Child Protection

 

Glasgow Music Theatre acknowledges the duty of care to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and is committed to ensuring safeguarding practice reflects statutory responsibilities, government guidance and complies with best practice.

The policy recognises that the welfare and interests of children are paramount in all circumstances. It aims to ensure that regardless of age, gender, religion or beliefs, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or socio-economic background, all children

 have a positive and enjoyable experience at Glasgow Music Theatre in a safe and child centred environment

 are protected from abuse whilst participating in productions with Glasgow Music Theatre or outside of the activity.

 

Glasgow Music Theatre acknowledges that some children, including disabled children and young people or those from ethnic minority communities, can be particularly vulnerable to abuse and we accept the responsibility to take reasonable and appropriate steps to ensure their welfare.

As part of our safeguarding policy Glasgow Music Theatre will

 promote and prioritise the safety and wellbeing of children and young people

 ensure everyone understands their roles and responsibilities in respect of safeguarding and is provided with appropriate learning opportunities to recognise, identify and respond to signs of abuse, neglect and other safeguarding concerns relating to children and young people

 ensure appropriate action is taken in the event of incidents/concerns of abuse and support provided to the individual/s who raise or disclose the concern

 ensure that confidential, detailed and accurate records of all safeguarding concerns are maintained and securely stored

 prevent the employment/deployment of unsuitable individuals

 ensure robust safeguarding arrangements and procedures are in operation.

 

The policy and procedures will be widely promoted and are mandatory for everyone involved in Glasgow Music Theatre. Failure to comply with the policy and procedures will be addressed without delay and may ultimately result in dismissal/exclusion from the organisation.

 

Monitoring

The policy will be reviewed a year after development and then every three years, or in the following circumstances:

 changes in legislation and/or government guidance

 as a result of any other significant change or event.

 

 

Code of conduct for staff and volunteers

 

Glasgow Music Theatre staff and volunteers involved in theatre for children and young people have a great opportunity to be a positive role model and help build an individual’s confidence.

 

Staff and volunteers are expected to:

 Ensure the safety of all children by careful supervision, proper pre-planning of rehearsals, using safe methods at all times.

 Consider the wellbeing and safety of participants before the development of performance.

 Encourage and guide participants to accept responsibility for their own performance and behaviour.

 Treat all young people equally and ensure they feel valued. Have no favourites.

 Encourage all children not to discriminate on the grounds of religious beliefs, race, gender, social classes or lack of ability.

 Not allow any rough or dangerous play, bullying, or the use of bad language or inappropriate behaviour.

 Appreciate the efforts of all young people and not over-exert the young people. Never exert undue influence over performers to obtain personal benefit or reward.

 Be positive, approachable and offer praise to promote the objectives of the club at all times.

 Not let any allegations of abuse of any kind to go unchallenged or unrecorded if appropriate. Incidents and accidents to be recorded in the club incident/accident book. Parents will be informed.

 Report accidents or incidents of alleged abuse or poor practice to the producer.

 Administer minor first aid in the presence of others and where required refer more serious incidents to the club "first aider".

 Have access to telephone for immediate contact to emergency services if required.

 Foster team work to ensure the safety of youth members in their care.

 Ensure the rights and responsibilities of youth members are enforced.

 Not abuse members physically, emotionally or sexually.

 Not engage in a sexual relationship with a young person for whom they are responsible

 Maintain confidentiality about sensitive information.

 Respect and listen to the opinions of young people.

 Take time to explain teaching techniques to ensure they are clearly understood.

 Develop an appropriate working relationship with participants, based on mutual trust and respect.

 Be a role model, displaying consistently high standard of behaviour and appearance (disciplined/committed/time keeping), remember children learn by example.

 Refrain from smoking and consumption of alcohol during rehearsals where children are present.

 Never condone rule violations, rough play or the use of prohibited substances.

 not spending excessive amounts of time alone with children excluded in exceptional circumstances

 Never taking children to their home

 Not administering First Aid involving the removing of children’s clothing unless in the presence of others.

 Hold appropriate valid qualifications and insurance cover.

 Make the activity fun.

 

Staff and volunteers have the right to:

 Access on-going training and information on all aspects of leading/managing activities for youths, particularly on safeguarding.

 Support in the reporting of suspected abuse.

 Access to professional support services.

 Fair and equitable treatment by the organisation.

 Be protected from abuse by children/youths, other adult members and parents.

 Not to be left vulnerable when working with children.

 

Any misdemeanours and general misbehaviour will be dealt with immediately and reported verbally to the designated person. Persistent breach of the code will result in dismissal from Glasgow Music Theatre. Dismissals can be appealed by the coach/volunteer with final decisions taken by the producer

 

Emergency action and first aid:

All staff and members should be prepared with an action plan in the event of an emergency and be aware of our First Aid Procedures. This will include:

 

 Access to First Aid equipment

 Telephone contact if the participant is a minor

 Telephone contact to the Emergency Services