link - Living Hope Community Church

Transcription

link - Living Hope Community Church
SAFEGUARDING POLICY
For volunteers and staff working with
children, youth and vulnerable adults.
Page Number
Page 2
Page 3
Page 4
Page 5
Page 6-7
Content
Index page
1(a) Church details
1(b) Mission statement
1(c) Introduction to Policy
2(a) Definitions
2(b) Roles and responsibilities
Every church member
Leaders of children and YP work
Leadership team
Child safeguarding co-ordinator
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Page 9
Page 10
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Page 12
Page 12
Page 13
Page 14-18
2(c)Recognising and responding to abuse
2(d) Dealing with disclosure of abuse and
procedure for reporting concerns
2(e) Initial assessment by a child safeguarding coordinator
2(f) Reporting and dealing with allegation of abuse
against staff and volunteers
2(g) Reporting of an incident at a church event
3(a) Procedures for new volunteers under the age
of 16 to work in children’s ministry
3(b) Procedures for new volunteers over the age
of 16 to work in children’s ministry
3(c) How to complete a DBS online application
4(a) Good Practice guidelines
Ratios
The way we work
Can I touch a child?
Transporting children
Keeping parents informed
Abuse of trust
Health and safety
Overnight events
Page 19-21
Page 21-22
Page 22-23
4(b) Social Media good practice guide
4(c) Risk Assessment
4(d) Guidelines for:
Camping and residential trips
Residential settings
Youth meetings at home
Page 24
Page 25
Page 26-36
4(e) Checklist for camping and residential trips
5(a) useful contacts
Appendix 1: Parent consent form for under 16
Appendix 2: Disclosure Report Form
Appendix 3: Incident Report Form
Appendix 4: Child Registration Form
Appendix 5: Risk Assessment Form
Appendix 6: transporting children by car
Appendix 7: Parental consent form for one to one and
transporting a teenager alone
Date: 3rd March 2014
Review Date: August 2015
Page 2
1(a) Church Details
Living Hope Community Church (hereafter, “The Church”)
Located in Port St Mary, Douglas, Peel and Ramsey, on the Isle of Man.
Website: www.livinghope.im
1(b) Mission Statement
The church has a growing ministry amongst children, young people and adults, including vulnerable adults
and takes seriously its responsibilities to protect and safeguard the welfare of children, young people and
vulnerable adults entrusted to its care, as well as those who volunteer or work with them.
The Church is committed to:
 Listening to, relating effectively and valuing children, young people and vulnerable adults whilst
ensuring their protection within church activities.
 Encouraging and supporting parents/carers.
 Ensuring that teachers and leaders of children, young people and vulnerable adults are given support
and training.
 Having a system for dealing with concerns about possible abuse.
 Maintaining good links with statutory child care authorities and other organisations.
1(c) Church Policy
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As members of this church, we commit ourselves to the nurturing, protection and safeguarding of all,
especially children, young people and all adults.
It is the responsibility of each one of us to prevent the physical, sexual and emotional abuse of
children, young people and vulnerable adults, whilst in our care and to report any abuse discovered or
suspected.
We recognise that our work with children, young people and vulnerable adults is the responsibility of
the whole church.
We undertake to exercise proper care in the selection and appointment of those working with
children, young people and vulnerable adults, whether paid or volunteer.
The church is committed to supporting, resourcing and training those who work with children, young
people and vulnerable adults, and to providing supervision.
Members of the Church adhere to the Isle of Man Safeguarding Children Board Interagency Child
Protection Procedures in all aspects of their work and contact with children, young people and
vulnerable adults, their families and carers.
The church will ensure that as well as being made aware of the child protection policy that members
are given training on child protection awareness and procedures relative to their roles and
responsibilities within the church.
As part of our commitment to children and young people the church has appointed Christine Turner as
Child Safeguarding Manager and Co-ordinator for Ramsey. Furthermore the following people are Child
Safeguarding Co-ordinators for the local churches: Carole Mosley (for Port St Mary), Trevor kirk (for
Peel) and Sue Smith (for Douglas). Their role will be explained to children and their name(s) and phone
number(s) publicly displayed.
Date: 3rd March 2014
Review Date: August 2015
Page 3
Signed on behalf of members:
Adrian Porter (On behalf of the Directors)
Sue Smith (Safeguarding
Co-ordinator - Douglas)
Carole Mosley (Safeguarding
Co-ordinator – Port St Mary)
Trevor Kirk (Safeguarding
Co-ordinator - Peel)
Christine Turner (Safeguarding
Co-ordinator – Ramsey and overall
Safeguarding Manager)
2(a) DEFINITIONS
Child: a person aged 14 or under
Young person: a person aged between 15 and 17
Vulnerable adult: A vulnerable adult is someone aged 18 or over:
 Who is, or may be, in need of community services due to age, illness or a mental or physical disability
 Who is, or may be, unable to take care of himself/herself, or unable to protect himself/herself against
significant harm or exploitation
Date: 3rd March 2014
Review Date: August 2015
Page 4
(Definition from the Department of Health 2002)
Abuse can affect any adult, but particularly someone who is, or may be, unable to protect themselves against
significant harm or exploitation and may therefore be deemed vulnerable, for example:
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Older people
People with mental health problems
Disabled people
People with learning difficulties
People with acquired brain damage
People who misuse substances
Vulnerability can also be temporary and may not be recognised by the individual
The church recognises the following as definitions of abuse:
Physical Abuse
Physical abuse causes harm to a person. It may involve hitting, shaking, throwing, poisoning, burning, scalding,
drowning, suffocating or otherwise causing physical harm. It may be done deliberately or recklessly, or be the
result of a deliberate failure to prevent injury occurring.
Neglect
Neglect is the persistent or severe failure to meet a child, young person’s or vulnerable adults basic physical
and/or psychological needs including love, stimulation, safety, nourishment, warmth, education and medical
attention. It is likely to result in serious impairment of the child’s or vulnerable adult’s health or development.
Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse involves a child, young person or vulnerable adult being forced or coerced into participating in or
watching sexual activity. It is not necessary for the person to be aware that the activity is sexual and the
apparent consent of the person is irrelevant.
Emotional Abuse
Emotional abuse occurs where there is persistent emotional ill treatment or rejection. Repeatedly rejecting
children, young people or vulnerable adults, humiliating them or denying their worth and rights as human
beings. It causes severe and adverse effects on their behaviour and emotional development, resulting in low
self-worth. Some level of emotional abuse is present in all forms of abuse.
Discrimination, harassment and bullying are also abusive and can harm a person both physically and
emotionally.
Date: 3rd March 2014
Review Date: August 2015
Page 5
2(b) ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Every Church Member
Everyone in the church has his or her part to play in ensuring that any safeguarding policy is effective. It is the
responsibility of all within the church to ensure there is a welcome for children, young people and vulnerable
adults and an intolerance of all that brings harm to them.
All church members should be alert to situations where children or adults may be vulnerable and they should
speak to the Child Safeguarding Co-ordinator if they suspect that a child or vulnerable adult is being harmed.
