Didjeridu

A child is defined as a person under the age of 18 (The Children Act 1989).

I believe that it is totally unacceptable for a child or young person to experience abuse of any kind and recognize my responsibility to safeguard the welfare of all children and young people by a commitment to practice which protects them.

I accept that:

• The welfare of the child/young person is paramount.
• All children, regardless of age, disability, gender, racial heritage, religious belief, sexual orientation or identity, have the right to equal protection from all types of harm or abuse.
• I will work in partnership with children, young people, their parents, carers and their agencies to promote young people’s welfare.

The purpose of this policy:

• To provide protection for the children and young people with whom I have contact, including the children of adult participants in my work.
• To be aware of procedures I should adopt in the event that I suspect a child or young person may be experiencing, or be at risk of harm.
• To protect myself against allegations of misconduct.

Code Of Conduct

• I will undertake ongoing training in child protection as necessary.
• I will ensure that all necessary checks (e.g. enhanced CRB disclosure) are made and kept up to date.
• I will be committed to reviewing my policy and code of conduct annually.
• I will not allow myself to be left alone in a room with a child, where this is not possible, I will ensure that there is another adult present.
• I will not make unnecessary physical contact with a child. Where physical contact is inescapable (e.g. when a child is in danger) I will be aware of the limits within which such contact should take place and of the possibility for misinterpretation of such contact.
• I will treat all children equally, with respect and dignity and protect them from discrimination on any grounds.
• I will design activities to include all children and to promote positive attitudes towards differences.
• I will only attend arrangements and activities with a child/children with the express consent of their legal parent or guardian or the governing body (eg. a school).
• I will not contradict an instruction given by a senior member of staff.
• I will maintain a safe and appropriate distance from children.
• I will conduct myself in a manner that sets a good example to the children.
• I will give enthusiastic and constructive feedback rather than negative criticism.
• I will not use physical force against a child, unless it constitutes reasonable restraint to protect him or her, another person, or to protect property. If it is necessary to do this I will use the minimum amount of force for the shortest amount of time. I will remain calm and get the attention and support of another adult or member of staff then I will record the incident in writing.
• I will not arrange to meet with a child without the express permission of the relevantlegal parent/guardian or a senior member of staff.
• I will keep a written record of any injury or incident that occurs in my presence with a witness statement (where possible).
• I will refer any problems to the lead member of staff or the relevant legal parent.
• I will question and report any unknown adult who enters the premises and/or who attempts to engage with the children.
• I will not give anything to a child to keep without the express permission of the relevant legal parent/guardian, or senior member of staff.
• I will not give food drink or medication of any kind to a child without the express permission of the relevant legal parent/guardian or senior member of staff.
• I will not ask a child to do a favour, run an errand or perform any task whatsoever without the express permission of the relevant legal parent/guardian, or senior member of staff.
• I will not engage in rough or physical games.
• I will challenge childrens’ inappropriate use of language and/or behaviour.
• I will act on any allegations made by a child.
• I will not contact a child by telephone, e-mail, internet based social networking, post or any other means without the express permission of the relevant legal parent/guardian.
• I will not transport a child in a vehicle without the express permission of the relevant legal parent/guardian.