Drama Hub  Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy

1. Policy Statement

Drama Hub is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and young people in our care.

We recognise our duty to protect them from harm, abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

We ensure that all staff, volunteers, and partners understand and follow this policy.

This policy also aims to:

– Protect children and young people who receive Drama Hub’s services from harm.       – Provide staff and volunteers, as well as children and young people and their families, with the overarching principles that guide our approach to child protection.

2. Scope

This policy applies to anyone working on behalf of Drama Hub, including paid staff, volunteers and students.

3. Legal Framework

This policy has been drawn up based on legislation, policy, and guidance that seeks to protect children in England.

A summary of key legislation is available at nspcc.org.uk/childprotection.

4. Designated Safeguarding Contacts

– Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): Matthew Edwards

– Director and Safeguarding Contact: Tessa Churchard

– Local Authority Contact: Kazeem Olayinka – Family Support Service, Buckinghamshire County Council – Email: kazeem.olayinka@buckinghamshire.gov.uk

5. Principles

– The welfare of the child is paramount.

– All children, regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, or sexual identity, have equal rights to protection.

– We will listen to and respect children.

– Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.

– Working in partnership with children, young people, their parents, carers and other agencies is essential.

– Some children are additionally vulnerable and may require extra safeguards.

6. Roles and Responsibilities

– DSL: Responsible for policy implementation, training, and dealing with concerns or referrals.

– Staff and Volunteers: Must understand safeguarding procedures, attend training, and report any concerns immediately.

– Safeguarding Lead: Oversees safeguarding compliance at governance level.

7. Code of Conduct

All staff and volunteers must:

– Treat children with respect at all times.

– Never use threatening or inappropriate language or behaviour.

– Avoid being alone with a child unless absolutely necessary and appropriate safeguards are in place.

– Report concerns immediately to the DSL.

8. Safer Recruitment

We ensure all staff and volunteers:

– Undergo interview and reference checks.

– Provide a current enhanced DBS check (or have one obtained by Drama Hub).

– Agree to follow this safeguarding policy and code of conduct.

9. Responding to Concerns

If a child discloses abuse or you suspect abuse:

– Stay calm, listen, and reassure the child.

– Do not promise confidentiality—explain that it will be shared with the DSL.

– Record disclosures in the child’s own words.

– Report to the DSL immediately.

Emergency Contacts:

– Bucks Council First Response Team: 01296 383962 (9am–5:30pm Mon–Thurs, 9am–5pm Fri)

– Emergency Duty Team: 0800 999 7677 (outside hours)

– Police: 999 (in emergencies)

10. Recording and Confidentiality

– Record concerns accurately, with dates and signatures.

– Store records securely and share only with relevant authorities.

– Handle personal data in line with data protection laws (see ico.org.uk).

11. Training

– All paid staff will complete basic safeguarding training annually.

– DSL undergoes specialist training at least every 2 years, with ongoing CPD.

12. Supporting Policies and Procedures

– Filming and Photography policy

– Code of conduct and guidance (staff/volunteers)

– Drama Hub safeguarding Incident Report Form.

13. Communication

– We create a safeguarding culture where all children and young people feel safe and supported.

14. Policy Review

This policy is reviewed annually or when significant changes occur.

Last reviewed: June 2025

Next review due: June 2026

Signed: Tessa Churchard (Director, Drama Hub)

NSPCC Helpline 0808 800 5000