Safeguarding Policy

We recognize the need to provide a safe and caring environment for children, young people and adults. We acknowledge that children, young people and adults can be the victims of physical, sexual and emotional abuse, and neglect. The purpose of this policy is to make sure that the actions of any adult in the context of the work carried out by us is transparent and to safeguard and promote the welfare of all children/young people. To promote best safeguarding practice during lessons, shows, and rehearsals, we commit to:

  • ensuring that EVERY teacher and helper (over 16 years old) has a valid Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Certificate, undertaken and checked by us;

  • ensuring that children are signed into the studio for normal class and in/out of the building for rehearsals/shows;

  • ensuring that parents SIGN that they know and understand that we do NOT take responsibility for children in the waiting area before, after, and between lessons; and

  • provide the appropriate number of qualified chaperones during shows;

  • ensuring immediate and appropriate response to concerns about a child or young person.

    RAISING CONCERN

If any parent or young person/child has any concerns about the conduct of any member of staff, this should be raised in the first instance with Anushi Sharma, the independent Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO). The DSO should then advise and continue with the standard procedure. If the DSO is not contactable, then the member of staff should be notified. In accordance to the government legislation information will be shared as appropriate with other associations, members, Council, the police and children’s social care / local authority designated officers.

  • The DSO should contact the appropriate agency or they may first ring the helpline of NSPCC, Thirtyone:eight or the Ann Craft Trust for advice. They should then contact social services in the area where the child lives.

  • The DSO may need to inform others depending on the circumstances and/or nature of the concern, e.g., Designated Officer or LADO (Local Authority Designated Officer) if the allegation concerns a staff member or volunteer working with someone under 18.

  • Suspicions must not be discussed with anyone other than those nominated above. A written record of the concerns should be made and kept in a secure place.

  • Whilst allegations or suspicions of abuse will normally be reported to the DSO, the absence of the DSO or Deputy should not delay referral to Social Services or the Police, or taking advice from the NSPCC, Thirtyone:eight or the Ann Craft Trust

  • Any information DSO may have in their possession will be shared in a strictly limited way on a need-to-know basis.

This Policy is written in accordance with The Children’s Act 2004 and “Working Together to Safeguard Children” guidance 2018.

Online Policy

When taking part in any online classes please ensure you adhere to the following points:

  • Have enough room to participate in the activity without there being any obvious risk of injury to themselves, to others, or risk of any damage to surrounding property.

  • Ensure that the flooring in the room is safe for the activity to be undertaken.

  • Ensure that where appropriate and especially in respect of activities for children, participants have a suitable parent/carer present, or as a minimum, have their consent to participate at home.

Some of the online classes may be recorded for teaching and learning purposes only. Any recordings will be safely stored and only shared with fellow participants if/when necessary.