Brightcore Safeguarding Insight

Understanding the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Act 2026 and the Crime and Policing Act 2026 - What schools and colleges should consider before September

Why this matters

The end of the summer term provides an ideal opportunity for schools and colleges to reflect on recent legislative developments and consider whether any changes are needed before the start of the new academic year.

Whilst many education leaders will already be aware of these two Acts, this insight focuses on what they mean in practice for Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSLs), senior leaders and governors.

At a Glance

In this Safeguarding Insight you'll find:

• Key changes introduced by both Acts

• What schools shoudl consider

• Practical actions before September

The Children's Wellbeing and Schools Act 2026

The Act strengthens aspects of the safeguarding framework around multi-agency working, information sharing and oversight of children who are educated outside mainstream settings.

It also introduces a Single Unique Identifier (SUI) for children, compulsory Children Not in School registers and provisions relating to allergy safety.

The Crime and Policing Act 2026

The Act strengthens the national response to Child Criminal Exploitation (CCE), county lines, Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG), image-based abuse and anti-social behaviour.

Most schools will already have effective arrangements in place. However, the legislation provides a useful opportunity to review current safeguarding practice.

What schools and colleges should consider

• Refresh staff understanding of the indicators of Child Criminal Exploitation and ensure referral pathways remain clear.
  

• Review safeguarding and RSHE provision to ensure themes linked to Violence Against Women and Girls are appropriately reflected.
  

• Review filtering, monitoring and online incident response arrangements alongside existing statutory expectations.
  

• Consider how contextual safeguarding arrangements identify and respond to harm occurring beyond the school site.

  
  

To receive a free copy of our Summer Safeguarding Checklist, please email us at connect@brightcoreconsultancy.com

Brightcore's Reflection

Across our safeguarding reviews this year, one thing has been consistently evident: the schools best prepared for legislative change are those that review safeguarding proactively rather than waiting for statutory updates.

Taking time to reflect on policies, staff training and governance before September can help ensure the new academic year starts from a position of confidence.

A final thought

Legislation is most effective when it is translated into day-to-day practice.

By reviewing policies, strengthening safeguarding arrangements and planning ahead before September, schools and colleges can enter the new academic year with confidence that safeguarding remains at the heart of their provision.

If you're reviewing your safeguarding arrangements before September, updating policies or planning staff training for the autumn term, we'd be delighted to support you.

Whether you're looking for a safeguarding review, DSL training or practical advice, our team is here to help.