What is safeguarding? The story of Boo and Cosmos
Webtoon designed and produced by Chaeyoon Park, Good Neighbours UK volunteer
Hello, I’m Fairy, your friend! I just came by to see how you are feeling today.
Are you having a bad day? I’m really sorry to hear that. But know you’re not alone. My little friend Boo is having a bad day too.
I can see Boo is worried about something and it makes him really sad. Also, Boo doesn’t look very well.
I know it’s not always easy to speak to someone and Boo isn’t sure how to do that either. I decided to help Boo.
We sat down and thought about it for a bit. Together, we came up with a few ideas.
Boo thought for a bit. A minute later, his face lit up. It was clear he had someone in mind, an adult he trusts. But Boo felt shy and wasn’t sure how to start the conversation. So we came up with another idea.
Then, I remembered Cosmos and how she reached to an adult she trusts.
It’s not always easy to open up to someone and tell them what’s wrong. But Cosmos’s mum was grateful that her daughter spoke up because now she can help Cosmos get the help she needs.
Yay! Boo spoke to his grandfather who listened very carefully to Boo’s safeguarding concerns. Here is what Boo’s grandad had to say about this.
Just remember – adults have a responsibility to protect you and ensure you are safe from emotional, mental or physical harm. That is what safeguarding is. When you are worried about your safety or something bothers you and it doesn’t feel right, speak to someone you trust about it.
This can be a parent, a carer or a mentor but it can also be a teacher, doctor, nurse, police officer or sport coach. Adults are there to listen to your safeguarding concerns and find a way to address them. So be brave and never hesitate to reach out to someone you trust.
There are also organisations who can help if you are worried about someone or something that is happening to you. Click here to find out more.
