NORTH SUFFOLK YOUTH CHOIR

Safeguarding Policy

This purpose of this Safeguarding Policy is to ensure that every young member (ie child under the age of 18 years) of North Suffolk Youth Choir is safe and protected from harm.  It gives clear direction to all members of North Suffolk Youth Choir, including its Committee, regarding expected behaviour and legal responsibilities, as follows:

Roles & Responsibilities

1. North Suffolk Youth Choir recognises that the welfare of its young members is paramount. It will treat all young members with respect and will do everything reasonable to provide a safe environment for them whilst they attend rehearsals and events.
2. North Suffolk Youth Choir will appoint a competent Safeguarding Officer (SO) who has been CRB checked. Additional training will be obtained if deemed necessary.   The SO will respond to concerns and allegations promptly and appropriately and will also be a permanent member of the Committee. All members of the Committee undergo enhanced CRB checks.
3. All choir members are expected to share any concerns about the welfare of any young member with the SO.
4. When new members join or visiting musicians play on a temporary basis with North Suffolk Youth Choir, they will be informed of the safeguarding arrangements in place and be told who the designated SO is.
5. When a new member under the age of 18 enrols with North Suffolk Youth Choir, parents and carers will be informed of this safeguarding policy. Copies will be offered to parents and carers on request. 
6. The SO is responsible for:

o   Recording all safeguarding concerns, taking appropriate action and then monitoring each situation.

o   Ensuring that all members of North Suffolk Youth Choir are aware of his / her role and of the procedure for reporting concerns.

o   Attending Committee meetings where they will also represent the interests of young members.

Ethos

The North Suffolk Youth Choir will establish and maintain an ethos where the younger members (under 18 years of age) feel secure, are encouraged to talk and listened to.   

At all times members of North Suffolk Youth Choir will work in partnership and endeavour to establish effective relationships with parents and carers to promote an appropriate environment for young members.