Leaders of Children and Young Peoples Work
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All Leaders of groups need to know all of the above Policy. They also need to know the principles of
good supervision and what to do if one of their workers shares with them concerns about a child or
young person.
It is the responsibility of the leader of each group to notify the Child Safeguarding Co-ordinator of any
new potential leaders and to ensure they follow the safeguarding procedures, are DBS checked and
trained.
It is the responsibility of the leader of each group to update the children, youth database by ensuring
the correct child registration form has been completed.
The Elders
The Elders are ultimately responsible for ensuring that the policy is implemented and resourced in the church.
Elders and ministry leaders involved with children or vulnerable adults should be fully conversant with the
Child Safeguarding Policy.
The Elders should:
 review the policy annually (August)
 Give support for those who are working with children and young people
 Ensure that training needs of workers are met
 Make appropriate budget provisions for training and safeguarding
 Find ways of communicating the policy to the whole of the church
The Child Safeguarding Manager
Is responsible for:
 Working with the Elders and safeguarding co-ordinators to ensure that all working with children and
vulnerable adults have completed the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) application and completed
the Church’s Child Protection Training.
 Providing advice and support on issues relating to child protection.
 Overseeing the referral of cases of suspected abuse or allegations to the relevant investigating
agencies
 Maintaining a proper record of any child protection referral, complaint or concern (even where that
concern does not lead to a referral)
 Liaising with other appropriate agencies and each congregation Child Safeguarding Co-ordinator
Date: 3rd March 2014
Review Date: August 2015
Page 6
The Child Safeguarding Administrator
Is responsible for:
 Maintaining a proper record of any child protection safeguarding referral, complaint or concern (even
where that concern does not lead to a referral)
 Keep and manage a proper record of volunteer database
 Keep and manage a proper record of Children, young people and vulnerable adults attending the
church regularly as part of a Sunday congregation or children and youth ministry through the week.
 Maintaining a proper record of all policy and procedures for safeguarding in Hard Copy format.
Each congregation Child Safeguarding Co-ordinator
Is responsible for:
 Ensuring that all current and new volunteers and workers with children young people and vulnerable
adults in their congregation are recruited safely, including a DBS and attend a safeguarding training
session.
 Keeping a proper record of Children, young people and vulnerable adults attending the church
regularly.
 Keeping a proper record of all volunteers working with youth, children and vulnerable adults.
 Act as point person at their location for any safeguarding advice, issues or incidents.
Date: 3rd March 2014
Review Date: August 2015
Page 7
2(c) RECOGNISING & RESPONDING TO ABUSE
Knowing whether a child, young person or vulnerable adult is being abused or neglected may be difficult to
judge. However, all those who have contact with children, young people and vulnerable adults should be alert
to the potential indicators of abuse and neglect and know how to respond to any concerns they have.
On occasions an incident or an injury will give cause for concern but often it is a series of incidents or an
accumulation of concerns which indicate that a person may be suffering or at risk of suffering harm.
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IT SHOULD BE RECOGNISED THAT THIS LIST IS NOT EXHAUSTIVE AND THE PRESENCE OF ONE OR MORE
INDICATORS IS NOT IN ITSELF PROOF THAT ABUSE IS ACTUALLY TAKING PLACE. IT IS ALSO IMPORTANT
TO REMEMBER THAT THERE MIGHT BE OTHER REASONS WHY MOST OF THE ABOVE ARE OCCURRING.
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Children, young people and vulnerable adults might share with a trusted adult a concern they have
about their safety or disclose that they are being abused.
A child’s, young person or vulnerable adult’s observed behaviour, their physical appearance,
developmental progress and emotional demeanour might indicate that they being abused or
neglected, When sudden changes in a child’s, young person or vulnerable adult’s behaviour occur,
abuse might be a possible reason for this.
How adults behave might also give rise to concerns. Parents and carers might indicate that they are
experiencing difficulties which are having adverse effects on their child(ren), or observations of an
adult’s interaction with a child, young person or vulnerable adult might give cause for concern.
Whilst it is not possible to be prescriptive about signs and symptom of abuse and neglect, the
following list sets out some of the indicators which might be suggestive of abuse:
Unexplained or suspicious injuries such as bruising, cuts or burns, particularly if situated on a part of
the body not normally prone to such injuries;
An injury for which the explanation seems inconsistent;
Injuries which have not received appropriate medical attention;
child’s, young person or vulnerable adult describes what appears to be an abusive act involving
him/herself;
A disclosure or allegation made by a child, young person or vulnerable adult;
Someone else (a child or adult) expresses concern about the welfare of another child, young person or
vulnerable adult;
Unexplained changes in behaviour or mood (e.g becoming very quiet, withdrawn or displaying sudden
outbursts of temper);
Inappropriate sexual awareness;
Engaging in sexually explicit behaviour or play;
Nervousness/watchfulness;
Inappropriate relationships with other children and/or adults;
Signs of neglect, such as under-nourishment, untreated illnesses, inadequate care.
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Date: 3rd March 2014
Review Date: August 2015
Page 8
2(d) DEALING WITH DISCLOSURE OF ABUSE AND PROCEDURE FOR
REPORTING CONCERNS
(See disclosure report form in appendix 2)
Safeguarding
These occurrences where a young person in our care tells us they have been, still are, or might be in danger of
coming to harm (disclosure). It might also be a process of witnessing incidents or behaviour which we then go
on to question (discovery). These might be in any one of the four major categories of abuse...
1. Neglect
2. Emotional
3. Physical
4. Sexual
What should we do if a child shares information and abuse is suspected?
Individuals should not
 Take responsibility for deciding whether or not child abuse is actually taking place;
 Act alone;
 Take sole responsibility for what has been shared or any concerns they may have
But must
 Record details of Disclosure on form Appendix 2 and discuss concerns without delay with a
Safeguarding Co-ordinator so as to begin to protect the child, young person or vulnerable adult and
gain some support for all those involved in what could be a difficult situation.
 Information must be on a ‘need to know’ basis – i.e. confidential.
 If local Safeguarding Co-ordinator is not at event then a phone call or one to one conversation must
take place within 24 hours of incident. If local safeguarding co-ordinator is unavailable contact the
Safeguarding manager (Chris Turner) or the Safeguarding Administrator (Gary Kieswetter).
What should we do if abuse is disclosed?
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Listen carefully and stay calm.
Allow the child/young person to speak without interruption
Do not interview the child. Reflect back what you have been told in order to be sure that you
understand what the child is telling you.
Do not put words into the child’s mouth.
Do not promise confidentiality should they ask for this but don’t promise that that all will be well now.
Reassure the child that by telling you, they have done the right thing.
Inform the child that you must pass the information on, but only those that need to know about it will
be told. Inform them of who you will report the matter to.
As soon as possible complete the disclosure form found in appendix 2 and make detailed notes of the
date, time, place, what the child said and what you have done.
