Safeguarding Policy

Purpose and Scope

This policy outlines the safeguarding measures that Epiphany Theatre takes to protect the welfare, safety, and well-being of all children and young people (aged 11–18) participating in our activities, workshops, rehearsals, and performances.

It applies to:

  • All staff (paid and unpaid)

  • Volunteers

  • Visiting practitioners

  • Contractors and external providers

  • Any adult working with young people in connection with Epiphany Theatre

This policy also extends to online communications, marketing, and use of photographs/video recordings involving young people

Key Principles

  • Child-Centred Approach: The welfare of the child is always the paramount concern.

  • Zero Tolerance: We do not tolerate any form of abuse, neglect, bullying, harassment, discrimination, or exploitation.

  • Partnership Working: We actively cooperate with parents, guardians, schools, and local safeguarding authorities.

  • Confidentiality: Concerns are shared on a strictly need-to-know basis, following UK GDPR and data protection law.

  • Accountability: All staff and volunteers are responsible for safeguarding, regardless of role.

Roles and Responsibilities

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL):

  • Sam Skinner (Artistic Director)

  • Responsible for overseeing all safeguarding concerns, maintaining safeguarding records, and making referrals to statutory services.

All Staff, Volunteers & Practitioners:

  • Must be aware of safeguarding policy before working with students.

  • Must remain vigilant and immediately report any concerns to the DSL.

Commitment to Safeguarding

Epiphany Theatre is committed to:

  • Creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where all young people can thrive.

  • Protecting children and young people from harm, abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

  • Promoting student voice and participation — listening to and respecting the views of young people.

  • Acting swiftly and appropriately where safeguarding concerns are identified.

  • Working in partnership with parents/guardians, local safeguarding partners, and statutory agencies when required.

Preventative Measures

Safe Recruitment:

  • Enhanced DBS checks required for anyone with unsupervised access to students.

  • Safer recruitment procedures followed.

Supervision & Ratios:

  • Appropriate staff-to-student ratios maintained at all times.

  • No adult left alone with a student unless it is an approved and risk-assessed one-to-one session.

Code of Conduct:

  • Professional boundaries strictly maintained.

  • No exchange of personal contact details or private communication with students.

Online Safety:

  • Photos, videos, or social media posts involving young people require written parental/guardian consent.

Whistleblowing:

  • A clear process is in place for raising concerns about unsafe practice, misconduct, or safeguarding failures.

Safeguarding Procedures

If a concern arises:

  • Immediate safety first: ensure the young person is not in danger.

  • Report: All concerns must be reported to the DSL immediately.

  • Record: A written safeguarding record will be completed and stored securely.

  • Refer: The DSL will contact the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO), Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH), or police as
    appropriate.

  • Follow-up: Parents/guardians will be informed where appropriate, unless this places the young person at further risk.

If a safeguarding concern involves the Designated Safeguarding Lead, concerns should be reported directly to the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) or appropriate safeguarding authority.

Monitoring and Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if legislation or best practice guidance changes. All safeguarding incidents will be logged and monitored for patterns, risks, and learning. Policy updates will be communicated to all staff, volunteers, and participants.

This policy has been informed by UK safeguarding legislation and guidance, including Working Together to Safeguard Children and NSPCC best practice guidance.

Contact Information:

  • Designated Safeguarding Lead: Sam Skinner