CHYPS CHILD SAFEGUARDING POLICY

Cheshire Youth Pantomime Society recognises its duty of care under the Children and Young Persons Acts 1933 and 1963, the Child (Performances) Regulations 1968, the Children (Protection at Work) Regulations 1998, the Protection of Children Act 1999, the Criminal Justice and Court Services Act 2000 and the Children (Performance and Activities) (England) Regulations 2014.

 

The society recognises that abuse can take many forms, whether it be physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse or neglect. The society is committed to practice which protects children from harm. All members of the society accept and recognise their responsibilities to develop awareness of the issues which cause children harm.

 

The society believes that:

• the welfare of the child is paramount;

• all children, whatever their age, culture, disability, gender, language, racial origin, religious beliefs and/or sexual identity have the right to protection from abuse;

• all suspicions and allegations of abuse should be taken seriously and responded to swiftly and appropriately;

• all members and employees of the society should be clear on how to respond appropriately.

 

The society will ensure that:

• all children will be treated equally and with respect and dignity;

• the duty of care to children will always be put first;

• a balanced relationship based on mutual trust will be built which empowers the children to share in the decision-making process;

• enthusiastic and constructive feedback will be given rather than negative criticism;

• bullying will not be accepted or condoned;

• all adult members of the society provide a positive role model for dealing with other people;

• action will be taken to stop any inappropriate verbal or physical behaviour;

• it will keep up-to-date with health & safety legislation;

• it will keep informed of changes in legislation and policies for the protection of children;

• it will undertake relevant development and training;

• it will hold a register of every child involved with the society and will retain a contact name and number close at hand in case of emergencies.

 

The society has child safeguarding procedures which accompany this policy. This policy should also be read in conjunction with the society’s Equal Opportunities Policy and Health & Safety Policy.

 

The society has a dedicated Child Protection Officer, who is in charge of ensuring that the child safeguarding policy and procedures are adhered to. That person’s name is Esther Garbutt. The society also has a dedicated welfare officer: Neil Jeram-Croft. They can both be contacted via the dedicated email address: safeguarding.chyps@gmail.com.

This policy will be regularly monitored by CHYPS Committee and will be subject to annual review.

 

Date: 26th February 2024