You should not investigate concerns or allegations yourself, but should report them immediately to
your local Safeguarding Co-ordinator.
Appendix 2, dated and signed, must be kept by the Safeguarding Administrator in a locked filing
cabinet or similar and retained until the child is 24. A hard copy of all electronic communication
regarding the case must also be kept.
Date: 3rd March 2014
Review Date: August 2015
Page 9
2(e) INITIAL ASSESSMENT BY A CHILD SAFEGUARDING CO-ORDINATOR
A Child Safeguarding Co-ordinator should make an initial assessment of the allegation and then confer with the
Child Safeguarding Manager. Where the allegation is considered to be either a potential criminal act or
indicates that the child, young person or vulnerable adult has suffered, is suffering or is likely to suffer
significant harm, the matter should be reported immediately.
It is important that the Child Safeguarding Co-ordinator does not investigate the allegation. The initial
assessment should be on the basis of the information received and a joint decision made whether or not the
allegation warrants further investigation. Advice can be obtained from the Churches Child Protection Agency
or Social Services.
2(f) REPORTING AND DEALING WITH ALLEGATIONS OF ABUSE OR
POSSIBILITY OF SIGNIFICANT HARM MADE AGAINST STAFF AND
VOLUNTEERS
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The Isle of Man Children and Young Persons Act 2001 states that the welfare of the child is the
paramount concern.
The Church does however recognise that an allegation may be made against a member of
staff/volunteer for a variety of reasons and that the facts of the allegation may or may not be true. It is
imperative that those dealing with an allegation maintain an open mind but that referral is not subject
to delay.
Information must be on a ‘need to know’ basis – i.e. confidential.
Allegations could be received about a person not connected with the church. In this case the same
procedure previously outlined in 2 (e) will apply.
During the investigation of an allegation the volunteer or worker will step down from their role.
2(g) REPORTING AN INCIDENT AT A CHURCH EVENT
(See incident form in appendix 3)
A Health and Safety incident
An incident is where an event has caused a person associated with the Church to 'believe' that an incident is
worthy of recording. These types of incidents are tangible; they can be witnessed, a person bumping a head
which leaves a mark or a cut with blood. They could be reporting loose carpet or lights that don't work. They
might be about an accident or even a near accident. This is an 'after the event' report.
Comments
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Having a policy document does not change the risk or manage it in any way.
The purpose of risk management is to protect people from harm or loss, it is NOT about reducing the
risk to an organisation, it will have this benefit as a side effect but that is not the purpose.
Procedures
1. All Health and Safety incident reports involving young people (17 and under) to be recorded in either
the site Accident Book or on an incident form in appendix 3, and countersigned by the leader of the
event or the Safeguarding Co-ordinator if at church site. If it is deemed necessary, a copy should be
sent to Safeguarding Manager (Christine Turner), who will action the report and forward a copy to
Safeguarding Administrator (Gary Kieswetter) within one week of receiving the report.
2. In Safeguarding Manager’s absence the report will be actioned by Safeguarding Administrator.
3. All Safeguarding incident reports will be sent to Safeguarding Administrator for action and filing.
4. Any ‘further action’ suggested by the incident report must be reported to the leadership within
24hours of the incident occurring.
5. ‘Further action’ reports will be a compulsory agenda item at the next leadership meeting and will
remain on the ‘action points’ until the relevant action had been taken
Date: 3rd March 2014
Review Date: August 2015
Page 10
6. A brief report on the number and severity of the incident reports returned to be placed on the agenda
quarterly.
7. All incident reports are to be kept confidential and in safe storage for 5 years.
When should an incident form be filled in?
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Every time someone is injured and some form of intervention is required and the incident is reported
also in the accident book at each location.
When body fluid is required to be cleared - e.g. vomit, blood etc. but not when it is a toileting accident.
Significant danger arises e.g. fire, spillage of chemicals such a bleach
Any occasion where a volunteer ‘feels’ an incident should be recorded.
If someone has to be taken to hospital*
Who should fill in an incident form or accident book?
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The leader / person responsible for the activity or venue
Try and account for every person directly involved in the incident
IT MUST BE SIGNED BY THE LEADER – you may have it counter-signed by those involved to say you
have written a fair report
*If a child is taken straight to hospital without being returned to their parents OR if anyone is injured or taken
ill resulting in 3 days or more off work / school OR if there is an outbreak of a disease or food poisoning then it
MUST be reported to the health and safety executive within 7 DAYS of the incident. This is a LEGAL
requirement and we risk prosecution for failure to comply.
Contact the DEFA on 01624 685894 or e-mail ivan.bratty@gov.im
If the incident involves any young person (aged 17 and under) then the incident form MUST be passed to
Safeguarding Manager (Christine Turner) immediately. Please email filled in form or scanned copy. If Christine
is unavailable then the form should be sent to Safeguarding Administrator (Gary Kieswetter) immediately and
the local Safeguarding Co-ordinator informed.
Date: 3rd March 2014
Review Date: August 2015
Page 11
3(a) PROCEDURE FOR NEW VOLUNTEERS UNDER THE AGE OF 16 TO WORK
IN CHILDREN’S MINISTRY
If a volunteer under the age of 16 wishes to help in an area of children’s activities the procedure is as follows:
1. Each ministry leader is responsible for obtaining parental permission using the “Parental Consent
Form”. See appendix 1. This must be done prior to involving the individual in any form of helping.
2. The Parental Consent Form (appendix 1) is to be returned filled in by parent/guardian to the
appropriate ministry leader who will then forward form to the safeguarding co-ordinator at that
congregation. This is then sent on to the Safeguarding Administrator (Gary) to keep on file. The
safeguarding co-ordinator at that congregation then enters the details of the helper onto the database
noting that they are a helper and not a volunteer.
3. Until the age of 16, when Disclosure Barring Service (DBS) can be carried out, the volunteer is to assist
solely in a “helper role”. This means that they are never to be left alone with children and that their
presence is not taken into account in any ratio requirements. At all times they must work with a team
member with a completed DBS.
4. Once a helper reaches 16 it is the responsibility of the ministry leader to ensure that a Disclosure
Barring Service (DBS) application is completed by liaising with the Child Protection Co-ordinator at that
congregation.
5. The volunteer must then remain in a “helper role” until the DBS application is completed online or by
form and notification of such is given by the Child Protection Co-ordinator at your congregation (a list
of these are on each congregations notice board).
6. At that time the volunteer can become a full team member and be included in ratio requirements.
7. The volunteer MUST take the necessary safeguarding training at the earliest possible opportunity.
Training is not optional for volunteers over the age of 16. These sessions will be held at regular
intervals.
3(b) PROCEDURE FOR VOLUNTEERS OVER THE AGE OF 16 TO WORK IN
CHILDREN OR YOUNG PERSONS MINISTRY
BEFORE a volunteer over the age of 16 is able to help in any area of children or young people ministry or with
vulnerable adults the procedure is as follows:
1. It is the responsibility of the congregation safeguarding coordinator to ensure that the DBS application
is completed online. The first stage is to send the applicant the email with attached step by step guide
for online registration.
