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Safeguarding Policy

1. Policy Statement

The Study Shack is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and young people who attend our sessions. We believe that all children have the right to feel safe, valued, and protected from harm.

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.

 

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

  • All staff, tutors, contractors, and volunteers

  • Anyone working on behalf of or representing The Study Shack

  • All children and young people attending sessions, both in-person and online

 

3. Legal Framework

This policy is informed by relevant UK legislation and guidance, including:

  • Children Act 1989 & 2004

  • Working Together to Safeguard Children

  • Keeping Children Safe in Education (where applicable)

 

4. Definitions

Safeguarding refers to:

  • Protecting children from maltreatment

  • Preventing impairment of health or development

  • Ensuring children grow up in safe and effective care

 

5. Roles and Responsibilities

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

The Study Shack appoints a Designated Safeguarding Lead responsible for:

  • Receiving and responding to safeguarding concerns

  • Making referrals to relevant authorities where necessary

  • Maintaining safeguarding records

  • Ensuring staff understand safeguarding procedures

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DSL Contact Details:

Name: Sarah Trill

Email: sarahtrill@gmail.com

All staff and volunteers must know who the DSL is and how to contact them.

 

6. Safer Recruitment

The Study Shack is committed to safer recruitment practices, including:

  • Appropriate DBS checks where required

  • Verification of identity and right to work

  • Safeguarding awareness during onboarding

 

7. Training and Awareness

  • All staff and volunteers receive safeguarding training appropriate to their role

  • Safeguarding is discussed regularly to maintain awareness

  • Updates are provided when guidance or procedures change

 

8. Recognising and Responding to Concerns

Staff should be alert to signs of:

  • Physical abuse

  • Emotional abuse

  • Sexual abuse

  • Neglect

Any concern, disclosure, or allegation must be reported immediately to the DSL.

Concerns must not be investigated by staff members themselves.

 

9. Record Keeping

  • Safeguarding concerns are recorded factually and confidentially

  • Records are stored securely and accessed only by authorised individuals

  • Information is shared on a need-to-know basis

 

10. Review

This policy is reviewed annually or sooner if legislation or guidance changes.

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