SAFEGUARDING POLICY STATEMENT

The purpose and scope of this policy statement

Paths to Learning [PtL] works with children and families. Part of its activities include:

• assessing children orally and in writing, online though a Teams or Zoom call for the purpose of advising parents on the best path for their child’s learning.
• From time to time, with parent’s consent, staff and volunteers of PtL may attend the home of the child for the purpose of undertaking an assessment. This will be undertaken in the presence of the parent.

The purpose of this policy statement is:

• to protect children and young people who receive PtL’s services.
• to provide parents, staff and volunteers with the overarching principles that guide our approach to child protection.

This policy statement applies to anyone working on behalf of PtL including paid staff and volunteers.

Legal Framework

This policy has been drawn up on the basis of legislation, policy and guidance that seeks to protect children in England. A summary of the key legislation and guidance is available from nspcc.org.uk/childprotection

We believe that:

• children and young people should never experience abuse of any kind
• we have a responsibility to promote the welfare of all children and young people, to keep them safe and to practise in a way that protects them.

We recognise that:

• the welfare of the child is paramount
• all children, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation have a right to equal protection from all types of harm or abuse
• some children are additionally vulnerable because of the impact of previous experiences, their level of dependency, communication needs or other issues
• working in partnership with children, young people, their parents, carers and other agencies is essential in promoting young people’s welfare.

We recognise that:

• valuing, listening to and respecting children, young people, their parents, carers
• appointing a nominated child protection/safeguarding lead for safeguarding
• developing child protection and safeguarding policies and procedures which reflect best practice
• using our safeguarding procedures to share concerns and relevant information with agencies who need to know, and involving children, young people, parents, families and carers appropriately
• creating and maintaining an anti-bullying environment and ensuring that we have a procedure to help us deal effectively with any bullying that does arise
• providing effective management for staff and volunteers through supervision, support, and training
• implementing a code of conduct for staff and volunteers

using our procedures to manage any allegations appropriately

ensuring that we provide a safe physical environment for our children, young people, staff and volunteers, by applying health and safety measures in accordance with the law and regulatory guidance

recording and storing information professionally and securely.

Related policy

Privacy policy

Contact details

Nominated Child Protection Lead Name: Felicity Hough

Phone/email: 0772 161 7447
NSPCC Helpline 0808 800 5000

We are committed to reviewing our policy and good practice annually.

This policy was last reviewed on: 1 March 2023

Signed: Felicity Hough

Date: 1 March 2023