Safeguarding & Child Protection Policy

B Young Stars – Updated June 2025

1. Policy Statement and Purpose

This policy sets out the approach to safeguarding and child protection. We adhere to Working Together to Safeguard Children (2023) and Keeping Children Safe in Education (2023). Key aims: Promoting a strong safeguarding culture; Clarifying responsibilities; Ensuring compliance; Supporting best practice; Continuous improvement.

2. Safeguarding Definitions and Commitment

Safeguarding is the proactive process of protecting children from harm. Child protection is the response when a child is at risk. Commitment: Zero tolerance of abuse; Child-centred approach; Empowering children and families.

Types of Abuse

• Physical abuse: Hitting, shaking, or causing physical harm.
• Emotional abuse: Persistent maltreatment like belittling or isolating.
• Sexual abuse: Forcing or enticing a child into sexual activities.
• Neglect: Failure to meet basic physical and emotional needs.

3. Preventative Measures

• Mandatory training and induction for all staff.
• Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and Deputy DSL always available.
• Safeguarding risk assessments for all programmes.
• Age-appropriate materials for children to report concerns.

4. Safer Recruitment

• Clear job descriptions with safeguarding duties.
• Values-based interview questions.
• Mandatory Enhanced DBS checks (rechecked every 3 years).
• Two professional references required and verified.

5. Prevent Duty

Fulfilling statutory duty under the Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015. Actions: Local context risk assessment; Training to recognise warning signs; Referral to Local Authority Prevent team or Channel programme.

6. Photography and Media Consent

• Written consent obtained from parents/guardians.
• Specific use defined in consent forms.
• Safe storage on secure systems; no storage on personal devices.
• Staff/volunteers prohibited from using personal devices for photos.

7. Online Safety and Social Media

• Supervised and filtered internet access.
• Acceptable use policies signed by children and staff.
• Staff prohibited from connecting with service users on personal social accounts.
• Digital safeguarding training provided.

8. Allegations Against Staff or Volunteers

• Immediate reporting to the DSL.
• LADO referral within one working day for potential harm allegations.
• Internal investigation and potential suspension.
• Detailed records of all allegations securely stored.

9. Managing Disclosures and Reporting Procedures

Protocol: Listen without judgment; No leading questions; Record accurately using the child’s own language; Report immediately to the DSL; No promises of secrecy; Referral to children’s social care decided by DSL.

10. Appendix: Legal and Regulatory Framework

• Children Act 1989 & 2004
• Working Together to Safeguard Children (2023)
• Keeping Children Safe in Education (2023)
• The Prevent Duty Guidance (2023)
• Charity Commission Guidance on Safeguarding
• UK General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)