Natasha Elson

Experienced safeguarding professional with 8+ years in child protection, residential care, and education settings, skilled in managing teams, cases, and multi-agency collaborations. Currently a Safeguarding Deputy in a secondary school, delivering training and leading safeguarding strategy across staff, governors, and volunteers. Proficient in CRM systems, case management, and safeguarding record-keeping, with a strong track record of supporting children in care, families, and young people with SEN/EHCPs.

Passionate about protecting young people, empowering families, and embedding trauma-informed practices while maintaining statutory compliance.

Safeguarding Deputy Lead - The FitzWimarc School, Rayleigh (Essex) - Rayleigh, Essex

(2023-10)

• Lead safeguarding operations, managing cases and overseeing referrals in CRM/case management systems.
• Deliver safeguarding training to staff, governors, and volunteers, improving awareness and compliance.
• Engage directly with families and external agencies to support student wellbeing.
• Maintain accurate safeguarding records and contribute to audits, inspections, and strategic planning.
• Supervise and advise staff on safeguarding processes and risk mitigation.

Deputy Manager (Children's Residential Care) - Seaside House, Southend - Southend

(2022-04 - 2022-10)

• Led the safeguarding team, ensuring safety, wellbeing, and compliance for children in care.
• Oversaw case management, risk assessments, and incident investigations, documenting outcomes in CRM systems.
• Supervised staff, supported recruitment, and led team development initiatives.
• Collaborated with families, social workers, and external agencies to provide holistic support plans.
• Contributed to a successful Ofsted inspection, achieving a Good rating.

Assistant Deputy Safeguard/LSA at residential school/ Residential Worker - Kites Children Services, Westcliff - Westcliff

(2016-04 - 2022-04)

• Worked with boys who displayed sexually harmful behavior, including those with SEN/EHCPs, using trauma-informed approaches, as well as understanding and applying legal requirements or their court conditions.
• Worked directly with young people and families, supporting wellbeing and care planning.
• Liaised with foster carers, social workers, and external agencies to implement safeguarding strategies.
• Coordinated Duke of Edinburgh Programme, helping children in care engage with and complete the awards. Also delivered life skills and budgeting support, helping young people develop independence.
• Conducted risk assessments for activities, reports, and safeguarding documentation, maintaining accurate records in CRM systems.

Library Assistant - Southend Council - Southend

(2015 - 2016)

• Provided administrative support, managed book loans and assisted library users.
• Maintained accurate records and supported library events and programs.
• Handled customer enquiries and Library IT systems.

Admin Assistant - Elson Estate Agents

(2007 - 2009)

• Performed general office administration, handled client queries, and supported property management tasks.
• Maintained accurate databases and assisted with day-to-day office operations.
• Managed rent payments and receipts, maintaining accurate financial records.

BSc (Hons) - Counselling - University of Essex (2015)

Access to Social Work Diploma (2012)

GCSE - 5 GCSE grade C, including English - The Fitzwimarc School (2000 - 2005)