Affluent Neglect: A Safeguarding Overview for Schools (Free)

This one-page resource provides a clear, accessible overview of affluent neglect and what it can look like in school and college settings. It supports staff to recognise that neglect can occur in any family, including those with high socioeconomic status, and that material provision does not always equate to safety or wellbeing.

The summary draws on UK social work research and psychological studies to highlight how emotional and supervisory neglect can be masked by attainment, confidence or parental status, leading to under-identification of risk. It reinforces the importance of professional curiosity and consistent safeguarding thresholds.

This resource is suitable for use as a staff briefing, induction handout, governor reading or safeguarding refresher.

Includes:

• A clear definition of affluent neglect
• Common features and indicators in schools
• What staff should be looking for in pupils and families
• Key safeguarding practice messages aligned with Keeping Children Safe in Education
• A concise, one-page format suitable for printing or digital use