safeguarding policy

1. Policy Statement

At The Cali Lab, the safety and wellbeing of every participant—especially children and vulnerable individuals—is our highest priority. This safeguarding policy outlines our commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all participants, staff, and visitors.

We work with individuals aged 6 and above and recognize our duty of care to protect children and vulnerable adults from harm, abuse, and exploitation.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

  • All staff members, including coaches, assistants, and administrative personnel

  • Volunteers and third-party providers

  • Any person involved in the delivery of sessions, events, or activities under the name of The Cali Lab

  • All participants under our care, including children and vulnerable adults

3. Key Principles

  • The welfare of the child or vulnerable person is paramount.

  • All individuals, regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, or sexual orientation, have the right to protection from abuse.

  • All concerns and allegations of abuse will be taken seriously and responded to appropriately.

  • We work in partnership with parents/carers, local authorities, and other agencies to promote child and adult safeguarding.

4. Responsibilities

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL):
Terry Encarnacion
The DSL is responsible for:

  • Managing safeguarding concerns and referrals

  • Providing training and support to staff

  • Maintaining confidential records of any safeguarding issues

All staff are responsible for:

  • Understanding and following this policy

  • Reporting any safeguarding concerns immediately to the DSL

5. Safer Recruitment

We implement safe recruitment practices including:

  • Enhanced DBS checks for all staff and volunteers working with minors

  • References and employment history checks

  • Safeguarding induction and regular training

6. Code of Conduct

All staff and volunteers must:

  • Treat all individuals with respect and dignity

  • Avoid being alone with a child or vulnerable person unless in an emergency or with prior consent

  • Use appropriate language and behaviour at all times

  • Report any concerns or breaches of conduct

7. Recognizing Abuse

Staff will be trained to identify signs of:

  • Physical abuse

  • Emotional abuse

  • Sexual abuse

  • Neglect

  • Bullying or harassment

8. Reporting Procedures

If a safeguarding concern arises:

  1. Report it immediately to the DSL.

  2. Record details factually, including names, dates, times, and what was said or observed.

  3. The DSL will determine if a referral to external agencies (e.g., social services or police) is required.

  4. Confidentiality will be maintained but never at the expense of a person’s safety.

9. Online Safety

For any digital platforms (e.g., social media, training apps, or video calls):

  • Parental consent is required for under-18s.

  • Coaches must not communicate privately with minors online.

  • Content must be age-appropriate and safe.

10. Consent and Confidentiality

  • Parental consent is required for under-18s participating in classes or being photographed.

  • All personal data is handled in accordance with GDPR.

11. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or after a safeguarding incident. Staff and stakeholders will be informed of any updates.