global affairs.  I know these events might not be happening in our local community so they might not feel particularly close to home. However, in today’s digital world, children are often exposed to these stories as they unfold, whether through the news, social media, or conversations with peers at school.

]]> Mon, 9 Mar 2026 13:58:03 GMT https://www.brightonhill.org/blog/?pid=43&nid=5&storyid=61 <![CDATA[ Mental Health and Self-Harm: How To Support Your Child ]]> https://www.brightonhill.org/blog/?pid=43&nid=5&storyid=60 Conversations about mental health and self-harm can be difficult and uncomfortable, but we know that silence can make struggles worse. In this post, there are some simple tips for supporting your child if they are struggling with their mental health and/or self harm. Together, as a school and as parents, by talking openly, listening without judgment, and seeking the correct help, we hope to build a environment where al BHC students feel safe and listened to.

]]> Tue, 9 Sep 2025 16:00:04 GMT https://www.brightonhill.org/blog/?pid=43&nid=5&storyid=60 <![CDATA[ Back to School: Helping Children Adjust After the Summer ]]> https://www.brightonhill.org/blog/?pid=43&nid=5&storyid=59 The start of a new school year is an exciting time for most students, with new teachers, lessons, and opportunities. But it can also bring nerves, changes in routine, and challenges for children as they adjust after a long summer break. As parents, you play a key role in helping your child ease into the transition with confidence, calm, and good habits.

]]> Mon, 8 Sep 2025 21:07:34 GMT https://www.brightonhill.org/blog/?pid=43&nid=5&storyid=59 <![CDATA[ Welcome, BHCS Parents & Guardians! ]]> https://www.brightonhill.org/blog/?pid=43&nid=5&storyid=58 Welcome to Brighton Hill's brand-new safeguarding blog, hoping to provide our whole community with regular information and guidance on how best to keep our students safe.

]]> Tue, 9 Sep 2025 16:01:04 GMT https://www.brightonhill.org/blog/?pid=43&nid=5&storyid=58