Safeguarding Policy

Horizons Dance Studio

Introduction

Horizons Dance Studio is committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all children participating in our dance and acrobatic classes. This safeguarding policy sets out our commitment to promoting the welfare, safety, and protection of children, as well as the procedures we will follow to prevent and respond to any safeguarding concerns or incidents.

Legal Framework

This policy complies with the relevant legislation and guidance, including but not limited to:

Children Act 1989 and 2004

United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC)

The Social Services and Well-being (Wales) Act 2014

Safeguarding legislation and guidance in Wales

The Dance and Acrobatic Association’s Code of Conduct and Safeguarding Guidelines

Roles and Responsibilities

3.1 Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO)

Horizons Dance Studio will appoint a Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO) responsible for safeguarding children. The DSO will receive appropriate training and maintain up-to-date knowledge of safeguarding issues and legislation.

3.2 Staff and Volunteers

All staff members and volunteers working with children will undergo appropriate recruitment processes, including background checks, reference checks, and an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

Staff and volunteers will receive safeguarding training, including recognizing signs of abuse, responding to concerns, and understanding their reporting obligations.

Staff and volunteers will be familiar with this safeguarding policy and will actively promote a culture of safeguarding and child protection.

3.3 Parents/Guardians

Parents/guardians will be provided with a copy of this safeguarding policy and any related procedures.

Parents/guardians will be encouraged to share any concerns or incidents related to their child’s well-being promptly.

Safeguarding Procedures

4.1 Risk Assessment

A risk assessment will be conducted regularly to identify potential risks and hazards in the dance and acrobatic class environment. Measures will be implemented to mitigate these risks and ensure the safety of the children.

4.2 Health and Safety

Adequate health and safety procedures will be in place to protect children from potential accidents and injuries. These procedures will include appropriate supervision, safe dance equipment, and emergency response protocols.

4.3 Code of Conduct

A clear code of conduct will be established for all staff, volunteers, children, and parents/guardians involved in the dance and acrobatic classes. This code of conduct will outline expected behaviors and the consequences of any breaches.

4.4 Reporting Concerns

Any member of staff or volunteer who has concerns about the welfare or safety of a child must report them immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO).

All concerns will be taken seriously, recorded, and acted upon promptly and appropriately in line with local safeguarding procedures.

4.5 Responding to Disclosures

If a child discloses abuse or harm, staff and volunteers will follow the procedures outlined in the safeguarding policy, ensuring the child’s safety and well-being are prioritized.

Staff and volunteers will not investigate or interrogate the child but will offer support, reassurance, and an opportunity for the child to speak freely in an appropriate setting.

4.6 Confidentiality and Information Sharing

All safeguarding concerns, disclosures, and actions taken will be handled in a confidential manner, on a need-to-know basis, and in line with data protection legislation. Information will only be shared with relevant individuals and agencies where necessary to protect the child.

4.7 Record Keeping

Accurate and detailed records of safeguarding concerns, disclosures, and actions taken will be maintained securely. Records will be retained for the required period in accordance with legal and regulatory requirements.

Review and Monitoring

This safeguarding policy will be reviewed annually or as and when necessary, ensuring that it remains up to date with legislation and best practice. Any changes will be communicated to staff, volunteers, and parents/guardians.

Signed: A.Marchant

Printed: AIMEE MARCHANT    Position: STUDIO OWNER    Date: 14/7/2023