Child Protection Policy

Introduction

All children under the age of 18 are safeguarded from physical, sexual and emotional harm while taking part. Further, the Club requires that all producers, helpers, production staff and other paid or voluntary helpers working with children and young people always follow the Child and Young Person Protection Policy.

The Club recognises that abuse can take many forms, whether it be physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse or neglect. The Club is committed to practice which protects children and young people from harm.

The Designated Child Protection Officer is Brenda Reid, and all members are aware of her role within the society

Purpose of the Policy

The purpose of the Child and Young People Protection Policy is to:

  • Promote the welfare of children and young people involved in its productions
  • Ensure the club fulfils its duty of care in relation to the welfare of children and young people
  • Protect children and young people and those working with them
  • Define arrangements for protection of children and young people
  • Identify the responsibilities of adults in charge of productions

The Terms of the Policy

  1. All parents/carers will be given a copy of the child protection policy when their child/ward joins the theatre
  2. Effective management will be given to staff and volunteers through supervision, support and training
  3. Information about child and young people protection and good practice will be shared with all members identified as working with children or young people
  4. All relevant safety procedures/legislation will be adhered to when working with children and young people
  5. All new producers and other key production volunteers will be required to complete a “Protection of Vulnerable Groups” (PVG process prior to commencing production work involving children and young people
  6. Children and young people will be directly supervised by a PVG checked member of the theatre
  7. If children choose to leave the theatre during a rehearsal or production/performance, they will not be supervised
  8. Action will be taken within the Club to stop any inappropriate verbal or physical behaviour.
  9. A special health/contact information form should be completed for every child and young person members so that the club and in particular the designated Child Protection Officer are aware of any health issues that could cause a problem during rehearsals or performances e.g., epilepsy or diabetes.  Emergency contact details should also be included on this form.  Such forms will be always held securely and accessibly within the Club
  10. The club should read and follow suggested guidelines offered by its local council, SCDA and/or NODA
  11. The club will be adequately insured on and off its own premises
  12. Casual visitors to rehearsals should be monitored at all times
  13. Adults should provide an example of the good conduct that we wish children and young people to follow e.g., Inappropriate or suggestive remarks should be avoided
  14. No favouritism should be shown to any individual
  15. The appropriate child protection officer or other PVG checked adult will be appointed to take charge of any incident reported
  16. Adults, children and young people should work together as a team
  17. Anyone under the influence of alcohol or other prohibited substances who is deemed to put themselves or others at risk will not be allowed to participate in either a rehearsal or performance

The CPO or nominated adult(s) should carry details of all children and young people in case of emergency.

This policy will be regularly monitored by the Committee of the club and will be subject to annual review.

Updated August 2024