BHJungle Child Protection Policy

CHILD PROTECTION POLICY AND PROCEDURE

A. POLICY
1. This policy applies to all workers (paid or voluntary) who come into contact with children in the course of their work for Balsall Heath Jungle .

2. All such workers should undergo a criminal record check.

3. All such workers should provide a reference, and all referees should be informed that the work involves contact with children.

4. Where our projects involving children are undertaken in partnership with other organisations such as schools, we will also co-operate with their child protection policies and procedures. Balsall Heath Jungle will inform such organisations of any concerns it has about particular children, or any accusations against its own workers, and record that it has done so.

5. Our workers, and the Management Committee member with child protection responsibility, will receive training in child protection issues.

6. Our workers will avoid situations where they are alone with one child and cannot be seen by other people. In general when working with children, two or more adults should be present.

B. PROCEDURE
1. Our workers are required to report to the Main Contact Person any concerns they have about a child who may have been abused or neglected by anyone.

2. All allegations of abuse or concerns about child protection will be taken seriously. They should be recorded immediately.

3. The co-ordinator of Balsall Heath Jungle (at present Chris Duggan) will be the Main Contact Person for all concerns about child protection. Any complaints concerning this person should be directed to the Chair of Balsall Heath Jungle, at present John Christophers (0121 449 0092), or to the Management Committee member with child protection responsibility. Workers who believe child protection is not being handled properly under this procedure should contact Social Services or the NSPCC.

4. Any Balsall Heath Jungle worker accused of abusing any child in any way will be interviewed as soon as possible by the main contact person or by the Chair. A record of the interview will be kept and signed by both parties present. The person accused may choose to attend the interview accompanied by a friend or representative. The police or social services will be informed immediately. The worker will be suspended while the matter is investigated. A record of all contacts with external authorities will be kept.

5. While the safety of children is paramount, care will be taken not to besmirch the reputations of workers, families, or carers while investigations are under way, by only sharing the concerns with those who need to know.

6. Any person found guilty of any form of child abuse will be dismissed and will be banned from working for Balsall Heath Jungle in a paid or voluntary capacity for life.

Last Modified 4/19/05 12:55 PM

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