2. Online applications are our preferred option but you can receive a form from Safeguarding Manager
Christine Turner ( tel: 204468) which is returned to the Child Protection Co-ordinator by post (Christine
Turner, St Judes Lodge, Old Laxey Hill, IM4 7BZ ).
3. In addition to police vetting, references may, if deemed appropriate, be taken up by the Elders.
4. It is essential that until DBS clearance has been given any volunteer is to assist solely in a “helper role”.
This means that they are never to be left alone with children/young people and that their presence is
Date: 3rd March 2014
Review Date: August 2015
Page 12
not taken into account in any ratio requirements. At all times they are to work with a police checked
team member.
5. Once clearance has been received the Safeguarding Co-ordinator will notify the appropriate ministry
leader. At this stage the volunteer can become a full team member and be recognised within ratio
requirements.
6. The volunteer MUST take the necessary safeguarding training at the earliest possible opportunity.
Training is not optional and all volunteers must complete the training offered by the church, regardless
of any previous training. Ideally this should happen whilst awaiting police clearance.
3(c) HOW TO COMPLETE A DBS ONLINE APPLICATION
The volunteer will receive an email containing a link to the safeguarding website and a step by step guide of
how to fill in the application.
APPLICANT GUIDANCE NOTES
An online DBS check can be completed by accessing the internet from any PC/Laptop that has this facility.
Please be aware that you must complete your application form in full as part completed applications form cannot
be saved. With this in mind you should have the following information to hand before you start;
The dates of any changes of name, your addresses covering the last 5 years and the dates you lived there, your place
of birth and your National Insurance number (if applicable.)
LOGGING ONTO THE SYSTEM
Please enter the following address in the web browser:
https://disclosure.capitarvs.co.uk/cas
Please click on ‘Start Application’ in the orange box on the left hand side entitled ‘DISCLOSURE AND BARRING
SERVICE (DBS) APPLICATION’ to enter the system and start your application.
Please note at this stage of the process your login details are case sensitive.
1. Enter the Organisation Reference:BAP1300
2. Enter the Password : BAPTIST1300
Your application form will be processed by your organisation once they have verified your identity.
Next step - identity verification
In line with the DBS code of practice all applicants requiring a DBS check must have their identity verified.
The email from your safeguarding co-ordinator will confirm what items are required to verify your ID
Date: 3rd March 2014
Review Date: August 2015
Page 13
4(a) GOOD PRACTICE GUIDELINES
As followers of Jesus we want to welcome children and young people into our churches and give them time
and attention. All children and young people, whatever their age, gender, racial background, culture, or
disability, should have the opportunity to grow up safe from harm. As valued members of the church
community, they should be treated with respect, listened to and kept safe.
Many people say that good practice in this area of activity is just common sense. However, the variation in
what is considered to be common sense in child care terms is enormous. It is because of this that we define
good practice.
Good Practice – Minimum Ratios
Indoor Activities
Adult/child ratio (excluding helpers) must not be lower than the following:
• 0 - 2 years 1 volunteer: 3 children
• 2 - 3 years 1 : 4
• 3 - 5 years 1 : 8
• 5 - 8 years 1 : 8
• over 8 years 1 : 10
These ratios are always strictly enforced. There must always be at least 2 adults present, and if possible a
balance of gender. Best practice is also that these minimum two people should not be in a relationship.
It should be noted that the above are ratios of adults to children. On no account should a worker be by
themselves with this age group. The minimum number of adults should always be two and preferably three.
Eight years and over
• up to twenty children and/or young people, two adults (preferably one of each gender)
• one additional adult for every ten extra children and/or young people, or part thereof
Outdoor Activities
Under eight years
• 0 - 2 years 1 volunteer: 3 children.
• 2 - 3 years 1 : 4
• 3 - 7 years 1 : 6
Eight to thirteen years
The recommended ratios for children eight to thirteen and over are:
• up to fifteen children, two adults (preferably one of each gender)
• one additional adult for every eight extra children, or part thereof
Thirteen years and over
The recommended ratios for young people thirteen and over are:
• up to twenty young people, two adults (preferably one of each gender)
• one additional adult for every ten extra children, or part thereof.
Date: 3rd March 2014
Review Date: August 2015
Page 14
NO OF CHILDREN
AGE 0-2
NO OF HELPERS INDOOR
1 ADULT : 3 CHILDREN
1-3
2 minimum
NO OF HELPERS
OUTDOOR
1 ADULT : 3 CHILDREN
2 minimum
4-6
2
2
7-9
3
3
10-12
4
4
13-15
5
5
NO OF CHILDREN
AGE 2-3
1-4
NO OF HELPERS INDOOR
1 ADULT : 4 CHILDREN
2 minimum
NO OF HELPERS OUTDOOR
5-8
2
2
9-12
3
3
13-16
4
4
NO OF CHILDREN
AGE 3-8
NO OF HELPERS INDOOR
1 ADULT : 8 CHILDREN
NO OF HELPERS OUTDOOR
1 ADULT : 6 CHILDREN
1-8
2 minimum
2 minimum
9-16
2
3
17-24
3
4
25-32
4
6
NO OF CHILDREN
8-13
NO OF HELPERS INDOOR
1 ADULT : 20 CHILDREN
NO OF HELPERS OUTDOOR
1 ADULT:15 CHILDREN
PLUS 1 FOR EVERY 10 EXTRA
OR PART THEREOF
PLUS 1 FOR EVERY
8 EXTRA OR PART THEREOF
1-20
2 minimum
2 minimum up to 15
21-30
3
3 up to 23
31-40
4
4 up to 31
1 ADULT : 4 CHILDREN
2 minimum
5 up to 39
NO OF CHILDREN
13+
NO OF HELPERS INDOOR
1 ADULT : 15CHILDREN
NO OF HELPERS OUTDOOR
1 ADULT: 20 CHILDREN
PLUS 1 FOR EVERY
10 EXTRA OR PART THEREOF
1-20
2 minimum
2 minimum
21-30
3
3
31-40
4
4
Date: 3rd March 2014
Review Date: August 2015
Page 15
Good Practice – working boundaries
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In normal circumstances it is strongly advised that there should be a minimum of two adults working
with groups.
With groups of mixed gender it is advisable that there be both male and female workers at all times.
This is even more important when going off the premises. It is essential if you are staying away.
Do not be alone with a child. If that is not feasible leave a door open or two groups work in the same
room. If in any of the children/young people’s groups there are only one or two children in the room,
join with another class.
In our youth program there may be times when a youth worker is transporting a teenager of the same
sex to an agreed event or is having one on one time in a mentoring capacity with a young person of
the same sex. A written consent is required from a parent/guardian in order for this to happen. See
appendix 6
No person under the age of 16 should be left in charge of children of any age
Don’t invite a child or young person to your home alone.
Children and young people must not be given access to church premises unless responsible adults are
present.
