Early Help
At Tibshelf Community School, the welfare of our students is our highest priority.
We understand that sometimes children and families face challenges that can affect learning and wellbeing. Here you will find information on Early Help and our responsibilities when it comes to Early Help Assessments.
Early Help at Tibshelf Community School
To support children and their wellbeing, we provide Level 2 Emerging Needs / Early Help provision as part of our robust pastoral care and safeguarding systems.
What is Early Help?
Early Help is the process of identifying and addressing the needs of children and their families as soon as concerns arise.
The aim is to provide timely, targeted support to prevent issues from escalating and to promote positive outcomes for children. This support can occur at any stage of a child’s life, including pre-birth.
Support may be revisited as needs change.
Our Responsibilities
Tibshelf Community School ensures all students are considered for Early Help when needed. We work closely with parents, carers, and external agencies such as:
- NHS Public Health School Nursing Team
- Compass Changing Lives (Mental Health Support Team)
- CAMHS
- GP’s
- Housing
- Police and other local services
Our approach includes:
- Identifying needs early, using Derbyshire Safeguarding Children Board (DSCB) thresholds to identify children's needs.
- Completing an Early Help Assessment (EHA) where appropriate.
- Providing targeted interventions based on evidence-based practices.
- Sharing information responsibly in line with safeguarding and confidentiality requirements
- Continuous staff training to ensure best practice.
What is an Early Help Assessment (EHA)?
An EHA is a tool that helps us understand a child’s situation and coordinate multi-agency support.
It looks at:
- The child’s wishes and feelings.
- Current and potential risks.
- Family strengths and previous interventions.
- Support needed from school and other agencies.
Please be advised that the assessment process can take up to 45 days, depending on the complexity of the situation.
Our Commitment
We follow statutory guidance and the Derby & Derbyshire Safeguarding Children Boards Threshold Document in all Early Help work.
Our goal is to provide a bespoke package of support that helps every child thrive academically and personally.
Contact us
If you would like more information or support, please contact our Pastoral Team.