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Knowledge Centre
The latest news and Thought Leadership articles


The Secret to a Safe Organisation
Why safeguarding isn’t a tick-box task and how a true safeguarding culture transforms trust, reputation and wellbeing. Practical steps for every organisation.

Chris East
1 day ago3 min read


Seven Red Flags DSLs Ignore Until It’s Too Late (and Why Safeguarding Supervision Matters)
Safeguarding doesn’t come with quiet seasons, and the pressure often shows long before anyone else sees it. From constant alertness to carrying responsibilities that were never yours, DSLs often miss the early red flags. This article names the signs that you’re holding too much alone, and why supervision is a safeguard for you as much as for the people you protect.

Leah East
Nov 114 min read


ADHD & Me: A Safeguarding Approach
Chris shares how living with ADHD has shaped his approach to safeguarding - from the boy who couldn’t sit still to a leader designing systems that work for everyone. His story explores how understanding neurodiversity can transform safeguarding culture, moving beyond compliance to create environments where every person is seen, supported, and safe.

Chris East
Oct 196 min read


The DSL Dilemma: What I Wish I’d Known
Being a DSL isn’t what it used to be. From sleepless nights to tough decisions that can change a child’s life, the role is full of challenges most people don’t talk about. In this blog, Chris East shares the hard truths he wishes he’d known, along with practical advice to help you lead safeguarding with confidence, clarity, and capacity.

Chris East
Sep 304 min read


Teen Anxiety Support in Action: Helping Teens Thrive with The Green Hub
Could a garden be the answer to teen anxiety?
Five years ago, in the middle of Covid, the Green Hub Project for Teens began in a small garden in Milford. Today, it supports hundreds of families, running nature-based programmes for teens and parents, and inspiring volunteers. Discover how a little garden is making a big difference.

Vanessa Lanham-Day
Sep 213 min read


The Truth About September: What Safeguarding Leads Won’t Tell You
September can hit safeguarding leads hard - overflowing inboxes, policies to refresh, and the first stories of the young people you support. We explore why this month feels so intense, the “summer effect” on children and young people, and practical ways to care for yourself while managing safeguarding responsibilities.

Leah East
Sep 143 min read


Staff-Student Relationships: Should They Ever Be Allowed?
Should staff–student relationships ever be allowed, or is a total ban the only way to keep students safe? New rules from the Office for Students make this a compliance issue, forcing universities and colleges to decide how they’ll manage the risks. From zero-tolerance bans to managed disclosure policies, we explore the pros, cons, and safeguarding realities of each approach - and what truly protects both students and staff.

Chris East
Aug 114 min read


The Truth About The New Online Safety Act: Will Children Really Be Protected?
No parent expects to lose a child to dangers hidden online. Families have campaigned for stronger tech safeguards after their tragic losses. With children spending hours daily online, the new UK Online Safety Act aims to protect them, but gaps remain. Safeguarding today means more than laws; it’s about ongoing education, open conversations, and building a culture of safety for all young people.

Leah East
Jul 135 min read


The Truth About Holiday Clubs That Parents Often Don’t Know
With school holidays approaching, many parents trust holiday clubs to keep their children safe and happy. But unlike schools, most holiday clubs aren’t required to have formal safeguarding policies or inspections. This gap can leave children vulnerable. It’s vital parents ask about safeguarding policies, staff training, and how concerns are handled. At Cornerstone Safeguarding, we help clubs build safe, trustworthy environments where children’s wellbeing comes first.

Leah East
Jul 63 min read


Banter, Flanter or Sexual Harassment?
Banter, flanter or something more serious? PJ Livett explores how casual comments and pop culture shape young people’s understanding of consent, boundaries and healthy relationships – and why education on this topic has never been more urgent.

PJ Livett
Jun 174 min read


The One Safeguarding Tool You Might Be Overlooking
Even small actions can have a big impact in safeguarding. A thoughtful Out of Office message isn’t just polite, it can offer reassurance, signpost urgent help, and show others they’re not alone. This blog explores how a simple OOO reply can quietly reinforce your safeguarding culture, even when you’re away.

Chris East
May 273 min read


Reigniting Your Passion for Safeguarding
Safeguarding can be emotionally demanding, and over time, it’s easy to lose sight of why you started. But with the right support, self-care, and reflective practice, you can reignite your passion and continue making a real difference. Let’s explore how to protect your wellbeing and rediscover the drive that brought you to this vital role.

Chris East
Apr 283 min read


A Game-Changer For DSLs: The Power of Prevention
With safeguarding referrals on the rise, DSLs are under more pressure than ever. Early intervention is key to staying ahead of concerns befo

Leah East
Apr 14 min read


Managing Neurodiversity in the workplace
Embracing neurodiversity fosters inclusion, boosts innovation, and supports wellbeing - small changes make a big impact!

Cornerstone Resources
Mar 287 min read


Could Your Safeguarding Strategy Be More Inclusive?
Is your safeguarding approach truly inclusive? Learn how to create a strategy that protects and supports everyone, no matter their needs

Chris East
Mar 43 min read


The Role Of Technology When Recruiting Individuals to Work With Children
Discover how tech is revolutionizing safeguarding recruitment with AI, faster background checks, and enhanced safety for those working with

Safeguard-Me
Feb 286 min read


Why a ‘One-Size-Fits-All’ Safeguarding Training Doesn’t Work!
Generic safeguarding training falls short. Get bespoke training tailored to your sector for confident, effective safeguarding.

Leah East
Feb 214 min read


How a Simple Safeguarding Health Check Can Save You Time... and Worry!
Safeguarding doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Book a health check today and build a safer, more confident organisation

Leah East
Jan 274 min read


From Reaction to Prevention: The Power of Being Data-Driven
Safeguarding isn’t just about reacting to incidents—it’s about preventing them. Proactive, data-driven protection starts here.

Patronus Safeguarding
Jan 224 min read


Your Safeguarding Lifeline: The Transformative Power of Supervision
Safeguarding supervision is designed to support, guide, and care for professionals working with vulnerable individuals

Chris East
Jan 173 min read


Breaking the Anxiety Barrier: Supporting Students at University
Anxiety looks different for everyone, and students may not always recognise it in themselves or feel comfortable sharing it.

Zoe Sims
Jan 74 min read


Disguised Compliance: The Hidden Danger in Safeguarding
Disguised compliance is a subtle yet potentially dangerous tactic...leaving vulnerable individuals even more exposed to harm

Chris East
Dec 18, 20243 min read


Safeguarding Made Simple: The Power of Awareness Campaigns
Awareness campaigns are key to fostering a positive safeguarding culture Cornerstone helps create inclusive strategies to prioritise safety.

Chris East
Dec 10, 20242 min read


Why Mental Health First Aid Training Matters: Supporting Well-Being in Higher Education
Mental health first aid training isn’t just a skill—it’s a commitment to creating a safer, more compassionate campus environment.

Zoe Sims
Nov 29, 20242 min read


4 Ways to Prevent Student Loneliness at University
Establishing a strong sense of community is vital for helping students feel connected. Here are several ways you can facilitate this:

Zoe Sims
Oct 16, 20242 min read
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