Safeguarding

1. Introduction

1.1. Bobbin Babes is committed to providing a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment for all children who participate in our baby swimming programs. We prioritize the protection and well-being of children, and this policy outlines our commitment to safeguarding.

2. Definitions

2.1. Child: Any person under the age of 18 years. 2.2. Child Abuse: Any form of physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, neglect, maltreatment, or harm to a child. 2.3. Child Protection: The prevention and response to child abuse to safeguard the child's rights and well-being. 2.4. Childline: The Childline helpline, a confidential service for children in need.

3. Responsibilities

3.1. Management: Bobbin Babes management is responsible for implementing this policy, ensuring that it complies with local regulations, and reviewing it regularly. 3.2. Staff: All staff, including swimming instructors and support staff, are responsible for implementing the policy and reporting any concerns. 3.3. Parents/Guardians: Parents/guardians must be aware of this policy and report any concerns regarding the welfare of children.

4. Child Protection Procedures

4.1. Reporting Concerns: Any member of staff who has concerns about a child's welfare must report them to the designated Child Protection Officer. 4.2. Child Protection Officer: Bobbin Babes designates a Child Protection Officer who is responsible for:

  • Receiving and recording reports of concerns.

  • Assessing the concerns and taking appropriate action.

  • Making referrals to external agencies, if necessary. 4.3. Confidentiality: All concerns and disclosures will be treated with the utmost confidentiality, except where the child's welfare requires disclosure to external agencies.

5. Childline

5.1. Bobbin Babes acknowledges the importance of Childline in providing support and guidance for children in need. If a child makes a disclosure or expresses concerns, we will inform the child's parent/guardian and offer to contact Childline to seek professional advice.

6. Prevention

6.1. We promote a safe and secure environment through:

  • Careful staff selection and background checks.

  • Clear policies and procedures related to child protection.

  • Regular training for staff on child protection issues.

  • Promoting a culture of openness where children feel comfortable discussing concerns.

7. Communication

7.1. Parents/guardians are encouraged to communicate any concerns they may have regarding their child's welfare or the policies and procedures of Bobbin Babes.

8. Review

8.1. This policy will be reviewed annually or as necessary to ensure its effectiveness and compliance with changing regulations.

9. Contact Information

9.1. For any concerns, questions, or to report a safeguarding issue, please contact:

Samantha Potter (owner) - 07985189018

This Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy is central to our commitment to providing a secure and nurturing environment for all children participating in our baby swimming programs. We are dedicated to the welfare and protection of every child entrusted to our care.

last reviewed: 05/11/2023