Child Safeguarding Policy
Last updated: 23 December 2025
At The Art Loft, the safety and wellbeing of every child is our highest priority. We are committed to creating a safe, nurturing and inclusive environment where children feel respected, listened to and protected.
This policy outlines how we safeguard children attending our classes, workshops, parties and events.
1. Our Commitment
We are committed to:
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protecting children from harm, abuse and neglect
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promoting children’s health, safety and wellbeing
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acting in the best interests of every child
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working in partnership with parents, carers and relevant agencies
Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.
2. Scope of This Policy
This policy applies to:
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all children attending The Art Loft
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all staff, tutors, volunteers and contractors
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all activities, sessions and events run by The Art Loft
3. Legal Framework
This policy is informed by:
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Children Act 1989 & 2004
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Working Together to Safeguard Children (UK Government)
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Keeping Children Safe in Education (where relevant)
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UK GDPR & Data Protection Act 2018
4. Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)
The Art Loft has a designated safeguarding lead responsible for overseeing safeguarding practice and responding to concerns.
Designated Safeguarding Lead:
Name: [add name]
Email: hello@theartloft.uk
5. Safer Practice & Staff Responsibilities
All staff and educators:
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are DBS checked where required
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receive safeguarding awareness training
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follow clear professional boundaries
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never work alone with a child in an unsupervised setting
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use positive, respectful behaviour management
Physical contact is kept appropriate, minimal and only where necessary (e.g. reassurance or safety).
6. Recognising Safeguarding Concerns
Safeguarding concerns may include:
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physical abuse
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emotional abuse
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sexual abuse
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neglect
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inappropriate behaviour or language
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concerning changes in behaviour or mood
We take all concerns seriously, no matter how small they may seem.
7. Responding to a Concern
If a safeguarding concern arises:
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The concern is reported immediately to the DSL.
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Details are recorded accurately and confidentially.
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Where necessary, concerns are escalated to appropriate external agencies.
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Parents/carers are informed where appropriate and safe to do so.
We always act in the best interests of the child.
8. Confidentiality & Record Keeping
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Safeguarding information is treated as confidential.
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Records are stored securely and only accessed by authorised individuals.
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Information is shared strictly on a need-to-know basis.
9. Online Safety & Photography
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Photography or filming only takes place with parental consent.
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Children’s names are never used publicly.
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Online platforms are used responsibly and professionally.
10. Allegations Against Staff
Any allegation against a member of staff is taken seriously and handled in line with safeguarding procedures.
Appropriate action will be taken, including referral to external authorities where required.
11. Review of Policy
This policy is reviewed regularly and updated as required.
12. Contact
If you have a safeguarding concern or question, please contact: