Bristol Films Child Protection Policy
Introduction
All organisations which make provision for children and young people must ensure that:
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The welfare of the child is paramount;
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All children, whatever their age, culture, disability, gender, language, racial origin religious beliefs and/or sexual identity have the right to protection from abuse;
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All suspicions and allegations of abuse will be taken seriously and responded to swiftly and appropriately;
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All members of the organization have a responsibility to report concerns to the appropriate nominated person.
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A child is defined as a person under the age of 18 (The Children Act 1989).
Good practice guidelines
All personnel should be encouraged to demonstrate exemplary behaviour in order to protect themselves from false allegations. The following are common sense examples of how to create a positive culture and climate.
Good practice means:
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Always working in an open environment (e.g. avoiding private or unobserved situations and encouraging open communication with no secrets).
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Treating all young people/disabled adults equally, and with respect and dignity.
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Always putting the welfare of each young person first, before winning or achieving goals.
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Maintaining a safe and appropriate distance with young people
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Building balanced relationships based on mutual trust which empowers children to share in the decision-
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Making the project fun, enjoyable and promoting fair play.
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Ensuring that if any form of manual/physical support is required, it should be provided according to health and safety child protection guidelines.
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Ensuring that adults should not enter children’s rooms or invite children into their rooms.
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Giving enthusiastic and constructive feedback rather than negative criticism.
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Recognising the developmental needs and capacity of young people avoiding excessive training and not pushing them against their will.
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Keeping a written record of any injury that occurs, along with the details of any treatment given.
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Informing parents or guardians and obtaining their authority for the young person to participate in the project
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