About CSEC (Child Safety Education Coalition)
In 2008, the DfE (formerly the Department for Children, Schools and Families – DCSF) awarded a grant to create the Child Safety Education Coalition (CSEC). Given that the DfE's remit was limited to England, CSEC had to be similarly constrained – much to the frustration of onlookers from other Home Nations. Unfortunately and in the context of the perilous state of the UK's public finances, the grant funding was ended on 31st December 2010.
CSEC members were able to:
- Contribute to policy development
- Attend national meetings
- Network with peer organisations
- Receive a regular e-bulletin to keep up to date with news and events
- Use the 'Member of CSEC' logo
- Have access to a team of specialist co-ordinators who helped with advice, resource and delivery method creation and review.
There was considerable interest and enthusiasm for the work of both LASER and CSEC in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Without the Government-imposed geographic restrictions, LASER Alliance will be free to work throughout the UK.
RoSPA is committed to the cause of practical safety education and remains prepared to continue to support these organisations through maintaining the website, sharing effective practice, continuing regular communication with members, supporting network meetings, training and LASER accreditation. Visit the archived website.
Independent Evaluation
A key component of the programme of work for CSEC was an independent evaluation by the University of Nottingham (PDF 2.07Mb).
The report provides a sound foundation for the work of LASER Alliance to build on with conclusions that highlight the main attractions for the members (from their feedback to a survey) including:
- Networking opportunities
- Meeting with other practitioners
- Gaining new ideas (for practical safety education)
- The opportunity to act as a “common voice”
The recommendations also include the challenge to build on and publicise the 10 Principles of Safety Education more widely.