R&K Studio Studios Devon - Safeguarding Policy

Policy Title: Safeguarding Policy

Effective Date: 01/09/2025

Review Date: 01/0926 Policy Owner: David Knox. Fully DBS Checked & Studio Fully Insured.  

Applies to: All staff, volunteers, freelancers, contractors, and visitors

Place of Work; The Source Studios, Concorde House, South St Exeter EX1 1EG

1. Policy Statement

R&K Studios is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children, young people, and vulnerable adults who engage with our services. We believe that everyone, regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion or belief, sexual orientation, or identity, has the right to be protected from harm, abuse, and exploitation.

We recognise our responsibility to promote safe practices and protect those in our care from harm. This policy outlines our approach to safeguarding and provides a clear framework for all individuals working in or with the studio.
 

2. Legal Framework

This policy is based on and adheres to the following UK legislation and guidance:

• Children Act 1989 and 2004

• Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018)

• The Care Act 2014

• Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE)

• Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006

• Equality Act 2010

• Data Protection Act 2018 / UK GDPR
 

3. Definitions

• Child / Young Person: Anyone under the age of 18.

• Vulnerable Adult: An adult who is at risk of harm or exploitation due to age,

disability, illness, or personal circumstances.

• Abuse: A form of maltreatment, including physical, emotional, sexual abuse, neglect,

and exploitation.
4. Scope of Policy

This policy applies to:

• Studio recording sessions

• Music lessons or tuition

• Workshops and outreach events

• Online communication and sessions

• Performances involving young or vulnerable individuals
 

5. Responsibilities

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

• Name: David Knox

• Contact: davieknox@yahoo.co.uk

The DSL is fuill DBS Checked and can supp;ly a copy of the DBS Certificate on request. The DSL is responsible for:

• Ensuring all safeguarding concerns are reported, recorded, and acted upon

• Liaising with local safeguarding agencies

• Recommending training to other studio users

All Staff and Volunteers

All personnel must:

• Act in the best interest of the individual

• Report concerns immediately to the DSL

• Adhere to the studio’s code of conduct

6. Code of Conduct (See full Code of Conduct Document Here)

All staff, volunteers, and visiting professionals must:

• Treat all children, adults and vulnerable adults with respect and dignity

• Avoid physical contact unless absolutely necessary and appropriate

• Never be alone in a private, closed space with a child or vulnerable adult where there

is unmonitored space – for example, where there is no CCTV in operation or sharing a vehicle 

• Use appropriate language and avoid favouritism

• Maintain professional boundaries at all times

7. Safer Recruitment

R&K Studios will:

• Check the DBS status for all staff and volunteers working with children or vulnerable

adults – via the DBS update service or sight of physical copy of DBS

• Require proof of public liability

• Include safeguarding questions in interviews

8. Responding to Safeguarding Concerns

If someone is in immediate danger, call 999.

Reporting Process

1. 2. 3. 4. Listen without judgment or interruption.

Record the disclosure using the studio’s safeguarding concern form.

Report immediately to the DSL.

The DSL will assess and escalate to local authorities if necessary.

Contact Information:

• Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) on 0345 155 1071.

Mashsecure@devon.gov.uk

• LADO for DCC ladosecure-mailbox@devon.gov.uk

• NSPCC Helpline: 0808 800 5000

9. Online Safety

We recognise the increased use of digital tools and commit to:

• Using secure platforms for online sessions

• Ensuring a parent/guardian is aware of any online interaction with a minor

• Prohibiting private messaging between staff and minors without oversight

10. Data Protection and Confidentiality

All safeguarding records are stored securely and confidentially, in line with the UK GDPR.

Information will only be shared on a “need to know” basis and in accordance with statutory

guidance.

11. Whistleblowing

We encourage all individuals to report any concerns regarding the conduct of staff or

safeguarding procedures. R&K Studios will support and protect anyone who raises

concerns in good faith.

12. Policy Review

This policy is reviewed annually by the studio management team and updated in line with

any legislative or procedural changes.

Last Reviewed: 01/01/2025

Next Review Due: 01/01/2026