Creating a safe, supportive environment for every apprentice.

Safeguarding at Skillnet is led by Lucy Whatmore, our Safeguarding and Prevent Lead, who joined us in November 2024. With over 20 years of specialist experience, Lucy brings deep knowledge, passion, and a proactive approach to keeping learners safe and supported.

She is backed by a dedicated team of Skilled Safeguarding Officers, all working together to maintain strong safeguarding standards across our organisation.

📞 Support Whenever You Need It

We know that concerns don’t always happen during office hours. That’s why we provide a 24-hour emergency safeguarding line, available to:

• Apprentices
• Staff
• Parents and carers
• Visitors
• Employers

This ensures that any safeguarding or well-being concern can be raised quickly, safely, and at any time.📱 0800 035 3211

🔒 Strong Policies, Clear Processes

We have a comprehensive Safeguarding and PREVENT policy that is regularly reviewed to ensure it stays up to date, effective, and in line with national best practice.

All Skillnet staff are trained to recognise concerns and understand the importance of taking immediate action. Anything relating to safeguarding or learner wellbeing is logged through our secure reporting system, RecordMy, ensuring:

• Concerns are recorded clearly
• Appropriate action is taken without delay
• Support is provided promptly

🏨 Safeguarding During Block Training

For apprentices staying in hotels during block training, we operate a robust, joined-up process. Hotel staff receive clear safeguarding briefings and know exactly how to report concerns directly to us. This ensures apprentices remain supported and safe both on-site and off-site.

🤝 Additional Support Beyond Skillnet

We understand that some apprentices may benefit from specialist help. That’s why we provide signposting to external organisations, such as:

• BEN – Here for the Automotive Industry
  Offering confidential wellbeing, financial, and practical support tailored to people working within the automotive sectors.

This means learners can access the right help from the right people whenever they need it.

Here for the automotive industry | Ben support for life

🌈 Inclusive Learning for All

Skillnet is proud to be a Disability Confident accredited provider. We’re committed to taking proactive steps to remove barriers, celebrate diversity, and create learning environments where every apprentice can thrive.

📚 Building Awareness, Resilience & Confidence

Our commitment to safeguarding extends into learning and personal development through:

• PSHE virtual learning modules
• PREVENT education
• British Values content
• “Hot topics” and enrichment themes

These resources help apprentices build resilience, develop critical thinking, and stay informed about the issues that matter-empowering them to keep themselves and others safe.