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Child Protection policy

Policy Statement 

The Fourth Trimester Postpartum CIC (The Fourth) is committed to safeguarding the welfare of all children and young people who engage with our services. We believe that every child has the right to be protected from harm, abuse, and neglect, and we are dedicated to providing a safe and nurturing environment. This policy outlines our commitment to child protection and provides guidance for staff, volunteers, and stakeholders.

Scope 

This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, and representatives of The Fourth, including those involved in the delivery of workshops, events, and support services.

Key Principles

  1. Child-Centered Approach: The welfare of the child is paramount.

  2. Equality and Non-Discrimination: All children, regardless of age, gender, disability, ethnicity, religion, or sexual orientation, have equal rights to protection.

  3. Empowerment: We aim to empower children and their families to understand and exercise their rights.

  4. Accountability: All staff and volunteers are responsible for implementing this policy and adhering to safeguarding protocols.

Legislative Framework 

This policy aligns with the following legislation and guidance:

  • Children Act 1989 and 2004

  • Working Together to Safeguard Children 2018

  • Keeping Children Safe in Education 2023

  • Child Protection in the Community Guidelines (Devon)

  • The Equality Act 2010

Definitions of Abuse 

We recognise the four main categories of abuse:

  • Physical Abuse: Intentional physical harm.

  • Emotional Abuse: Persistent emotional maltreatment.

  • Sexual Abuse: Forcing or enticing a child to engage in sexual activities.

  • Neglect: Persistent failure to meet basic physical and psychological needs.

Roles and Responsibilities

  1. Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

    • Oversees the implementation of this policy.

    • Acts as the main point of contact for safeguarding concerns.

    • Ensures staff and volunteers receive appropriate safeguarding training.

  2. Staff and Volunteers

    • Must complete safeguarding training and understand the reporting procedures.

    • Are responsible for maintaining a safe environment.

    • Must report any safeguarding concerns to the DSL immediately.

  3. Board of Directors

    • Ensures the organization complies with statutory requirements.

    • Reviews this policy annually.

Safeguarding Procedures

  1. Recruitment and Induction

    • All staff and volunteers will undergo DBS checks at the appropriate level for their role.

    • References will be obtained and verified.

    • New recruits will receive safeguarding training as part of their induction if they have not already received this in the last 12m.

  2. Recognising and Reporting Concerns

    • Staff and volunteers must remain vigilant to signs of abuse or neglect.

    • Concerns should be documented and reported to the DSL immediately using the Safeguarding Concern Form.

  3. Responding to Disclosures

    • Listen carefully and reassure the child without making promises.

    • Do not investigate; record the information and pass it to the DSL.

    • Maintain confidentiality, sharing information only with relevant authorities.

  4. Training

    • Regular safeguarding training will be provided to all staff and volunteers.

    • Training will be updated 3 yearly, or earlier if relevant, to reflect changes in legislation and best practices.

Confidentiality and Information Sharing 

We adhere to the principle that the safety of the child overrides confidentiality. Information will only be shared with relevant agencies as per GDPR guidelines and safeguarding protocols.

Partnerships 

The Fourth will work collaboratively with local safeguarding boards, schools, and other community organisations to promote child welfare and share best practices.

Monitoring and Review 

This policy will be reviewed annually or in response to changes in legislation. The review will include consultation with staff, volunteers, and external safeguarding advisors.

Contact Information

  • Designated Safeguarding Lead: Grace Williams hello@thefourthcic.co.uk and 07534190189

  • Local Authority Safeguarding Board: Devon Children and Families Partnership 

Please use online referral form - https://devoncountycouncil.outsystemsenterprise.com/MASH/homepage   

However, if you deem the child to be at risk of significant harm you have an option to contact DCFP Front Door directly on 0345 155 1071 - Monday-Thursday 9am-5pm and Friday 9am-4pm. You will still be required to complete an online form within their timescales.

If help is needed outside of these hours or at weekends or bank holidays, please call the Emergency Duty Service on 0345 6000 388.

  • NSPCC Helpline: 0808 800 5000