Unite Stage Academy UK
Safeguarding Children Policy and Procedures

Academic Year 2025/2026
Signed by all staff and volunteers.

Unite Stage Academy UK is committed to safeguarding the welfare of every child and young person entrusted to our care, ensuring a safe environment for all. A child or young person refers to anyone under the age of 18 participating in our activities. Parents/guardians are responsible for ensuring their child is handed over to a teacher on site. All students must be picked up and are not allowed to wander out of the building without a parent/guardian. If a parent allows their child to walk/take a bus, Unite Stage Academy must have this in writing.

Key Principles

• The welfare of the child is always the paramount consideration.

• All children have the right to be protected from abuse, regardless of age, gender, disability, race, sexual orientation, faith, or belief.

• All suspicions and allegations of abuse will be taken seriously and dealt with swiftly and appropriately.

• Collaboration with other organizations, children, young people, and parents/carers is essential.

We believe that every child participating in singing, dance, or drama should enjoy a safe and supportive environment, free from harm. It is the duty of every adult at our academy to uphold this responsibility.

Safeguarding Responsibilities

Unite Stage Academy UK is committed to protecting children from physical, sexual, or emotional harm, as well as neglect or bullying. Our Safeguarding Children Policy applies to everyone involved in our academy, whether in a paid or voluntary capacity.

Recruitment and Vetting

We follow responsible recruitment guidelines and require:

• Clear role descriptions and responsibilities.

• Verification of identity, Enhanced DBS Disclosure, and Public Liability Insurance.

• A meeting/interview process before appointment.

• Ongoing checks for members regularly working with children.

If concerns arise regarding an individual’s suitability, we will seek guidance from appropriate governing bodies, including Local Authorities. Decisions will be made in the best interests of children and young people.

Unite Stage Academy UK seeks to prevent individuals with a history of relevant offenses from working with children, ensuring their safety and minimizing the risk of grooming.

Welfare Officer

A designated Welfare Officer, trained in UK Safeguarding and Protecting Children, is the first point of contact for any concerns regarding child welfare. The officer follows proper referral procedures and escalates issues as necessary. Please refer to the school’s Principal for further guidance.

Bullying Policy

Bullying in any form is not tolerated at our academy. Any incidents should be reported to the Welfare Officer, and serious cases will be addressed through disciplinary procedures.

Reporting Concerns

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. If you have concerns about a child’s welfare, report them immediately—inaction is not an option.

• For poor practice concerns: Report to the Welfare Officer (Miss Maria), who will address the matter or seek external guidance.

• For serious concerns (suspected child abuse): Contact the Local Authority first, then immediately notify the Police or Children’s Services. If medical attention is needed, take the child to a hospital or call an ambulance, informing them of a child protection concern. Inform the Welfare Officer, who will notify relevant authorities.

Emergency Contacts:

• Local Safeguarding Children’s Board: 01202 458873

• Police: 01202 222222

• NSPCC 24-Hour Helpline: 0808 800 5000

For verification of DBS checks, first aid certificates, or insurance policies of our faculty members, please contact us via email.