At no time should one adult be alone on church premises with a child or group of children or young
people. Try to mix the sexes of adults if more than one is able to be present.
If possible ensure that the room where teaching or counselling is likely to take place have doors with a
glass panel and curtains are not closed.
Where confidentiality is important (e.g. personal counselling), and a child or young person is being
seen on their own ensure that the room has a door with glass in it. It is important to ensure that other
adults know of the interview and are on hand if it is necessary to be called upon. DO NOT promise
confidentiality. Record such interviews within 24 hrs. A copy should go to the appropriate site Coordinator and then to Safeguarding Manager for discussion.
Good Practice – the way we work
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Treat all children, young people and vulnerable adults with respect and dignity. Use age appropriate
language and tone of voice. Be aware of your body language and the effect you are having on the
individual.
Listen well.
Do not engage in any of the following:
o Invading the privacy of the child or young person when using the toilet or showering (However
the level of personal care must be appropriate to the age of the child and the needs of
vulnerable adults e.g disabilities)
o Rough games involving physical contact
o Sexually provocative games
o Making sexually suggestive comments
o Scapegoating, belittling, ridiculing, or rejecting a child or young person
Make sure another adult is present if, for example, a young child has soiled their underclothes and
needs to be thoroughly washed. If possible, the child’s own parent or carer should be called in to carry
out such a task.
Do not respond to excessive attention-seeking that is overtly sexual or physical in nature.
Nappy changes MUST be done by the parent only; unless permission has been given for the crèche
volunteer to change them.
If toileting is necessary the TEAM LEADER will nominate 2 carers to supervise the child – at least one
must be a TEAM MEMBER. NO ‘helpers’ are permitted to change nappies or take children out of the
room for drinks or toileting. All children must wash hands before leaving the toilet area and before
food and drink.
Date: 3rd March 2014
Review Date: August 2015
Page 16
Good Practice – Can I touch a child?
Physical contact between adults and children or young people must be discouraged where the child or young
person is on their own. The following is helpful:
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Keep everything public - a hug in the context of a group is very different from a hug behind closed
doors!
Touch should be related to the child’s or young person’s needs, NOT the adult’s.
Touch should be age appropriate and generally initiated by the child or young person rather than the
adult
Avoid any physical activity that is or may be thought to be sexually stimulating to the child or adult
Never, under any circumstances, touch a child or young person as an act of discipline
Good Practice – Transporting children and young people
Ensure that arrangements for transporting children are with the knowledge of others in leadership and of
parents/guardians. Try NEVER to have the driver and just ONE child e.g. think ahead if dropping children off so
that the last ‘drop’ will be two or more children.
In our youth program there may be times when a youth worker is spending some one on one time in a
mentoring capacity with a young person of the same sex and is transporting them alone. A written consent is
required from a parent/guardian in order for this to happen. See appendix 6.
When travelling NEVER carry more than the legal number in a vehicle or break the speed limit or commit any
other driving offence. Ensure that seat belt and booster seat regulations are followed (see appendix 5). Drivers
should check their insurance to ensure they are covered to transport children to an event etc.
Good Practice – Registration of children at church events (form attached in appendix 3)
All children and young people should be registered and parents/carer asked for details of full name, date of
birth, address and contact telephone number(s). Consent forms dietary considerations and a record of
allergies should be completed if children are being cared for in the absence of their prime carer whether on or
off church premises. Permission has to be obtained by prime carer when taken off church premises e.g. for an
outdoor session.
This information should be readily available to workers. Be aware that in some families, there are legal
constraints on contact with children by absent parents. If photographs for church publicity will be taken then
please have a permission request as a tick box on the consent form.
Good Practice – Abuse of Trust
It is always wrong for a leader to enter into a romantic relationship with a young person (defined as aged 1617). Such a romantic relationship (even if consensual) would not be a relationship of equal partners – the
leader is always in a position of power over the young person. Normally in these circumstances the leader
should cease either the leadership or the romantic relationship with the young person.
Good Practice – Health and Safety (see Risk Assessment Guide in section 4b)
Each Youth Ministry Leader is responsible for assessing the Health and Safety risks of the event that they are
running and mitigating those risks. Where appropriate training can be provided via the Safeguarding Coordinator or assistance can be provided from an experienced Health and Safety professional again through the
Safeguarding Co-ordinator. Particular areas to consider are:
Date: 3rd March 2014
Review Date: August 2015
Page 17
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Furniture
Equipment
Electrical
First Aid
Fire Equipment
Lighting
Travel
Accident and Emergency
Food Hygiene
Insurance
Security
Good Practice – looking after children overnight
This is an area potentially fraught with difficulties. It is impossible to lay down hard and fast rulings that will
cover every situation. However sensible precautions will minimise the risks for both workers and children and
young people. The Youth Ministry Leader should contact a Safeguarding Co-ordinator in advance, complete a
risk assessment (appendix 3) and mitigate those risks. Areas that should be considered include: sleeping
arrangements, boys/girls or boys and girls, Parent contact information, Medical information, insurance, fire
drills etc. See section 4(c) for further information. Risk assessments from outside agencies where activities are
taking place should be consulted and adhered to. Where LHCC’s policy exceeds this, then this should take
precedence.
Date: 3rd March 2014
Review Date: August 2015
Page 18
4 (b) Social Media Good Practice Guide
For the purpose of this Best Practice note, electronic communication includes contact with young
people via email, text messaging, social networking sites (eg Facebook, Twitter) and instant messaging
systems (eg whatsapp,viber, snapchat etc). Rule of thumb: Do not send offensive messages and be
careful what you download.
Introduction
As technology develops, the internet and its range of services can be accessed through various devices
including mobile phones, computers and game consoles. Although the internet has many positive
uses, it provides the key method for the distribution of indecent images of children.
Furthermore, social networking sites, chat rooms and instant messaging systems are increasingly been
used by online predators to ‘sexually groom’ children and young people. In addition, electronic
communication is being used more and more by young people as a means of bullying their peers.
All adults working with young people in church children’s and youth ministries are asked to adhere to
the following best practice guidelines.
General Good Practice
It is inappropriate for adult volunteers and staff to communicate on a one to one basis with children
under the age of 16 years by:
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text message
e-mail
instant messaging
or through social networking sites
All electronic communication by the above methods should include (where possible) a copy to a third
party, e.g. copy to the relevant safeguarding officer and /or the parent. Volunteers and staff should also
limit all electronic communication to youth and children’s ministry related matters. It is advisable to
always send a group message rather than single messages to one child.
All volunteers and staff should always behave responsibly and respectfully when online or texting.
They should not post or discuss unfavourable comments about other volunteers and staff, other youth
or, parents. Young people’s mobile phones should be turned off during a youth or children’s program
or event, except in the case where a phone is used as a contact number or for emergencies.
Text Messages
Text messages are NOT the preferred method of communication between adults and young people.
However where they are used, they should be group (bundled) messages and should always be copied
into the relevant safeguarding officer or youth worker/volunteer. In the event of an emergency,
individual texts may be used but again must be copied into the safeguarding officer or youth
worker/volunteer and parent.
