Safeguarding Policy

1. Purpose and Scope

This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, and anyone working with children at Ablazers Performing Arts. It outlines our approach to:

• Protecting children from abuse and harm
• Ensuring safe recruitment practices
• Creating a culture of vigilance and reporting
• Supporting children's welfare and wellbeing
• Working with parents and external agencies

2. Designated Safeguarding Lead

Our Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) is responsible for:

• Receiving and responding to safeguarding concerns
• Liaising with local authorities and external agencies
• Ensuring staff training is up to date
• Maintaining safeguarding records securely
• Reviewing and updating safeguarding policies

To report a safeguarding concern:
Email: info@theablazers.com
Please mark emails "Safeguarding - Confidential"

3. Safer Recruitment

We implement robust recruitment procedures to ensure all staff working with children are safe to do so:

3.1 DBS Checks

• All staff and regular volunteers undergo Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks
• DBS checks are renewed every three years
• No one works unsupervised with children before their DBS check is complete

3.2 References and Verification

• We obtain at least two references for all staff
• Identity and qualifications are verified
• Employment history gaps are explored

3.3 Training

• All staff complete safeguarding training before working with children
• Training is refreshed annually
• Staff are trained to recognise signs of abuse and how to report concerns

4. Recognising Abuse

Child abuse can take many forms. Staff are trained to recognise the signs of:

4.1 Physical Abuse

Signs may include unexplained injuries, fear of physical contact, or wearing clothing to cover injuries.

4.2 Emotional Abuse

Signs may include withdrawn behaviour, low self-esteem, changes in behaviour, or self-harm.

4.3 Sexual Abuse

Signs may include inappropriate sexual behaviour or language, reluctance to change for activities, or unexplained physical symptoms.

4.4 Neglect

Signs may include poor hygiene, inadequate clothing, constant hunger, or untreated medical issues.

4.5 Online/Digital Abuse

We educate children about online safety and are vigilant about digital risks including cyberbullying, grooming, and inappropriate content.

5. Reporting Concerns

5.1 Staff Procedure

If a staff member has a safeguarding concern, they must:

1. Listen carefully to the child without leading questions
2. Not promise confidentiality (explain we may need to tell someone to help)
3. Record exactly what was said or observed as soon as possible
4. Report immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Lead
5. Not investigate or confront anyone themselves

5.2 Parent/Guardian Reporting

Parents and guardians who have concerns about a child's welfare (including their own child) should contact us immediately at info@theablazers.com or speak to any staff member.

5.3 Referrals

Where appropriate, concerns will be referred to local authority children's services or the police. We will always act in the best interests of the child.

6. Physical Contact

As a performing arts school, some physical contact may be necessary. Our guidelines:

• Physical contact is kept to a minimum and only when necessary
• Contact is always appropriate, justified, and in view of others
• Dance instruction may require demonstration and gentle guidance of positioning
• Children are taught about appropriate touch and consent
• Staff never use physical contact as a punishment

7. Photography and Online Safety

• Written consent is obtained before photographing or filming children
• Images are stored securely and only used for agreed purposes
• Children's full names are never published alongside images
• We educate children about online safety
• Social media use follows strict guidelines to protect children

8. One-to-One Situations

While we try to avoid one-to-one situations, when necessary:

• Another adult is informed
• Door remains visible or open where possible
• Parents are informed if ongoing one-to-one support is required
• All one-to-one sessions are logged

9. SEND and Additional Needs

Children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) may be more vulnerable. We ensure:

• Extra vigilance and support for vulnerable children
• Appropriate communication methods for children with additional needs
• All policies and practices are inclusive and accessible
• Our Kindle Hub programme provides specialist support

10. Whistleblowing

Staff and volunteers who have concerns about the conduct of any adult towards children should:

• Report concerns to the Designated Safeguarding Lead
• If the concern is about the DSL, contact the organisation leadership
• All reports will be taken seriously and investigated
• Whistleblowers are protected from victimisation

11. Record Keeping

• All safeguarding concerns are recorded and stored securely
• Records are kept confidential and only accessible to those who need them
• Records are retained until the child reaches 25 years old
• Transfer of records follows secure procedures

12. Policy Review

This policy is reviewed annually and updated as needed to reflect:

• Changes in legislation and guidance
• Lessons learned from safeguarding incidents
• Best practice developments
• Feedback from staff, parents, and children

13. Useful Contacts