Child Protection Policy

Every child deserves the opportunity to grow up in a safe, caring and supportive environment. Widest Heart Love Foundation is committed to protecting the children we support and those we come into contact with through our work.

Scope

This policy applies to all trustees, staff, volunteers, contractors and partners, and covers every child (any person under the age of 18) involved in or affected by the Foundation’s activities.

Our standards

• We work with and through families, guardians, communities and appropriate partners rather than around them.
• We obtain the consent of a parent or guardian before a child takes part in a programme or activity.
• Adults acting for the Foundation do not spend time alone and unsupervised with a child.
• All contact with children is appropriate, respectful and in the child’s best interests.

Recognising and reporting abuse

Everyone involved with the Foundation should be alert to signs that a child may be at risk of neglect or physical, emotional or sexual abuse. Any concern must be reported immediately to the Foundation’s designated safeguarding contact and, where a child is at immediate risk, to the emergency services.

Responding to a concern

Concerns are recorded, handled sensitively and confidentially, and referred to the relevant child protection authorities. We do not investigate suspected abuse ourselves.

Safer recruitment

We carry out appropriate checks, references and induction for anyone in a role involving contact with children.

Images and information about children

We seek consent before photographing a child or sharing their story, we never publish information that could put a child at risk, and we store records about children securely.

Review

This policy is reviewed regularly and updated in line with good practice.