Safeguarding Policy

Last updated: 16th September 2025

This is the safeguarding policy of Lark Park Limited.
In this document, “we”, “our” or “us” refers to Lark Park Limited.

We recognise our duty of care to safeguard and promote the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk. Therefore we are committed to safeguarding the welfare of all participants, freelancers, staff, volunteers and audiences in line with the core statutory legislation and guidance that apply in England.

1. Purpose

This policy sets out our approach to safeguarding, including how we:

• Protect children, young people and adults at risk from harm.
• Provide staff, freelancers and volunteers with clear guidance on their responsibilities.
• Ensure safe recruitment, training and reporting procedures.
• Foster a safe, inclusive environment for all our projects and performances.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

• All staff, freelancers, artists and volunteers engaged by Lark Park Limited.
• All activities including workshops, projects, productions and events.
• All participants, including children, young people and adults at risk.

3. Legal and Policy Framework

This policy is informed by the following legislation and guidance:

• Arts Council England: Culture and Creative Sector Safeguarding Guidance
• Care Act 2014
• Charity Commission Guidance: Safeguarding and protecting people for charities and trustees
• Children Act 1989 and 2004
• Children and Families Act 2014
• Data Protection Act 2018
• Equality Act 2010
• General Data Protection Regulation 2018
• Human Rights Act 1998
• Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE)
• Protection of Freedoms Act 2012
• Safeguarding Adults: The Role of Health and Social Care Workers
• Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006
• Working Time Regulations 1998
• Working Together to Safeguard Children 2018

4. Definitions

• Child/Young Person: Anyone under the age of 18.
• Adult at Risk: A person aged over 18 who has care and support needs and is unable to protect themselves from harm or exploitation.
• Abuse: Includes physical, emotional, sexual, financial, neglect, discriminatory and organisational abuse.

5. Safeguarding Principles

• Zero tolerance of abuse, neglect or exploitation.
• Empowerment: Supporting individuals to make informed choices.
• Prevention: Taking action before harm occurs.
• Proportionality: Responding appropriately to risks.
• Partnership: Working with statutory agencies, parents/guardians and communities.
• Accountability: Clear responsibilities and transparent procedures.

6. Roles and Responsibilities

• Lead Safeguarding Officer: Ashleigh-Ann — larkparktheatre@gmail.com
• First point of contact for safeguarding concerns.
• Responsible for reporting to statutory agencies.
• Deputy Safeguarding Officer: Chloe — larkparktheatre@gmail.com
• All staff, freelancers and volunteers must familiarise themselves with this policy, complete safeguarding training where necessary, and report concerns immediately.

7. Recruitment and Training

• Job descriptions which include safeguarding responsibilities.
• Enhanced DBS checks where appropriate.
• References verified before engagement where necessary.
• Mandatory safeguarding induction and refresher training where appropriate.

8. Code of Conduct

• Treat all participants with dignity and respect.
• Avoid inappropriate physical contact or personal relationships.
• Maintain professional boundaries.
• Never be one on one in an enclosed space with a child or adult at risk without another responsible adult present.
• Report concerns immediately to the Lead Safeguarding Officer.

9. Responding to Concerns

If a child or adult at risk is in immediate danger, call 999.

Otherwise:

• Recognise signs of harm or abuse.
• Respond by listening calmly and reassuring the individual.
• Report immediately to the Lead Safeguarding Officer (or Deputy if unavailable).
• Record the concern factually in writing, signed and dated.
• The Lead Safeguarding Officer will decide next steps, which may include contacting:
• Local Authority Children’s or Adult Safeguarding Services.
• Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO).
• Police (non-emergency: 101).

Confidentiality will be respected, but safeguarding concerns may be shared with statutory agencies when necessary.

10. Working with Children and Adults at Risk

• Obtain parental/guardian consent for under-18s.
• Use photography/recording only with written consent.
• Ensure venues are risk-assessed for safety and accessibility.
• Take extra care in projects dealing with sensitive topics.

11. Whistleblowing

Staff, freelancers or volunteers who raise safeguarding concerns in good faith will be protected from victimisation. Concerns about the Lead Safeguarding Officer should be raised directly with the Local Authority.

12. Monitoring and Review

• This policy will be reviewed annually by the Lead Safeguarding Officer.
• Safeguarding practice will be monitored through staff training, project evaluations and feedback from participants.

13. Key Contacts

• Lead Safeguarding Officer: Ashleigh-Ann — larkparktheatre@gmail.com
• Deputy Safeguarding Officer: Chloe — larkparktheatre@gmail.com
• West Sussex Safeguarding Children Partnership (WSSCP): 01403 229900
• West Sussex Safeguarding Adults Board (WSSAB): 01243 642121
• NSPCC Helpline: 0808 800 5000
• Childline: 0800 1111
• Police (emergency): 999
• Police (non-emergency): 101

14. Contact Us

If you have any questions about this policy, please contact:
Ashleigh-Ann — larkparktheatre@gmail.com