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1. Introduction

At Rise and Reframe, I am committed to creating a safe and supportive online and face to face environment for all users, including children and young people. Safeguarding is my priority, and I strive to protect everyone who interacts with my website or organisation, especially vulnerable individuals, from harm, abuse, or exploitation.

I have a valid DBS certificate and am happy to produce this when needed. 

I have also worked within an educational environment for 20 years prior to launching Rise and Reframe so am fully aware of safeguarding policies implemented in schools. 

This policy sets out the principles, responsibilities, and procedures we follow to ensure safety and well being online.

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2. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to:

• Promote the welfare and safety of all website users, with specific protections for children.

• Prevent abuse, neglect, and harm.

• Ensure everyone understands their safeguarding responsibilities.

• Provide clear reporting procedures for concerns.

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3. Scope

This policy applies to:

• All visitors, members, and users of the Rise and Reframe website, including children and young people under 18.

• All employees, contractors, moderators, and volunteers who manage or contribute to website content.

• All online services, including forums, blogs, social media integrations, webinars, and support sessions hosted on or linked through the website.

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4. Safeguarding Principles

Rise and Reframe commits to:

1. User Safety First: The safety of users is paramount in all website interactions.

2. Zero Tolerance for Abuse: Any form of bullying, harassment, exploitation, or inappropriate behaviour is not tolerated.

3. Child Protection: Children’s safety is a priority. Any suspected abuse or inappropriate interaction involving a child will be reported immediately.

4. Confidentiality and Respect: Personal information shared with me is handled with confidentiality, in line with our Privacy Policy and the EMCC code of ethics

5. Transparency: Users will be informed about our safeguarding practices and reporting mechanisms.

6. Continuous Improvement: Safeguarding practices are regularly reviewed and updated in response to new risks or user feedback.

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5. Safeguarding Children

At Rise and Reframe, the safety and well being of children and young people is my top priority, especially during in-person activities, workshops, and events. I am committed to providing a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment for all children who attend our programs.

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My Commitment

When children participate in face-to-face activities, I ensure:​

• Trained Staff and Volunteers: All staff and volunteers working directly with children are trained in child safeguarding and first aid where appropriate.

• Safe Conduct: Staff, volunteers, and participants follow clear codes of conduct to maintain appropriate boundaries.

• Preventing Harm: Any signs of abuse, neglect, or unsafe behavior are taken seriously and reported immediately to the appropriate authorities.

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Guidelines for Staff and Volunteers

To keep children safe during face-to-face interactions, staff and volunteers must:

1. Maintain Professional Boundaries

2. Supervision: Ensure children are always supervised by qualified staff during activities.

3. Reporting Concerns: Immediately report any signs of harm, abuse, or inappropriate behaviour to the Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO) within the educational environment or other relevant authorities. 

4. Respect and Inclusion: Treat all children with respect, listen to their concerns, and encourage them to speak up if they feel unsafe.

5. Safe Communication: Only use approved channels to communicate with children, and ensure parents/guardians are informed about event details.

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Guidelines for Children

Children attending Rise and Reframe events should:

• Speak up if they feel uncomfortable, unsafe, or unsure about any situation.

• Follow the instructions of staff and volunteers to ensure safety.

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Guidelines for Parents and Guardians

We ask parents and guardians to:

• Ensure children are registered and accompanied when required.

• Provide emergency contact information and inform staff of any medical conditions or specific needs.

• Encourage children to speak up about any concerns.

• Report any incidents or concerns they notice during events.

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Reporting a Concern

If a child is at immediate risk of harm, contact local authorities or emergency services first. All safeguarding concerns will be treated confidentially and addressed promptly.

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Useful Resources

• Childline – Support for children and young people.

• NSPCC – Guidance on child safeguarding and face-to-face activities.

• UK Safer Internet Centre – Online safety guidance (for events with digital elements).

Remember: Keeping children safe is everyone’s responsibility. If something feels wrong, report it immediately.

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6. Online Safety Guidelines

To maintain a safe online environment, we:

• Moderate forums, comments, and user submissions.

• Remove harmful, abusive, or illegal content.

• Encourage respectful communication and inclusive behaviour.

• Implement technical measures to protect personal information, particularly for users under 18.

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9. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if:

• There are changes in legislation or government guidance.

• There are significant safeguarding incidents.

• Feedback indicates a need for improvement.

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10. Key References

• Keeping children safe in Education (UK)

• UK GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018

• Working Together to Safeguard Children UK 

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