Date: 3rd March 2014
Review Date: August 2015
Page 19
Instant Messaging Services
Whatapp, Viber, Skype, FaceTime, Snapchat and other instant messaging systems should not be used
by adults to communicate with young people under any circumstances.
Emails
Emails are a positive and simple method of communication between volunteers and staff and their
youth groups. Groups are easy to set up. Group emails are preferred, although in the case of an email
to one person, a copy must be sent to the relevant safeguarding officer or youth worker/volunteer.
Social Networking
Volunteers and staff should NOT have young people under the age of 18 as their ‘friends’ on social
networking sites when the primary reason for the relationship is church youth groups or events, and
they have a position of trust in relation to that young person.
Should a young person in your club request to become a named friend on your social networking page
or request that you become a named friend on their page you should decline if any of the below apply:
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You are in a position of responsibility in respect of that child.
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You hold a position of trust and responsibility in the youth group.
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Your contact with the child is through a youth group and the parent/guardian of the child does
not give their consent to such contact.
Volunteers and staff are advised to consider carefully what they post as some comments can be seen
by friends of friends. This also applies to comments left on other people’s pages and the sharing of
photographs. Consider your position as a role model in this area. The publishing of a photograph or
video footage on a social networking site is governed by the same requirements as any other media.
Church Facebook (or other social networking site) page
Groups using Facebook must only accept members of their youth groups as their online ‘contacts’ on
the Group Facebook (or other social networking site) page. This must be stated on the page and the
page must be set up for that reason. If a person leaves your youth group then they must be removed
from the group page.
Where youth groups and events operate a Facebook (or other social networking site) page links may be
made from the young person’s page to the church page but additional personal links between the pages
of adults and young people must not be created.
It is important that the sites privacy settings are set, ensuring that an outside person may not be able to
make contact with a young person by first gaining access via the churches social networking site.
Volunteers and staff are reminded that ALL social networking websites are restricted to people aged
13 years and over, this restriction must be adhered to. A suggestion may be for contacting 12 and
under young people on a FB page is to invite their parents to join to keep them in the loop.
Date: 3rd March 2014
Review Date: August 2015
Page 20
Reporting concerns
In the event of a child showing a volunteer or staff member a text or instant message, image or email
that is considered to be inappropriate for a child to have, the volunteer or staff member must inform
the appropriate safeguarding officer. If a young person is concerned with anything they have seen on
the internet they are advised to speak to their youth worker or safeguarding officer.
4 (c) RISK ASSESSMENT:
Explanation of Risk Assessment
What is a Risk Assessment? (See appendix 4 Risk Assessment Form)
A Risk Assessment is a systematic method of looking at work activities, considering what could go wrong, and
deciding on suitable control measures to protect people from harm or prevent loss, damage within our area of
responsibility. The assessment should include the controls required to eliminate, reduce or minimise the risks.
Who should carry out a risk assessment?
A risk assessment is needed for every activity carried out in the church involving children and young people. It
is the responsibility of the Ministry leader to ensure that a risk Assessment is completed well in advance of any
event and that routine activity e.g. Sunday morning kid’s ministry has a current Risk Assessment carried out.
The Risk Assessment once completed is kept by Ministry leader and a copy is given to the safeguarding coordinator at that congregation. At these routine activities it is advisable to review the Risk Assessment
annually and any changes sent to Ministry Leader and Safeguarding co-ordinator.
Decide who might be harmed?
 It is vital to clearly identify the person or group of people who are at risk
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Describe the hazard in words.
Identify the hazards and assess the risks
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A hazard is anything which might cause harm or any circumstance where a person might cause harm.
A risk is the likelihood and severity of the hazard.
Record your findings (on attached form in appendix 4) AND implement them.
The risk assessment is NOT the paperwork, the paperwork records the assessment and alerts the assessor to
the steps needed to reduce risk. It is the ACTIONS taken to manage the risk which are important, if an
assessment is recorded but not acted on this should be considered as negligence.
Review your assessment and update as necessary.
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For a static risk assessment (explained below) a date or dates should be fixed and on those dates a
physical review of the hazards should be carried out by ministry leaders.
For a dynamic risk assessment (explained below) these should be updated as and when necessary by
ministry leaders.
Static risk assessment
This is an assessment, primarily, of a building; something that once assessed does not significantly change
week to week. Normally the designated person will have an annual plan to review the building and surrounds
and a procedure for receiving updates and acting on the information.
Date: 3rd March 2014
Review Date: August 2015
Page 21
Dynamic risk assessment
This type of assessment focuses on things that move or change. This might be about moving people around
(off site activities, travel arrangements etc) or it might be a continually changing series of activities. This type
of assessment is far more challenging, involving substantial awareness balanced with common sense. The most
vital element in managing dynamic risk is to be constantly aware of "risk development". This is when the risk
changes from the point of writing an assessment to the end of the activity. Depending on the activity this
might be changing weather, changes in group dynamics, injuries, expectations of help not being met, hundreds
of subtle minuscule changes that can accumulate and have an enormous affect. During the activity constant
awareness of changing risk patterns, keen observation and a massive dose of serious common sense is more
important than a written assessment. The one last crucial skill is to know when to end an activity and when to
allow it to continue. Too soon and learning objectives are compromised, too late risks injury or even life.
4 (d) Living Hope Community Church Guidance notes for:
- Camping and Residential Trips
- Residential Settings
- Youth meetings at home
1. PREPARATION AND PLANNING
The Church and Safeguarding Office endorse the guidelines on preparation, risk assessment and ratios for
different activities stated in ‘Worth Doing Well’ p.140*. Plans for an event should always be discussed in
advance and endorsed by the ministry leaders and or the safeguarding co-ordinator.
*‘Worth Doing Well’ Guidance and Good Practice for Churches and Other Organisations.
Written by: Timothy J Bradshaw (Editor), Judy Jarvis, Michael Jebson and Wendy Ross-Barker
As part of preparation for a residential event, the group leaders, as well as both adult and teenage helpers
need to understand how to react to problem behaviour or to an incident or a disclosure. Group ground rules
and guidelines that apply in the normal church activities need to be revisited and modified if necessary in
preparation for a residential event.
Parental consent forms and pre trip information needs to include what will happen if a young person needs to
be sent/brought home.
2. STAFFING
Following the ratios in ‘Worth Doing Well’* (see section 4(a)) and carrying out a risk assessment should
establish the minimum number of adults required. All leaders should be DBS checked and trained in
safeguarding. Under 16’s are considered as helpers and cannot be counted in ratios described in section 4(a).
3. GENDER BALANCE OF LEADERS
It is highly desirable that in a mixed group there are leaders of each gender. Where this is not possible it may
be that back up can be provided in close proximity/at the event e.g. by resident staff or local helpers.
