When Blossom Comes Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy

Last updated: September 2024

1. Introduction

The safety and well-being of children and vulnerable individuals are of utmost importance to When

Blossom Comes. As a theatre company working with communities in London, we are committed to

creating a safe and inclusive environment for all participants in our programmes and activities.

This Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy outlines our commitment to preventing harm, abuse,

neglect, and exploitation. It also provides clear procedures for reporting and addressing

safeguarding concerns.

We prioritise the safety of all individuals, regardless of their age, disability, gender identity, race,

religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.

2. Policy Principles

a. Best Interests of Participants: The well-being and safety of all individuals involved in our work

will always be prioritised.

b. Zero Tolerance: We have a zero-tolerance approach to abuse, neglect, exploitation, or harm.

c. Shared Responsibility: All staff, volunteers, and associates of When Blossom Comes are

responsible for safeguarding and must adhere to this policy.

3. Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

We have appointed a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) who oversees the implementation of

this policy, responds to concerns, and ensures compliance with legal safeguarding requirements.

Designated Safeguarding Lead: Maddie Wakeling

Email: maddie.wakeling@yahoo.com

Help can also be sought from:

• NSPCC: 0808 800 5000

• Childline: 0800 1111

If the allegation is against the Safeguarding Lead, concerns should be reported to the co-director,

Fernando Solis at info@fernandosolis.com.

4. Reporting Concerns

a. Any individual who becomes aware of a safeguarding concern must report it immediately to the

DSL, Maddie Wakeling.

b. Reports will be handled sensitively and confidentially, following clear reporting and response

procedures.

c. If the concern involves the Safeguarding Lead, reports should be made to co-director

Fernando Solis.

5. Responding to Allegations of Abusea. When Blossom Comes will cooperate fully with relevant authorities in any safeguarding

investigation.

b. The safety and well-being of the individual involved will always be prioritised.

c. Any staff or volunteers subject to an investigation will be suspended from activities involving

children until the case is resolved.

6. Safer Recruitment

When Blossom Comes is committed to ensuring that all staff and volunteers working with children

and vulnerable individuals are suitable for their roles.

6.1 Screening: All staff and volunteers working directly with children will undergo vetting,

including reference checks and DBS clearance if required.

6.2 Training: All team members will receive safeguarding training and be required to adhere to our

policies.

6.3 Supervision: Volunteers and staff will be appropriately supervised and supported in

safeguarding responsibilities.

7. Code of Conduct for Working with Children and Vulnerable Individuals

All staff and volunteers must:

• Prioritise participant safety and well-being.

• Create an inclusive and respectful environment.

• Use equipment safely and appropriately.

• Report any safeguarding concerns immediately.

They must not:

• Engage in any inappropriate behaviour, including physical or emotional abuse.

• Develop inappropriate relationships with children or vulnerable individuals.

• Share personal contact details or social media accounts with participants under 18.

• Ignore or dismiss safeguarding concerns.

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8. Handling Allegations Against Staff or Volunteers

a. All allegations will be taken seriously and reported to the Safeguarding Lead, Maddie

Wakeling, immediately.

b. If an allegation involves potential harm or criminal activity, it will be referred to the appropriate

authorities.

c. If the allegation is against the Safeguarding Lead, it must be reported to co-director Fernando

Solis.

d. Affected individuals will receive appropriate support, and any necessary disciplinary actions will

be taken.

9. Diversity and Inclusion

When Blossom Comes is committed to:

• Treating all individuals fairly and without discrimination.

• Challenging prejudice and promoting inclusivity.

• Ensuring all voices are respected and valued in our creative processes.10. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains effective and in line with best

safeguarding practices.

For any safeguarding concerns, please contact:

Maddie Wakeling (Safeguarding Lead) – maddie.wakeling@yahoo.com

If the concern involves Maddie Wakeling, contact Fernando Solis (Co-Director) –

info@fernandosolis.com