Children's Activities Policy

This code of behaviour outlines good practice when working with children; (a) to minimise the situations where abuse of children may occur, (b) to safeguard children from harm, and (c) to prevent teachers, musicians and helpers from being placed in vulnerable situations.

Child protection and Procedures (Nov 03) is available at HQ.

This document is also available in PDF format.

CODE OF PRACTICE 2001/2

1. The RSCDS takes all reasonable steps to ensure through relevant procedures that children taking part in its activities do so in a safe and secure environment.
2. Each Branch is advised to appoint a Youth Co-ordinator who should be available for consultation by teachers and parents about the organisation and conduct of the Branch's activities for children.
3. Only teachers and musicians and helpers who are known and trusted should be appointed to children's classes. They should be asked to confirm in writing that they know of no reason why they should not work with children. Although police checks are not mandatory for the voluntary sector at present, at any time such a check may be run.
4. Teachers are in a position of trust. They must respect a child's right to personal privacy. They should guard against words and actions that could be misunderstood or cause offence. The use of offensive language and behaviour by children should not be tolerated. As SCD is a physical skill, occasional physical contact between teacher and student may be unavoidable. The teacher should ask permission from the child and avoid unnecessary or inappropriate physical contact.
5. Activities for children should be planned on the basis that more than one responsible adult will be present for the duration of the activity. All activities should be conducted in an open manner, where the adult can be observed by others.
6. Children's activities should take place at venues that are safe for the purpose.
7. Appropriate arrangements should be in place for receiving children at the venue and for ensuring that they are collected after the event.
8. If activities are planned away from the usual venue, parental approval in writing should be obtained.
9. Teachers concerned about the continuing well-being of a child in their class should record the facts and report them to the appropriate local authority. Teachers must report the facts and must not initiate any investigation. The confidentiality of all parties should be recognised and information handled on a need to know basis.
10. Any allegations regarding a teacher, musician or helper should be reported to the Youth Co-ordinator who should try to ensure that no-one is placed at further risk and, if circumstances demand, then refer the matter to the relevant local authority.

Insurance

The teacher should ensure that they are personally covered for personal indemnity and liability

Dealing with Suspicions

Should you have a case where you suspect a child, young person or vulnerable adult may have been harmed it is important to keep careful records of all the evidence, communication and actions. Refer it (confidentially) in the first instance to the:

• The local Social Work Department Emergency Service or Child Protection Unit

or

• The local Police

The Youth Committee has drawn up this Code of Practice to meet the Government guidelines for organisations involved in the care of young people. It is intended to protect children and those in a position of trust who are running events for children. It was compiled following consultation with several youth organisations. The code is based on practical common sense measures which the majority of Branches involved in children's activities already follow. Branches requiring advice on the conduct of children's activities should consult the Youth Committee.

Revised September 2001