Consideration should be given to the provision of rest periods for leaders/helpers. The number of people
appointed for a particular residential activity (including camping and sleepover) should, therefore, always take
account of any pre-agreed rest periods and the needs of the leader/helpers. Leaders and helpers in residential
settings should all be appointed by the ministry leaders and have Enhanced criminal record Disclosures.
4. TRAINING
Leaders of residential and camping trips for children and young people in the church should have been trained
in Safeguarding within the last 5 years. When the church provides a specific course on residential issues and
camping a leader should have attended this.
Date: 3rd March 2014
Review Date: August 2015
Page 22
5. SLEEPING ARRANGEMENTS
Adults need to sleep in separate but adjacent sleeping quarters.
Attention needs to be given to adequate provision for each gender, together with those providing the
accommodation/site.
Separate sleeping areas need to be provided for each gender and age group (under 8’s, 8+, 13+) of children
and young people. Where this is not possible, arrangements need to be made to ensure adequate separation
of the age groups within the sleeping accommodation.
Attention needs to be given to safe access for the children/young people to adult leaders and to toilet facilities
during the night. Adequate preparation means that if a visit to accommodation is not carried out beforehand a
floor plan and a set of dimensions needs to be obtained. Where this is delegated to an event’s organiser (e.g.
soul survivor) discussion needs to take place regarding estimated numbers and group leaders as to the
adequacy of the accommodation offered. Responsibility for ensuring the adequacy of the accommodation to
be provided remains with the group leaders and churches.
Ensure that your own policy is followed and the event hosts are aware of this. Where they have a policy that is
contrary to or less stringent than this seek advice from the safeguarding manager but stick to your own policy
as the minimum standard. Your appointed leaders are acting on behalf of Living Hope for these children/young
people.
6. GROUPS THAT TAKE PLACE IN SOMEONE’S HOUSE
As with all other work with children & young people a risk assessment needs to be carried out (and regularly
reviewed). Attention needs to be given to suitable standards such as access, hygiene, ‘publicly’ available
materials, Internet access, and use of TV and DVD etc.
A home where a youth group is hosted (manse/other venue) should ideally have a downstairs toilet and a
separate living area. Attention needs to be given to adequate leadership ratios and gender balance. Leaders
need to have had relevant training.
7. COUPLES’ LEADING GROUPS EITHER IN THEIR HOME OR RESIDENTIAL EVENTS
Couples or close family members should not run a youth group in their own home without attention being
given to the following: –
- At least a third unrelated adult person/leader/helper attending every week.
- Meeting at an alternative venue with the unrelated host acting as a leader/helper
8. LONE WORKING
If there is a good reason for someone working alone with a child or young person (e.g. pastoral situation) this
should never take place in complete secrecy. Anyone working in such a situation should inform their ministry
leader or safeguarding co-ordinator of the time, date, venue, and reason for the planned meeting.
Arrangements for youth groups run in someone’s home, run by a couple or family should always be approved
by the Pastor, ministry leader or safeguarding co-ordinator.
In our youth program there may be times when a youth worker is spending some one on one time in a
mentoring capacity with a young person of the same sex. A written consent is required from a parent/guardian
in order for this to happen. See appendix 3.
The guidance given above is in relation to Guideline 2 of the Home Office Code of Practice should be followed
and meetings of this kind should wherever practicable take place in a public setting e.g. a café.
Date: 3rd March 2014
Review Date: August 2015
Page 23
4(e) CHECKLIST FOR CAMPING AND RESIDENTIAL TRIPS
1. Has the agreement of the church leadership or ministry leader been obtained as appropriate for this event?
2. Is the trip being planned in accordance with Safeguarding policy?
3. Has the accommodation been visited or a detailed scale plan/ layout (a church) been obtained of the
premises where the overnight stay is taking place in order to arrange suitable sleeping accommodation?
4. Have consent and medical forms been obtained for every child under 17?
5. Have sufficient staff been recruited for the size of the group including travelling and any facilitating hosts
where appropriate?
6. Have children and parents been briefed on adequate clothing or equipment to take, including expectations
on pocket money, mobiles, ‘Gameboys’ etc?
7. Have activities and travel arrangements been risk assessed?
8. Have all the key supervising leaders been DBS checked?
9. Is there at least one qualified First Aider; is the First Aid kit complete?
10. Is there adequate provision of food/ meals/ allowances for food?
11. Drivers should have a valid driving licences and adequate insurance cover for the event.
12. Is there an agreement among staff or have ground rules been agreed over what to do in the event that a
child needs to be taken home/ collected?
13. Have emergency contact numbers been made available to parents and children/ young people?
14. Have the volunteers and helpers been fully briefed about the safeguarding arrangements for the event?
15. Has a designated person been appointed to ensure its implementation?
16. Are there ground rules agreed by the entire group over behaviour including bullying, harassment or
appropriate boundaries?
17. Where other organisations are hosting obtain a copy of the organisation’s own safeguarding/ child
protection policy and risk assessments e.g. Soul Survivor, Capenray, SUMT Malmore weekends
Date: 3rd March 2014
Review Date: August 2015
Page 24
5(a) USEFUL CONTACT DETAILS
Chris Turner (Safeguarding Manager and Safeguarding
Co-ordinator – Ramsey)
204468
Trevor Kirk (Safeguarding Co-ordinator – Peel)
474032/842921
Sue Smith (Safeguarding Co-ordinator – Douglas)
459648
Carole Mosley (Safeguarding Co-ordinator – Port St Mary)
836018
Gary Kieswetter (Safeguarding Administrator)
200501
Church Elders
Jonathan Stanfield (Senior Pastor and Pastor in Douglas)
835091/454280
Chris Staples (Pastor- Douglas)
623035/460531
Rousseau Moss (Pastor – Port St Mary)
408127
Euan MacRae (Pastor – Peel)
498457
James Curtis (Elder – Peel)
323043
Adrian Porter (Pastor - Ramsey)
416209
Church Administrators
Katie Sutherland/Katy Aulton (Administrator – Port St Mary)
398390
Tiana Smith (Administrator - Douglas)
620321/408831
Alison Curtis (Administrator – Peel)
323043
Helen Edwards (Administrator – Ramsey)
460701
Churches Child Protection Agency – will give advice if main contacts are not available Tel: 0845 120 45 50
Social Services
Mon – Thurs 9.30am – 5.30 pm
Fri –
9.30 am – 4.30 pm
Tel: 686179 and speak with the Duty Social Worker
Out of hours & Bank holidays via Police Headquarters Tel: 631212
Useful Websites
DBS website
IOM Government
https://disclosure.capitarvs.co.uk/cas/
http://www.gov.im/categories/health-and-wellbeing/children-and-youngeradults/safeguarding-children-team-for-health-services/
IOM safeguarding Board http://www.isleofmanscb.im/
Date: 3rd March 2014
Review Date: August 2015
Page 25
CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES
Appendix 1: Parental Consent Form for under 16 year old helpers
Your child has volunteered to help in our children’s activities.
