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SAFEGUARDING POLICY

Updated 5/5/2024

Introduction
Our safeguarding policy is based on legislation in England aimed at protecting children. The Managing Director or Designated Staff are responsible for safeguarding children at Footlights Theatre Schools.

Ethos
We strive to create a safe environment where children feel secure, valued, and heard. Our policies promote well-being and help children develop skills to stay safe.

Attendance & Exclusions
We record and follow up on absences, provide personalised plans for alternative provision, and consider safeguarding in all exclusion discussions.

Keeping Records
We maintain up-to-date records on children’s welfare, including living arrangements, schooling, and agency referrals.

Roles and Responsibilities
All staff adhere to our safeguarding policy, which is regularly reviewed and updated. Safe recruitment practices are followed, and a Designated Senior Member for Child Protection oversees safeguarding duties.

Safe Recruitment
Our recruitment adheres to DfE guidance, requiring written applications, face-to-face interviews, references, and enhanced DBS checks for staff who regularly interact with children.

Working with Other Agencies
We maintain effective links and cooperate with relevant agencies on child protection issues.

Confidentiality and Information Sharing
We follow confidentiality protocols, sharing safeguarding information responsibly while making clear that staff cannot promise to keep secrets from children.

Training
All staff and volunteers receive induction and ongoing training on safeguarding policies, signs of abuse, and managing disclosures, with regular updates on specific safeguarding issues.

Recording and Reporting Concerns
Staff report concerns to the Designated Person, record them using the safeguarding system, and take appropriate action.

Informing Parents/Carers
We maintain transparency with parents/carers, informing them of referrals unless it risks the child’s safety.

Domestic Abuse
We recognise the impact of domestic abuse on children and include this in staff training.

Forced Marriage
Forced marriage is treated as abuse. Parents/carers are not approached if forced marriage is suspected.

Child Protection Conferences
Staff attend conferences with updated information about the child’s well-being and family issues.

Allegations Against Staff
We follow Local Authority procedures for handling allegations against staff, informing the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO).

Complaints
Concerns from pupils, staff, or volunteers are taken seriously and addressed promptly.

Serious Case Review
We cooperate fully with serious case reviews and implement recommended changes.

Contact Details