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SAFEGUARDING
POLICIES

The Dear Academy
Effective Date: 23.04.25

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1. Policy Statement

The Dear Academy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children. We believe that every child has the right to feel safe, secure, and valued while in our care. We aim to create a supportive, nurturing environment where children can learn, play, and grow with confidence and protection.

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. All staff, volunteers, and adults working with us share a commitment to the safety and wellbeing of the children we serve.

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2. Purpose and Scope

This policy applies to:

  • All staff, session leaders, volunteers, and visiting professionals

  • All children and families engaging with The Dear Academy services

  • All physical and online activities associated with our learning provision

It outlines how we safeguard children, prevent harm, and respond to any concerns appropriately.

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3. Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

At present, The Dear Academy is led and operated by a single practitioner, who also serves as the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL). They are responsible for overseeing all safeguarding procedures, responding to concerns, and liaising with external agencies if necessary.

DSL: Elizabeth Powell
Email: elizabeth@thedearacademy.com

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4. Recognising Abuse and Neglect

We are alert to the signs of abuse, which may include:

  • Physical abuse – bruises, burns, or unexplained injuries

  • Emotional abuse – extreme behaviour, withdrawal, low self-esteem

  • Sexual abuse – inappropriate sexual knowledge or behaviour

  • Neglect – poor hygiene, hunger, unsuitable clothing

Staff and volunteers receive safeguarding training to recognise and respond to these signs.

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5. Reporting Concerns

Anyone with a concern must report it to the DSL immediately.

  • Concerns should be shared as soon as possible, either in person or via email/phone.

  • All concerns will be documented clearly and securely, using the child’s own words when relevant.

  • If a child is in immediate danger, emergency services should be contacted (999), and the DSL informed afterward.

 

6. Responding to a Disclosure

If a child shares something with you:

  • Stay calm and listen

  • Avoid asking leading questions

  • Reassure them they’ve done the right thing by telling you

  • Do not promise confidentiality – explain you may need to share it

  • Inform the DSL as soon as possible

 

7. Safer Recruitment

We are committed to safe recruitment practices. This includes:

  • Interview and reference checks

  • Enhanced DBS checks for all staff and volunteers

  • Ongoing safeguarding training and supervision

 

8. Code of Conduct

All adults working with The Dear Academy must:

  • Treat children with respect at all times

  • Never be alone with a child in a private space

  • Avoid physical contact unless necessary for safety or comfort

  • Use appropriate language and behaviour

  • Report any concerns, however small

 

9. Online Safety

We manage online safety with care:

  • No child images or videos will be used publicly without parental consent

  • Personal information is kept secure and only shared when necessary

  • Online tools used in any remote sessions (if applicable) are age-appropriate and safely monitored

 

10. Confidentiality and Record Keeping

All safeguarding concerns are recorded clearly, dated, and stored securely. Information is shared only on a need-to-know basis and in accordance with data protection laws.

 

11. Whistleblowing

If anyone working with The Dear Academy has concerns about another adult’s behaviour, they must report it to the DSL or to the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO).

 

12. Policy Review

This policy is reviewed annually or following a significant incident or change in guidance. The DSL is responsible for ensuring the policy remains up to date.

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