The Voice Hub – Child Protection & Safeguarding Policy

1. Purpose of this Policy

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that The Voice Hub provides a safe, positive and supportive environment for all children attending its singing sessions. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and young people, and we expect everyone involved in the club to share this commitment.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all sessions and activities run by The Voice Hub, all children and young people participating (currently Key Stage 2, ages 7–11), and the club leader and any future assistants, volunteers, or contractors.

3. Our Safeguarding Commitment

• The welfare of the child is paramount.
• All children have the right to protection from abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
• All concerns about a child’s safety will be taken seriously and responded to appropriately.
• The Voice Hub will work in partnership with schools, parents/carers, and local safeguarding authorities when concerns arise.

4. Responsibilities

The Club Leader (Designated Safeguarding Lead), Sophie Studd, is responsible for implementing this policy, maintaining safeguarding awareness, and reporting any concerns. Future staff or volunteers will be required to complete enhanced DBS checks and receive safeguarding guidance before working with children.

5. Safe Recruitment

When additional staff or volunteers are appointed, The Voice Hub will ensure enhanced DBS checks are carried out, references are obtained where relevant, and all new helpers receive a briefing on safeguarding responsibilities.

6. Code of Conduct

All adults working with children must treat every child with respect, act as positive role models, maintain appropriate boundaries, avoid being alone in a closed space with a child, and report any concerns immediately.

7. Responding to Safeguarding Concerns

If a safeguarding concern arises:
1. Listen carefully and reassure the child.
2. Record what was said using the child’s own words.
3. Report the concern immediately to the appropriate authority.
4. Do not promise confidentiality.

8. Reporting and Contact Information

If a child is in immediate danger, call 999.

Bracknell Forest Council Children’s Social Care: 01344 352005 (Mon–Fri) | Emergency Duty Team: 01344 786543
Wokingham Borough Council Children’s Safeguarding Team: 0118 908 8002 (Mon–Fri) | Out of Hours: 01344 786543

9. Confidentiality and Record Keeping

All safeguarding records and children’s emergency contact details will be kept securely and confidentially, in line with Data Protection law. Information will only be shared on a need-to-know basis.

10. Partnership with Schools

The Voice Hub operates within school premises and will work closely with each school’s Designated Safeguarding Lead to ensure all safeguarding measures align with the school’s policy.

11. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually, or sooner if there are changes in legislation, staffing, or safeguarding guidance.

Date of issue: October 2025
Next review due: October 2026

Signed: Sophie Studd – Club Leader / Designated Safeguarding Lead
The Voice Hub