AQW 49916/22-27

Mrs Michelle Guy
Alliance Party
Lagan Valley

Tabled Date: 29/06/2026
Answered On Date: 03/07/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Education for an update on strengthened safeguarding in education guidance, including when it is due to be published.

Answer:

Safeguarding the welfare of children remains a paramount priority. The department keeps its guidance under regular review and has completed a review of its safeguarding guidance for schools, and other education settings, to ensure it remains robust and reflects best practice.

This work is being complemented by the Education Authority’s Child Protection Support Service, which is developing an enhanced suite of safeguarding resources and practical tools to support schools in embedding best practice and maintaining a strong culture of safeguarding.

It is intended that updated guidance will be available in the new school year starting in September 2026.