Child Protection

We believe that the safety of children is paramount.  We have adopted a Child Protection Policy in line with guidelines set by East Hampshire District Council.  We ask all our hirers who have children among their users to follow our policy.

The policy is set out below : -

PETERSFIELD COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

CHILD PROTECTION POLICY 

PHILOSOPHY: Petersfield Community Association (PCA) believes that every young person, regardless of age or circumstance, has a right to be protected from harm and to feel safe and respected. 

PRINCIPLES:

•     To ensure that any activities organised or sponsored by hirers of accommodation provided by  PCA involving young people provide an environment where they feel secure and valued.

•     To require any regular or commercial hirer who has contact with children to have their own child protection policy and procedures in place.

•     To ensure that clear procedures are in place whereby signs of abuse can be recognised and appropriate actions taken

•     To ensure that procedures are in place for the protection of PCA employees and volunteer workers who are in contact with Young People.

PROCEDURES:

•     Have a nominated Child Protection Officer (CPO) who can be contacted by telephone.

•     Ensure that policies and procedures relating to Child Protection issues are in place in groups that children not accompanied by their parents/carers may attend .

•     Display prominently our philosophy, the name of the CPO and contact details as well as the contact details for NSPCC and Childline.

•     Ensure all employed staff and volunteers [other than those who only have infrequent contact with young people] have enhanced level Criminal record Bureau (CRB) checks and that their continuing suitability is monitored.

•     Follow guidelines laid down by OFSTED and EHDC code of Child Protection especially with regard to supporting young people, the recording and reporting of incidents.

•     Provide training opportunities relating to child protection issues.

•     Where appropriate to remind hirers of their obligations and responsibilities and the need for them to have effective child protection policies in place.

•     Our Policies and procedures will be monitored and reviewed by Trustees regularly.

Approved by Trustees on 15 February, 2006

Signed   B Jones        [Chairman]