Parents Seek Reassurance After Two Serious Safeguarding Incidents Affect School Community In Romford.

Concerned parents have called for greater reassurance after two alleged serious safeguarding incidents involving children travelling to and from The Mawney Foundation were reported within the space of just a few days.

On 29 June, parents were informed that an unknown adult had allegedly been approaching children on their journeys to and from school.

Just two days later, on 1 July, families received a further communication advising that a different man had allegedly exposed himself in view of children and parents during the morning school run.

Parents have stressed that they appreciate the swift response of the Metropolitan Police, which has launched an investigation and issued a public appeal through the Havering Daily. They also recognise that both alleged incidents took place outside the school grounds and that the investigation of criminal offences is a matter for the police.

However, they say the two separate incidents, occurring so close together, have understandably caused anxiety among families and have prompted calls for greater reassurance and clearer communication about the safeguarding measures in place while police enquiries continue.

A spokesperson for the group of concerned parents said:

“Our intention is not to criticise the school or the police. We recognise that safeguarding children is a shared responsibility. However, two serious incidents involving different suspects in such a short period have understandably caused concern amongst families.

“We believe parents deserve to understand what measures are being taken to reassure children, support those who may have been affected, and reduce the risks whilst police enquiries continue. We are asking for clear communication about the school’s safeguarding response and how it is working with partner agencies.”

The parents say they are seeking:

• A clear safeguarding and reassurance plan from the school.
• Information about the support available for children who may have been affected by these incidents.
• Greater visibility of reassurance measures during school drop-off and collection times, where appropriate.
• Continued partnership working between the school, the Metropolitan Police and other safeguarding agencies.
• A meeting involving parents, the school’s leadership team and the local Safer Neighbourhood Team to provide reassurance and answer questions from families.

Parents have emphasised that they value the work already undertaken by the Metropolitan Police and hope all agencies will continue working together to protect children and reassure the wider school community.

Police enquiries remain ongoing into both incidents.

Anyone who witnessed either incident, or who has information that may assist the investigation, is urged to contact the Metropolitan Police using the appropriate reporting channels such as calling 101.

The Havering Daily has contacted The Mawney Foundation School and we are awaiting a response.

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