Operation Encompass: Supporting Children Through Police and School Partnership

St Peter’s Catholic Primary School is proud to be part of Operation Encompass, a national initiative that ensures schools receive timely information from police about domestic abuse incidents involving children. This enables us to offer immediate and appropriate support to pupils who may have witnessed or been involved in such incidents.

What is Operation Encompass?

Operation Encompass is a confidential early information-sharing partnership between police and schools. It ensures that the school’s Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) is informed before the start of the next school day if a child has been involved in or exposed to a domestic abuse incident attended by police.

This allows us to:

• Recognise and respond to the child’s needs quickly.
• Offer emotional support and practical help.
• Safeguard the child in a sensitive and informed way.

Why is it important?

Children who experience domestic abuse can be deeply affected emotionally, socially, and academically. Operation Encompass helps schools provide early intervention, which is key to helping children feel safe, supported, and ready to learn.

Legal and National Recognition

In May 2024, Operation Encompass was placed into law through the Victims and Prisoners Act, making it a statutory requirement for all police forces in England and Wales to share relevant information with schools. 

Training and Safeguarding

All staff involved in Operation Encompass receive CPD-accredited training to ensure they understand how to support children impacted by domestic abuse. Participation in the scheme is embedded in our safeguarding policies and practices.

Confidentiality

Information shared through Operation Encompass is treated with the highest level of confidentiality and in full compliance with GDPR. It is only shared with the DSL and used to support the child’s wellbeing.