Safeguarding Policy

1. Statement on safeguarding

Academy Learning works with a wide range of professionals and volunteers in education and faith/belief communities. As a business we are committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults, as well as protecting staff and people who come into contact with us from harm. Working with staff and consultants, we will :

  • ensure a safe and trusted working environment in meetings and online;
  • maintain an organisational culture that prioritises safeguarding, making it safe for people to report incidents and concerns;
  • have adequate, proportionate protocols and ensure they are kept up to date;
  • handle incidents promptly as they arise, reporting them to the relevant authorities where appropriate (see also whistleblowing policy).

2. Self-certification for senior executive

In line with Charity Commission, guidance, Academy Learning will use self-certification declarations for the CEO senior charity manager positions: automatic disqualification declaration (ODT, 17.1KB) and for new board members charity trustee positions: automatic disqualification declaration (ODT, 17.3KB).

3. DBS checks for consultants

Our Lead Consultants as well as the Online and Data Manager, may come into contact with children and young people via email. An appropriate combination of DBS checks, training, and a code of conduct should apply to Consultants, and the Online and Data Manager.

4. Safeguarding leads

Academy Learning has appointed Julie Arliss to be the safeguarding lead who is supported with training as required.

5. Protocols

What to do if you have concerns about possible abuse (including allegations):

  • In an emergency, call emergency services 999.
  • If you have concerns regarding a child or vulnerable adult, always consult children’s or adult care services.
  • Always inform Academy Learning Safeguarding Lead.
  • Keep a record of what happened, your concerns and your actions.
  • Concerns or allegations about an Academy Learning consultant or staff member must be reported to the safeguarding lead and CEO.
  • Concerns or allegations about the CEO must be reported to Tony Harvell

What to do if a child or adult wishes to disclose they have been abused

  • Listen. Keep listening. Do not question or investigate.
  • Do not promise confidentiality; tell them we need to share this.
  • Assure them they are not to blame.
  • Tell them what you are going to do and that they will be told what happens.
  • Make careful notes of what is said, record dates, times, events and when you are told.
  • Report it to the Academy Learning Safeguarding lead.
  • Only tell those who need to know.

Things to remember:

  • Treat everyone with respect, setting a positive example for others.
  • Respect personal space and privacy.
  • Ensure any actions cannot be misrepresented by someone else.
  • Challenge unacceptable behaviour.
  • Do not put anyone (including yourself) in a vulnerable or compromising situation.
  • Do not have inappropriate physical, verbal or online contact with others.
  • Do not ask for, accept, or keep personal email accounts or other contact details belonging to children.
  • You must not keep allegations or suspected abuse secret.

Approved by Academy Learning February 2022