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      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can explain when I might need support in a public space, describe different sources of support, and practise ways to ask for help.

      Key learning points

      1. Friendships, social situations, and being away from home can sometimes feel uncomfortable or unsafe.
      2. There are safe adults and services we can go to when we need help or support.
      3. We can ask for support in different ways, including with words or actions.
      4. Trusting our instincts can help us recognise when something doesn’t feel right, especially in new environments.
      5. If we are harmed, it is never our fault – we can still get help and support.

      Keywords

      • Support - the actions taken to help someone who is in a difficult or dangerous situation, such as providing care and seeking medical attention

      • Uncomfortable - in this context, feeling uneasy, worried or unsafe because of a situation or someone’s behaviour

      Common misconception

      If someone feels uncomfortable but nothing bad has happened, they don't need to tell anyone.

      People don't need to wait until something serious happens to ask for help. If a situation feels wrong or they're unsure, it's always ok to speak to someone they trust — it can prevent problems before they get worse.

      Teacher tip

      When discussing first holidays without parents/carers, focus on practical strategies rather than risks alone. Use examples, like knowing where your accommodation is, keeping in touch with friends or family, and planning safe meeting points.

      Content guidance

      Depiction or discussion of peer pressure or bullying

      Supervision

      Adult supervision recommended

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Lesson video

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      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      What does it mean when someone says they feel 'uncomfortable' in a situation?

      they are physically cold
      Correct answer: they feel uneasy or worried about something
      they are sitting in an uncomfortable chair
      they are wearing clothes that are too hot

      Q2.
      Everyone has at work, which means they should be treated fairly and safely.

      Correct Answer: rights, right

      Q3.
      Match the situation with the best type of support.

      Correct Answer:feeling lost in a new city,tourist information or local help

      tourist information or local help

      Correct Answer:having a problem at your weekend job,HR department or manager

      HR department or manager

      Correct Answer:feeling scared at a friend's house,parent, carer or other trusted adult

      parent, carer or other trusted adult

      Q4.
      When you're away from home for the first time, which of these is the most important safety tip?

      don't talk to anyone new
      stay in your room the whole time
      Correct answer: know where you're staying
      Correct answer: keep in contact with trusted people
      avoid all public places

      Q5.
      Which statement about asking for help is correct?

      You should only ask for help when something serious has already happened.
      It's better to handle problems completely on your own.
      Asking for help shows you are weak.
      Correct answer: You can ask for help using words, actions or gestures.

      Q6.
      A respectful and safe workplace depends on everyone understanding their rights and ...

      Correct Answer: responsibilities

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      If a situation feels wrong or makes you feel uncomfortable, what should you do?

      wait and see what happens
      Correct answer: act early and look for support
      ignore it completely

      Q2.
      Which three key points should you include when asking for help?

      Correct answer: what happened, where you are, what you need
      your full life story, your location, your opinion
      the weather, your location, what you need

      Q3.
      Which of these are effective non-verbal ways to ask for help?

      Correct answer: using the recognised signal for help
      Correct answer: showing a written message to a staff member
      standing near someone and hoping they notice you
      Correct answer: moving towards a place with a Safe Space sign

      Q4.
      When abroad and you lose your passport, you should contact the nearest or consulate for help.

      Correct Answer: British embassy, embassy

      Q5.
      Match the term to the definition.

      Correct Answer:support,actions taken to help someone in a difficult or dangerous situation

      actions taken to help someone in a difficult or dangerous situation

      Correct Answer:uncomfortable,feeling uneasy, worried or unsafe

      feeling uneasy, worried or unsafe

      Correct Answer:safe space,help or protection given by someone you trust or a safe service

      help or protection given by someone you trust or a safe service

      Q6.
      Trusting our can help us recognise when something doesn’t feel right.

      Correct Answer: instincts, gut, instinct

      To help you plan your 10 RSHE (PSHE) lesson on: Support in our community, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...