SAFEGUARDING AND CHILD PROTECTION
POLICIES

The Dear Academy is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and young people. We believe that every child has the right to be protected from harm, abuse, and neglect and that safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. This policy outlines our approach to ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all children in our care. 

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Legal Framework 

This policy has been developed in accordance with the following statutory guidance and legislation:

• Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE, 2024)

• Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018, updated 2023)

• Children Act 1989 and 2004

• Education Act 2002

• The Equality Act 2010

• The Human Rights Act 1998

• GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018 

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Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) 

The Dear Academy has one Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), who is also the founder and sole practitioner. The DSL is responsible for all aspects of safeguarding and child protection. In the event that the DSL is unavailable (e.g., due to illness or emergency), concerns must be reported directly to the local authority safeguarding team. Name of DSL: Elizabeth Powell Contact: elizabeth@thedearacademy.com | 07777182444 

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Types of Abuse 

Abuse is a form of maltreatment of a child. It can be caused by inflicting harm or by failing to act to prevent harm. The main types of abuse include: 

• Physical abuse

• Emotional abuse

• Sexual abuse

• Neglect Staff are trained to identify the signs of abuse and take appropriate action. 

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Procedures for Reporting Concerns 

• Any concern should be reported immediately to the DSL using the internal safeguarding form.

• If a child is in immediate danger, contact emergency services (999) and inform the DSL as soon as possible.

• The DSL will follow the local safeguarding partnership procedures for referring to external agencies. 

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Safer Recruitment 

We follow safer recruitment practices to ensure all staff and volunteers are suitable to work with children. This includes: • Enhanced DBS checks

• Identity and reference checks

• Ongoing training and supervision 

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Training 

The DSL receives advanced safeguarding training at least every two years and maintains up-to-date knowledge of child protection legislation and best practice. 

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Allegations Against Staff 

Any allegation against a member of staff will be taken seriously and referred to the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO). The DSL is responsible for ensuring this process is followed promptly and with discretion. 

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Policy Review 

This policy will be reviewed annually or in response to significant changes in legislation or practice. The review will be led by the DSL and approved by leadership. 

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May 2025