Safeguarding & child protection policy
Safeguarding & Child Protection Policy
Stormfront Studio
Safeguarding Officer: Eve Morgan
Policy Review Date: 11/05/26
Next Review Due: 11/06/27
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1. Policy Statement
Stormfront Studio is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children, young people and vulnerable adults participating in our activities.
We believe that every participant has the right to:
* Feel safe and protected
* Be treated with dignity and respect
* Enjoy cheerleading, dance and tumbling in a positive environment
* Be listened to and supported
* Participate free from fear, abuse, bullying or discrimination
Stormfront Studio recognises that safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.
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2. Purpose of This Policy
This policy outlines how Stormfront Studio aims to:
* Protect children and vulnerable individuals
* Promote welfare and wellbeing
* Provide clear safeguarding procedures
* Respond appropriately to concerns or disclosures
* Ensure all staff and volunteers understand their responsibilities
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3. Designated Safeguarding Officer
Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO)
Eve Morgan - Based at main office in studio
The Safeguarding Officer is responsible for:
* Managing safeguarding concerns
* Recording and reporting incidents
* Liaising with external agencies where necessary
* Ensuring safeguarding procedures are followed
* Supporting staff, athletes and families
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4. Scope of This Policy
This policy applies to:
* Coaches
* Volunteers
* Staff members
* Athletes and participants
* Parents and guardians
* Visitors attending Stormfront Studio activities
This includes:
* Classes
* Competitions
* Camps
* Events
* Travel
* Social media and online communication
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5. Types of Abuse
Stormfront Studio recognises the following forms of abuse:
Physical Abuse
Deliberately causing physical harm.
Emotional Abuse
Persistent emotional mistreatment affecting emotional development and wellbeing.
Sexual Abuse
Forcing or encouraging a child or vulnerable person to participate in sexual activities.
Neglect
Failing to meet a child’s basic physical or emotional needs.
Bullying & Cyberbullying
Repeated behaviour intended to hurt, intimidate or humiliate another person.
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6. Signs of Possible Abuse
Possible indicators may include:
* Sudden behavioural changes
* Withdrawal or anxiety
* Fear of particular individuals
* Unexplained injuries
* Inappropriate sexual behaviour or language
* Poor hygiene or neglect
* Self-harm or low self-esteem
Staff should never ignore safeguarding concerns.
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7. Staff & Volunteer Responsibilities
All staff and volunteers must:
* Prioritise the welfare of participants
* Maintain professional boundaries
* Treat all individuals equally and respectfully
* Report concerns immediately
* Avoid inappropriate physical contact
* Never engage in abusive or harmful behaviour
* Follow safe supervision practices
Staff should never:
* Be alone with a child in private areas without good reason
* Use degrading language
* Communicate inappropriately via social media
* Share personal contact information with athletes
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8. Safe Recruitment
Stormfront Studio aims to recruit safely by:
* Conducting interviews where appropriate
* Requesting references
* Completing PVG/DBS checks where required
* Providing safeguarding guidance and training
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9. Reporting Safeguarding Concerns
Any safeguarding concern should be reported immediately to:
Eve Morgan – Safeguarding Officer
Information should include:
* Date and time
* Details of concern
* What was observed or disclosed
* Names of individuals involved
* Any action taken
All concerns will be taken seriously and handled confidentially.
If a child is in immediate danger, emergency services should be contacted immediately.
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10. Responding to a Disclosure
If a participant discloses abuse:
* Stay calm
* Listen carefully
* Do not promise confidentiality
* Reassure them they have done the right thing
* Avoid leading questions
* Record information accurately
* Report immediately to the Safeguarding Officer
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11. Photography & Social Media
Stormfront Studio is committed to safe use of media.
We will:
* Obtain consent where appropriate
* Never share inappropriate images
* Avoid identifying children by full name publicly
* Monitor online behaviour linked to the studio
Inappropriate online conduct may result in disciplinary action.
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12. Anti-Bullying Commitment
Stormfront Studio has zero tolerance for:
* Bullying
* Harassment
* Discrimination
* Intimidation
All concerns will be investigated promptly and fairly.
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13. Health & Safety
We are committed to providing:
* Safe training environments
* Appropriate supervision
* Qualified coaching
* Emergency procedures
* Risk-aware practices during classes, events and travel
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14. Confidentiality & Data Protection
Safeguarding information will:
* Be stored securely
* Only be shared on a need-to-know basis
* Be handled in line with UK GDPR and data protection laws
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15. Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if:
* Legislation changes
* Guidance updates
* Incidents highlight the need for revision
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16. Contact Information
Stormfront Studio
Safeguarding Officer: Eve Morgan
admin@stormfront-studio.com