Safeguarding Policy

1. Introduction

OneArts (Company No. 17080224) prioritises the safety and well-being of all students. OneArts provides performing arts classes for students of all levels, ranging from complete beginners to those pursuing professional careers. We are committed to providing a safe and secure environment for all participants, particularly children and young people. This policy outlines our commitment to safeguarding and the procedures in place to protect those who use our services.

OneArts is a subsidiary of Ivx, registered in England and Wales (Company No. 17080224).

2. Purpose and Scope

The purpose of this policy is to:

  • Protect children and young people who receive any service from OneArts.
  • Provide staff, volunteers, and parents with the overarching principles that guide our approach to safeguarding.
  • Ensure that all students, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation, have a positive and safe experience.

This policy applies to anyone working on behalf of OneArts, including directors, employees, freelance instructors, and volunteers.

3. Legal Framework

This policy has been drawn up on the basis of legislation, policy, and guidance that seeks to protect children in England and Wales. This includes:

  • Children Act 1989 and 2004
  • United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC)
  • Working Together to Safeguard Children (2023)
  • Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE)
  • Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR
4. Our Principles

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.
  • The welfare of the child is paramount.
5. Safer Recruitment

OneArts ensures that all staff and instructors undergo a rigorous recruitment process. This includes:

  • Verifying identity and qualifications.
  • Obtaining professional references.
  • Conducting Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks for all individuals engaged in regulated activity.
  • Providing ongoing safeguarding training and inductions.
6. Code of Conduct

All staff and instructors at OneArts must adhere to a strict code of conduct. This includes:

  • Prioritising the safety and wellbeing of students at all times.
  • Maintaining professional boundaries. While performing arts may involve physical correction or contact for technical guidance, this must always be done professionally, with consent, and in an open environment.
  • Avoiding any private communication with students under 18 via personal social media or messaging platforms.
7. Identifying and Reporting Concerns

We recognise that abuse can take many forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, and neglect.

Procedures for Reporting:

  1. Observation: If a member of staff or a volunteer has a concern about a student’s welfare, they must record their observations immediately.
  2. Disclosure: If a student discloses information regarding abuse, the staff member will listen calmly, reassure the student, and inform them that the information must be shared with the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).
  3. Action: The DSL will review the concern and, where necessary, make a referral to local authority children’s social care or the police.
8. Physical Contact in Performing Arts

In the context of dance and drama training, physical contact may be necessary to correct posture or ensure safety during choreography. OneArts ensures that:

  • Physical contact is kept to a minimum and is relevant to the student’s development.
  • Instruction is provided in a group setting or within sight of others.
  • Consent is sought from the student before any physical adjustment is made.
9. Photography and Media

OneArts may occasionally take photographs or video footage of classes and performances for marketing or educational purposes.

  • Written consent will be obtained from parents or guardians before any images of students under 18 are taken or used.
  • Images will be stored securely in accordance with our Privacy Policy.
10. Contact Information

If you have any questions regarding this policy or wish to report a concern, please contact our administration team via our website: onearts.uk.

OneArts
Subsidiary of Ivx
Registered Office: England and Wales
Company No. 17080224

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