Safeguarding Policy

1. Introduction and Policy Statement

Minims Musical Education Limited is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children who take part in our musical education programmes. We believe that every child has a right to be safe and supported in an environment that is caring, nurturing, and free from abuse. This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, trustees, and any other individuals working on behalf of Minims Musical Education Limited.

2. Aims and Scope

Aims

  • To provide a safe environment where children can learn and enjoy music.

  • To protect children from all forms of abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

  • To ensure that any safeguarding concerns are dealt with promptly, effectively, and in line with current legislation and guidance.

Scope

This policy applies to all settings, activities, and interactions (both physical and online) related to Minims Musical Education Limited.

3. Legal Framework and Guidance

Minims Musical Education adheres to all relevant UK legislation and guidance, including:

  • The Children Act 1989 and 2004

  • Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018)

  • Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE, latest edition)

  • The Data Protection Act 2018 and GDPR

  • Other relevant statutory guidance and local safeguarding arrangements

4. Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

Appointment

Joanna Hachani is the Designated Safeguarding Lead for Minims Musical Education.

Responsibilities

  • Oversee the implementation of this safeguarding policy.

  • Act as the first point of contact for any safeguarding concerns.

  • Liaise with external agencies (e.g. social services, the police) as required.

  • Maintain records of all safeguarding concerns and actions taken.

Contact Details

5. Roles and Responsibilities of All Staff

Safeguarding Duty

All staff, volunteers, and contractors have a duty to safeguard and promote the welfare of children.

Enhanced DBS Checks

All individuals working directly with children must have a current Enhanced DBS check.

Training

Mandatory safeguarding training will be provided upon induction and refreshed annually.

Responsibility

Staff are expected to familiarise themselves with this policy, attend training sessions, and report any concerns as outlined.

6. Code of Conduct

Professional Boundaries

  • Maintain appropriate physical and emotional boundaries with children.

  • Avoid one-to-one sessions in isolated settings unless absolutely necessary, and ensure they are observed or held in open spaces.

Behaviour

  • Treat all children with respect, dignity, and fairness.

  • Refrain from using inappropriate language or making derogatory remarks.

Communication:

  • Keep all interactions transparent and, where possible, in the presence of others.

  • Use professional language in all forms of communication, including online.

7. Reporting Procedures

Identifying Concerns

All staff should be vigilant and report any signs of abuse, neglect, or any other safeguarding concerns.

Internal Reporting

  • Report concerns immediately to the DSL.

  • Complete a safeguarding incident form and ensure a written record is kept.

External Reporting

If a child is at immediate risk, contact emergency services on 999. Otherwise, refer concerns to your local children’s social care services.

Confidentiality

Information about safeguarding concerns must be kept confidential and shared only with those who need to know for the purpose of protecting the child.

8. Confidentiality and Information Sharing

Data Protection

All personal information will be processed in accordance with the Data Protection Act 2018 and GDPR.

Sharing Information

  • Information should only be shared on a ‘need-to-know’ basis.

  • In cases where information must be shared with external agencies for a child’s safety, this will be done in line with legal requirements.

Record Keeping

Safeguarding records will be securely stored, kept confidential, and retained in accordance with statutory guidelines.

9. Safer Recruitment

Recruitment Process

  • All prospective staff and volunteers must undergo a thorough recruitment process, including obtaining at least two references and an Enhanced DBS check.

  • Interviews will include specific questions about safeguarding and child protection.

Induction

All new staff will receive an induction on safeguarding procedures, familiarising them with this policy.

10. Training and Development

Mandatory Training

All staff and volunteers must complete initial safeguarding training and participate in annual refresher courses.

Ongoing Development

Regular updates and additional training will be provided as needed to ensure that all team members remain current with best practice and legislative changes.

11. Responding to Allegations Against Staff

Procedure

Any allegations or concerns about the behaviour of staff or volunteers must be reported immediately to the DSL.

Investigation

The DSL will ensure that allegations are taken seriously and investigated promptly in line with our procedures and external guidance.

Support

Appropriate support will be provided to any child or member of staff involved in an allegation.

12. Online Safety

Digital Engagement

Minims Musical Education is committed to ensuring that any online activities (such as virtual sessions, website interactions, or social media engagement) are safe for children.

Guidelines

  • Staff must follow best practices for online safety, including the use of secure platforms and moderated communication channels.

  • Any concerns about online interactions must be reported immediately following the same procedures as face-to-face concerns.

13. Whistleblowing

Policy   

Staff and volunteers are encouraged to report any concerns about malpractice or breaches of this safeguarding policy without fear of reprisal.

Procedure

  • Reports should be made confidentially to the DSL or a designated safeguarding officer.

  • Whistleblower complaints will be taken seriously and investigated fully, with appropriate support provided to the whistleblower.

14. Monitoring and Review

Regular Reviews  

This policy will be reviewed annually (or more frequently if necessary) by the DSL and management to ensure it remains compliant with current legislation and best practice.

Feedback   

Staff, parents, and children (where appropriate) will be invited to provide feedback on safeguarding arrangements.

Amendments   

Any changes to legislation or guidance will be promptly incorporated into the policy.