Relational Safeguarding Model
The Relational Safeguarding Model is an approach to working alongside families affected by child exploitation that has evolved over thirty years of practice. It is grounded in six principles that are at once moral commitments and evidence-based practice — practical guides to how services can genuinely support families and, in doing so, safeguard children.
Principle 1: Relationships
Relationships are the foundation of recovery.
Relational harm requires relational repair. The depth and quality of relationships matter. Supportive and trusting relationships are characterised by hope, reliability and authenticity.
Principle 2: Strength
Relational safeguarding is grounded in strengths-based and relationship-based approaches.
We view families as complete units with their own strengths, abilities and resources. We treats individuals, families and communities as whole and capable, rather than as a list of deficits, and it gives their capabilities, resources and protective actions equal weight to risk.
Principle 3: Trauma
We recognise the impact of trauma and shame on families and on ourselves.
Trauma and shame shape how families experience services, and how professionals interpret their responses. Supporting families requires practitioners to recognise trauma in others, but also to reflect on their own trauma and shame responses.
Principle 4: Child’s Welfare
Supporting parents is safeguarding children.
A child’s welfare is best promoted when the whole family is supported. Evidence shows when parents are supported, there is an increased likelihood of positive outcomes for their child.
Principle 5: Parents & Carers
Parents and carers are core safeguarding partners
Research on the “virtuous circle” demonstrates that when professionals believe in parental capacity, it creates conditions where parents can more effectively safeguard their child (Shuker, 2017).
Principle 6: Responsibility
Responsibility for the exploitation sits wholly with the perpetrators.
Vulnerability does not cause exploitation; perpetrators cause exploitation. They identify vulnerability and weaponize it. To focus on vulnerability rather than those who exploit it is to look down the wrong end of the telescope.
Embed the Relational Safeguarding Model into your practice
Look at our Training Courses, which share practical guidance and skills for embedding the Relational Safeguarding Model into your practice.
Download our Relational Safeguarding Model guide to learn more. Complete the form below to access a digital guide to our Relational Safeguarding Model.