Safeguarding & Child Protection Policy

Policy Statement

This policy belongs to Rainbow Roots CIC. Rainbow Roots CIC is fully committed to safeguarding the welfare of all children and young people who attend our workshops. We believe that every child, regardless of age, ability, gender, ethnicity, religion, or background, has the right to feel safe, be protected from harm, and be supported to thrive in a secure environment.

Purpose of the Policy

This policy sets out how Rainbow Roots CIC will safeguard children and respond to concerns. It provides clear procedures for staff, volunteers, and partners to follow to ensure the safety and well-being of all children involved in our activities.

Scope

This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, session leaders, and directors involved in delivering or supporting Rainbow Roots CIC programmes involving children and young people.

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

The DSL is responsible for overseeing safeguarding practices, providing advice and support to staff, and making referrals to relevant authorities if needed.
DSL Name: Elaine Dearling
Contact: [email protected]

Deputy Safeguarding Lead: Louisa Stockley

Contact: [email protected]

Key Principles

- The welfare of the child is paramount.
- All children have the right to protection from abuse.
- All suspicions and allegations of abuse will be taken seriously and responded to appropriately.
- All staff and volunteers have a duty of care to report concerns.
- Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility.

-We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where all young people, including those with SEND and diverse identities, feel safe and respected.

Types of Abuse

Abuse may include, but is not limited to:
- Physical abuse
- Emotional abuse
- Sexual abuse
- Neglect
- Bullying and cyberbullying
- Exploitation (including sexual and criminal)

Staff and volunteers are supported to understand the definitions of abuse and recognise possible signs and indicators of harm.

Recruitment and Training

- All staff and volunteers working directly with children will undergo an enhanced DBS check.
- References will be obtained for all staff and volunteers.
- Safeguarding training will be provided and updated regularly.

Code of Conduct

All adults working with children must:
- Treat all children with respect and dignity.
- Avoid being alone with a child where possible.
- Never use physical punishment or inappropriate language.
- Report any safeguarding concerns promptly to the DSL.
- Maintain appropriate boundaries at all times.

Responding to Concerns

If a child discloses abuse or a staff member/volunteer has concerns about a child’s welfare:
- Stay calm and listen carefully.
- Reassure the child they’ve done the right thing by telling you.
- Do not promise confidentiality—explain that you will need to tell someone who can help.
- Report the concern immediately to the DSL.
- Record the concern accurately using the safeguarding report form.

If the DSL is unavailable, concerns should be reported to the Deputy Safeguarding Lead, who will take appropriate action.

Confidentiality

Information about safeguarding concerns will only be shared with those who need to know. All records will be kept securely and in line with data protection legislation.

Allegations Against Staff or Volunteers

Any allegation of abuse involving a staff member or volunteer will be taken seriously and reported to the appropriate local authority designated officer (LADO) and other safeguarding authorities as necessary.

Partnerships

We will work in partnership with children, parents, carers, and safeguarding agencies to promote a safe environment and effective safeguarding culture.

Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if there are significant changes in safeguarding legislation or organisational practices.

Local Safeguarding Contacts

Somerset Children’s Social Care: 0300 123 2224

NSPCC Helpline: 0808 800 5000

Emergency (if a child is in immediate danger): 999