Which location will your child be based: (please tick one below)
Ramsey
_____
Port St Mary_____
Peel
______
Douglas
______
If you are willing for your child to help out in the children’s activities please sign below and return to
Safeguarding Co-ordinator, who will send a copy to Gary Kieswetter (Child Safeguarding
administrator).
Any person under the age of 16 helping is supernumerary to our rota and will be supervised by an
adult team member.
We hope that our young people enjoy helping out with the children’s activities and learn life skills
associated with this ministry.
I…………………………………………………………………….(parent/guardian) give permission for my
son/daughter…………………………………………………………………………..(name and date of birth) to be included as
a helper in the church’s children activities .
Signed………………………………………………………………
Date……………………………………………………
Address……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
Please return to:
Gary Kieswetter
Newlands
Cronk Lane
Cronk Rd
Union Mills
IM4 4JY
Mobile: 200501
Date: 3rd March 2014
Review Date: August 2015
Page 26
Appendix 2: Disclosure Report Form

The child's name, age and date of birth

The child's home address and telephone number.

Whether or not the person making the report is expressing their own concerns or those
of someone else.

The nature of the allegation. Include dates, times, any special factors and other
relevant information. Is this fact, opinion or hearsay.

A description of any visible bruising or other injuries. Also any indirect signs, such as
behavioural changes.

Details of witnesses to the incidents.
Date: 3rd March 2014
Review Date: August 2015
Page 27

The child’s account, if it can be given, of what has happened and how any bruising or
other injuries occurred. Please use the child’s own words.
Date: 3rd March 2014
Review Date: August 2015
Page 28

Have the parents been contacted? If so what has been said?

Has anyone else been consulted? If so record details.

If the child was not the person who reported the incident, has the child been spoken
to? If so what was said?
Date: 3rd March 2014
Review Date: August 2015
Page 29

Has anyone been alleged to be the abuser? Record details.

Where possible referral to the Police or Social Services should be confirmed in writing
within 24 hours and the name of the contact who took the referral should be
recorded. Please record details here.
Signed ______________________________________________
Date_________________________
Please hand this to your Safeguarding Co-ordinator, who will then copy and discuss this
with the Safeguarding Manager.
Date: 3rd March 2014
Review Date: August 2015
Page 30
Appendix 3
Incident Report for Living Hope Community Church
(see section 2(g) of safeguarding policy)
Date & Time
_______________________________________________________
Place of incident
_______________________________________________________
Name of Activity / Group
_______________________________________________________
People involved
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
Nature of Incident (use separate sheet of paper and attach as necessary)
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
Action Taken
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
Further Action Required
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
Signature ………………………………… Printed Name ……………………………………………
.................................................................................
Brief details of incident and action taken – tear on above dotted line and give to parents / carers
…………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………
Date: 3rd March 2014
Review Date: August 2015
Page 31
Appendix 4
Child Registration Form
Registration form for Living Hope Community Church
Children’s and Youth Work Program
Name of Child/Young Person: ______________________________________________
Date of Birth: ___________
Age: _______ Year of School: ______ Gender: M / F
Address: ________________________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Contact Phone Number: ______________________________________
Email:
Emergency Contact Number:
Does the child have any known allergies or medical needs?
If yes please give details:
Yes/No
Does the child have any additional needs?
If yes please give details:
Yes/No
Permission for outdoor activities as part of session:
Yes/No
Name of Parent/Guardian: ________________________________________
Signature ___________________________
Date_________________
Please tick if you DO NOT give permission for appropriate photographs to be taken and used
for promotional purposes for the children’s and youth work at Living Hope Community
Church.
Please return this form to the ministry leader of the children’s event. It will be kept on file at your
congregation for easy access by safeguarding team co-ordinator.
Date: 3rd March 2014
Review Date: August 2015
Page 32
Appendix 5 Risk Assessment Form
Date: 3rd March 2014
Review Date: August 2015
Page 33
Appendix 6 : Transporting children and young people in Cars
The law requires all children travelling in cars to use the correct child restraint until they are either
135 cm in height or the age of 12 (which ever they reach first) . After this they must use an adult seat
belt. There are very few exceptions, and the main ones are set out below.
It is the driver's responsibility to ensure that children under the age of 14 years are restrained correctly
in accordance with the law.
Children up to 3 years old
In the Front Seat
The child MUST use the correct child restraint.
It is illegal to carry a child in a rear-facing child seat in the front, which
is protected by an active frontal airbag.
In the Rear Seat
The child MUST use the correct child restraint.
In a licensed taxi or licensed hire car, if a child restraint is not available
then the child may travel unrestrained in the rear. This is the only exception for children under 3, and
has been introduced for practical rather than safety reasons. You should always think about ways to
make sure that a child seat is available.
It is the driver's legal responsibility to ensure that the child is correctly restrained.
Date: 3rd March 2014
Review Date: August 2015
Page 34
Children aged 3 and above, until they reach EITHER their 12th
birthday OR 135cm in height
In the Front Seat
The child MUST use the correct child restraint.
In the Rear Seat
The child MUST use the correct restraint, where seat belts are fitted.
There are three exceptions where there is not a child seat available. In
each case the child MUST use the adult belt instead. They are 1) in a licensed taxi or private hire vehicle;
2) if the child is travelling on a short distance for reason of unexpected necessity;
3) if there are two occupied child restraints in the rear which prevent the fitment of a third.
In addition, a child 3 and over may travel unrestrained in the rear seat of a vehicle if seat belts are not
available.
It is the driver's legal responsibility to ensure that the child is correctly restrained.
Children over 1.35 metres in height, or who are 12 or 13 years old
In the Front Seat
The adult seat belt MUST be worn if available.
In the Rear Seat
The adult seat belt MUST be worn if available.
It is the driver's legal responsibility to ensure that the child is
correctly restrained.
Passengers Over 14 years old
When travelling in the front or rear seat, an adult seat belt MUST be worn if available.
Date: 3rd March 2014
Review Date: August 2015
Page 35
It is the responsibility of the individual passenger to ensure that they are wearing the seat belt.
The above information can be downloaded from:
http://www.childcarseats.org.uk/law/
Appendix 7: Parental consent form for one to one
And for transporting a young person alone
Parental Consent Form for Child Being given lift home-alone
Child:
Name: ...............................
DOB : ...../......./.......
Address: ...................................................................................
..................................................................................................
Phone Number: ........................................................
Allergies / Medical info: ...........................................................
Parents/Guardians (emergency Contacts):
Name : .......................................................................
Work Hours Phone: ..........................................................
Home Phone: ...................................................................
Address: ..................................................................................
................................................................................................
Name : .......................................................................
Work Hours Phone: ..........................................................
Home Phone: ...................................................................
Date: 3rd March 2014
Review Date: August 2015
Page 36
Address: ..................................................................................
................................................................................................
I ........................................ Give Permission for .............................................. to give my
child a lift home alone to an arranged address at an arranged time or to carry out one to
one mentoring with my child.
Signature
Date
Date: 3rd March 2014
Review Date: August 2015
Page 37