1. Introduction
Creative Performance Limited is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all children and young people participating in our activities. This policy outlines our approach to safeguarding and protecting children from harm.
2. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to:
• Ensure the safety and well-being of children involved in our programs.
• Provide staff, volunteers, and contractors with clear guidelines on how to safeguard children.
• Outline procedures for reporting and responding to concerns about child safety.
3. Scope
This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, contractors, and anyone working on behalf of Creative Performance Limited
4. Definitions
• Child/Young Person: Anyone under the age of 18.
• Staff: Employees, volunteers, contractors, and anyone working on behalf of Creative Performance Limited.
• Abuse: Forms of maltreatment including physical, emotional, sexual abuse, and neglect.
5. Policy Statements
• Creative Performance Limited is committed to the protection and safety of children and young people.
• We believe that every child has the right to be safe, protected, and supported.
• We will take all reasonable steps to ensure that children and young people are protected from harm.
6. Recruitment and Training
• Recruitment: All staff and volunteers working with children will undergo rigorous recruitment checks including DBS checks (Disclosure and Barring Service).
• Training: Staff and volunteers will receive regular training on child protection, safeguarding, and recognising signs of abuse.
7. Code of Conduct
All staff and volunteers must adhere to the following code of conduct:
• Treat all children and young people with respect.
• Always work in an open environment, avoiding private or unobserved situations.
• Maintain a safe and appropriate distance from children.
• Avoid physical contact unless necessary and appropriate.
• Report any concerns about a child’s welfare immediately.
8. Reporting Procedures
• Any concerns about a child’s welfare should be reported to the Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO).
• If the DSO is not available, concerns should be reported to the Deputy Safeguarding Officer.
• Concerns will be recorded in writing and kept confidential.
• The DSO will determine the appropriate course of action, which may include reporting to external agencies.
9. Responding to Allegations
• All allegations of abuse will be taken seriously and responded to promptly.
• Staff and volunteers must not investigate allegations themselves but must report them to the DSO.
• The DSO will liaise with appropriate authorities and follow their guidance on handling allegations.
10. Confidentiality
• All information regarding child protection concerns will be treated confidentially.
• Information will only be shared on a need-to-know basis with relevant authorities and individuals.
11. Monitoring and Review
• This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains relevant and effective.
• Feedback from staff, volunteers, and children will be considered in the review process.
12. Contact Information
• Designated Safeguarding Officer, Jennifer Mayers; creative.performance@yahoo.co.uk
• Deputy Safeguarding Officer: [Name], [Contact Information]
• External Agencies: [Relevant local child protection services contact information]
Approval and Review
This Child Protection Policy has been approved by the Board of Trustees of Creative Performance Limited and is effective from [Date]. It will be reviewed annually or as required by changes in legislation or organisational needs.
By adhering to this policy, Creative Performance Limited aims to create a safe and supportive environment for all children and young people engaged in our activities.