Engaging Introduction to Safeguarding in Health and Social Care
Lesson Title: "Understanding the Importance of Safeguarding"
Objective:
To introduce the concept of safeguarding within the context of health and social care, highlighting its significance and relevance to practice.
Lesson Kick-Off: "The Safeguarding Web"
Activity Overview:
Begin the lesson with a creative and interactive activity called "The Safeguarding Web." This will not only capture students' attention but also encourage them to think critically about the interconnectedness of safeguarding issues.
Materials Needed:
- A large ball of string or yarn
- Post-it notes or small cards
- Pens or markers
- A whiteboard or flipchart
Instructions:
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Setting the Scene (5 minutes):
- Start the lesson by briefly explaining what safeguarding means. Ask students why they think safeguarding is vital in health and social care. Encourage them to share their thoughts and insights.
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Creating the Web (15 minutes):
- Ask students to brainstorm key elements of safeguarding (e.g., vulnerability, abuse, consent, rights, duty of care).
- As students mention an element, they will write it on a Post-it note and stick it to the whiteboard or flipchart.
- Once all elements are noted—ask for a volunteer to start the web by holding onto one end of the string/yarn. They’ll pass the string to a peer who must connect their own safeguarding element to the earlier one, explaining how it relates.
- Continue this until every student is involved, forming a physical web representing the complex and interconnected nature of safeguarding.
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Group Reflection (10 minutes):
- Once the web is complete, lead a group discussion. Ask questions such as:
- How does each safeguarding element connect to others?
- What role do you think you will play in maintaining the safeguarding web in your future roles?
- Emphasise the importance of recognising the interconnectedness of safeguarding issues.
Key Takeaway:
Conclude the introduction by reinforcing that safeguarding is not merely a set of policies but a collective responsibility that influences practice in health and social care. This analogy will serve as a foundation as they delve deeper into safeguarding concepts throughout the lesson.
By starting the lesson with an engaging activity like "The Safeguarding Web," students will establish a strong foundation for understanding the complexities of safeguarding, igniting their curiosity and commitment to protecting those they care for.