1. Introduction
ANGODA Ltd, Company number 15752643, acting as a Franchisee of "IMPACT ACADEMIES&CAMPS" (hereinafter referred to as "the Franchisee") is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and young people in our care. This policy outlines our commitment to protect children from harm, abuse, and neglect and to provide a safe environment for them to learn and thrive.

2. Purpose of the Policy
The purpose of this policy is to:

• Ensure that all children participating in our programs are safe and protected from harm.
• Provide clear guidelines to staff, volunteers, and all stakeholders on how to recognize and respond to concerns regarding child protection.
• Outline the responsibilities of staff and management in safeguarding children.
• Establish procedures for reporting and responding to child protection concerns.

3. Scope
This policy applies to all staff members, volunteers, contractors, and anyone working on behalf of the Franchisee. It covers all activities, including after-school programs, camps, workshops, and any events involving children under the age of 18.

4. Legal Framework
This policy is guided by the following UK legislation and statutory guidance:

• Children Act 1989 and 2004
• Education Act 2002
• The Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006
• Working Together to Safeguard Children 2018
• Keeping Children Safe in Education 2023
• The Protection of Freedoms Act 2012
• Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR

5. Definitions

• Safeguarding: Protecting children from maltreatment, preventing impairment of health or development, ensuring children grow up in safe and effective care, and taking action to enable children to have the best outcomes.
• Child Protection: Part of safeguarding and promoting welfare. It refers to activities undertaken to protect specific children who are suffering, or are at risk of suffering, significant harm.

6. Roles and Responsibilities

• Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): The Franchise appoints a DSL who is responsible for overseeing child protection and safeguarding within the organization. The DSL will:
• Provide support to staff on safeguarding matters.
• Ensure all staff understand and follow the safeguarding policy.
• Liaise with local authorities and other external agencies when necessary.
• Maintain detailed and secure records of any child protection concerns.
• Staff and Volunteers: All staff and volunteers have a duty to:
• Familiarize themselves with this policy.
• Participate in safeguarding training provided by the Franchisee.
• Report any concerns about a child's welfare to the DSL immediately.
• Follow the procedures outlined in this policy for reporting concerns.

7. Recognizing Abuse and Neglect
All staff should be aware of the signs of abuse and neglect, which may include:

• Physical abuse: Unexplained injuries, bruises, burns, or fractures.
• Emotional abuse: Excessive withdrawal, fear, or anxiety, low self-esteem, or developmental delays.
• Sexual abuse: Inappropriate sexual behaviour, knowledge, or language, or changes in behaviour such as bedwetting.
• Neglect: Poor hygiene, inadequate clothing, hunger, or untreated medical issues.

8. Procedures for Reporting Concerns

• Any member of staff or volunteer who has concerns about a child's safety or welfare must report it to the DSL immediately.
• The DSL will assess the situation and decide whether further action is needed, including whether to make a referral to local children’s social care.
• In cases where a child is in immediate danger, staff should contact emergency services without delay and inform the DSL as soon as possible.
• All concerns, discussions, and decisions made must be documented and stored securely.

9. Responding to Disclosures
If a child discloses information indicating they are at risk, staff should:

• Listen carefully and stay calm.
• Reassure the child that they are doing the right thing by speaking up.
• Avoid asking leading questions or making promises that cannot be kept (e.g., promising not to tell anyone).
• Report the disclosure to the DSL immediately and record the details accurately.

10. Safe Recruitment Practices
The Franchisee is committed to safe recruitment practices, which include:

• Conducting DBS checks on all staff, volunteers, and anyone working with children.
• Verifying professional references and employment history.
• Ensuring all staff understand and commit to the safeguarding policy.

11. Safeguarding Training
All staff and volunteers will receive regular training on safeguarding and child protection to ensure they are equipped to recognize and respond to concerns. The DSL will ensure that training is updated in line with any changes in legislation or guidance.

12. Confidentiality and Information Sharing

• Information about child protection concerns should be shared on a need-to-know basis only.
• The Franchisee will follow statutory guidance on information sharing, ensuring that the child's best interests are always prioritized.

13. Monitoring and Review
This policy will be reviewed annually by the DSL and updated as necessary to reflect changes in legislation, guidance, or practice. Any changes will be communicated to all staff and volunteers.

14. Contact Information

• Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): Andrei Gorin, tel: 07403274427
• Deputy Safeguarding Lead: Dana Dohotaru, tel: 07576248055
• Local Authority Children’s Social Care: Southampton Children and Families’ Social Care, tel: 023 8083 3004
• NSPCC Helpline: 0808 800 5000

15. Policy Approval
This policy has been approved by ANGODA Ltd management and will be communicated to all staff and volunteers.
Date: 03/09/2024

Signature: