SAFEGUARDING CHILDREN AND YOUNG ADULTS

We believe that safeguarding and protecting children and young adults is the individual and collective responsibility of everyone working in or visiting the organisation. Our policy recognises that the welfare and interests of children and young adults are paramount in all circumstances.  We are committed to ensuring our safeguarding practices reflect statutory responsibilities, government guidance and comply with best practice.

For mentor’s and mentees, this policy applies for the duration of a young person’s participation on the Creative Mentor Network programme. For Creative Mentor Network staff and volunteers, it applies for the entirety of their post. For the avoidance of doubt, should a mentor and mentee elect to remain in contact following the end of the programme, then they do so at their own risk and outside the scope of Creative Mentor Network’s responsibility.

Policy purpose and guidance

This policy states Creative Mentor Network’s commitment in relation to Safeguarding children and young adults and gives guidance on:

• What Creative Mentor Network staff or volunteers should do if they think a child/young person they are working with has raised a safeguarding disclosure or a safeguarding incident occurs. [See Appendix 1]

• What the organisation will do to ensure that employees, whether paid staff or volunteers, do not pose a risk to children and young adults.

• How Creative Mentor Network procedures work alongside other local agencies.

Terminology 

A child/children is any individual under the age of 18. Young adults are people aged 18 to 27. 

Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young adults is: 

• Protecting children / young adults from maltreatment

• Preventing impairment of children’s / young adult’s health or development

• Taking action to enable all children / young adults to have the best outcomes

• Promoting the freedom and dignity of the person who has experienced or is experiencing abuse

• Promoting the rights of all people to live free from abuse and coercion

• Ensuring the safety and well-being of people who do not have the capacity to decide how they want to respond to abuse that they are experiencing

• Managing services in a way which promotes safety and prevents abuse

• Recruiting staff and volunteers safely, ensuring all necessary checks are made

• Providing effective management for staff and volunteers through supervision, support and training

Staff Responsibilities

The Designated Safeguarding Lead is the person with the overall responsibility of ensuring the organisation’s Safeguarding Children and Young Adult Policy is implemented and ensures that the policy and procedures are kept up to date and are applied consistently. The Designated Safeguarding Lead possesses a  ‘Designated Safeguarding Lead (Level 3)’ certificate which is to be renewed every 3 years.

The Deputy Safeguarding Lead is the person who will have the role of the Designated Safeguarding Lead when they are not contactable or available. The Deputy Safeguarding Lead possesses a  ‘Designated Safeguarding Lead (Level 3)’ certificate which is to be renewed every 3 years.

Creative Mentor Network’s Designated Safeguarding Lead & Deputy are:

Natasha Khan, Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

e-mail: natasha@creativementornetwork.org

Mobile: 07748720226

Frena Russom Deputy Safeguarding Lead

e-mail: frena@creativementornetwork.org

Mobile: 07506421168

In the absence of the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) or Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (or where safeguarding concerns relate to actions of the DSL or Deputy DSL), trustees can be contacted in regards to a safeguarding incident:

Jo Kani, Trustee & Interim Chair

e-mail: safeguarding@creativementornetwork.org

Ryan Johnson, Safeguarding Trustee

e-mail: msgryan@icloud.com

All staff and volunteers have a responsibility to safeguard the welfare of children and young adults with whom they work and to respond to any concerns about safeguarding. All staff  and volunteers should study this policy and ensure that they are clear about what they should do if they have any concerns about disclosure of abuse from a child/young adult.

 See Appendix 1 for more details.

Relevant Legislation

Creative Mentor Network is committed to the definition ‘safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young adults’. This policy is written with regard to the following documents: 

• Working Together to Safeguard Children (2023) 

• What to Do If You’re Worried a Child Is Being Abused (2015)  

• The Children Acts (1989 and 2004)

• Care Act (2014)

• Counter Terrorism and Security Act (2015) 

• Prevent Duty and Guidance (2023) 

• London Multi Agency Adult Safeguarding Policies and Practice (2019)

• Keeping Children Safe In Education (2023)

Our policy recognises that the welfare and interests of children and young adults are paramount in all circumstances.

As part of our Safeguarding policy Creative Mentor Network will: 

• Promote and prioritise the safety and wellbeing of children and young adults .

• Ensure all adults working with children understand their roles and responsibilities in respect of safeguarding and are provided with appropriate learning opportunities to recognise, identify and respond to signs of abuse, neglect and other safeguarding concerns relating to children and young adults.

• Ensure appropriate action is taken in the event of incidents/concerns of abuse and support is provided to the individual/s who raise or disclose the concern. 

• Ensure that confidential, detailed and accurate records of all safeguarding concerns are maintained and securely stored. 

• Prevent the employment of unsuitable staff and volunteers using safer recruitment practices.

• Ensure robust safeguarding arrangements and procedures are used effectively.
   

Safer Recruitment Procedures

• To ensure appropriate recruitment we shall ensure that all safer recruitment procedures are undertaken including appropriate pre-employment, selection, vetting and identity checks.  

• All adults involved in Creative Mentor Network, who have access to children must be subjected to appropriate vetting DBS checks in respect of their suitability to work with children. Before starting work with children, either in a voluntary or non-voluntary position, a DBS must be in place. Staff and volunteers working directly with children will receive an Enhanced DBS check. Staff and volunteers who do not work directly with children will receive a Standard DBS check.

• We have a three-year renewal policy on DBS checks for all staff, volunteers and trustees.

• All new members of staff and volunteers are provided with a copy of this policy, the Code of Conduct (contained within Creative Mentor Network’s Mentor Training Booklet) and the Charity Commission Guidance on Safeguarding of Children, linked here.  

• All new staff and volunteers will have a meeting with the Safeguarding Lead to discuss the Code of Conduct and Creative Mentor Network's procedures for child safeguarding and child protection.  All staff and volunteers will be asked to acknowledge their understanding of their obligations in relation to safeguarding by signing a declaration.

• Staff and volunteers should conduct themselves with children and young adults in a way that is mindful of this policy. 

• As a general rule, staff and volunteers should avoid situations where they are on their own with a child or young person and, in such situations, plan ahead and signal the arrangement with another member of staff. Avoid last-minute or informal arrangements for one-to-one meetings.  Staff and mentors working with children should not give lifts in cars to children, particularly one-to-one, other than in an emergency, where another member of staff, preferably the Safeguarding Lead, should be informed.

• In order that staff and volunteers do not place themselves or children at risk of harm or of allegations of harm, staff and volunteers should seek immediate advice from the Safeguarding Lead or Deputy Safeguarding Lead if a child's interaction with you seems inappropriate or out of the ordinary.

• Though Trustees are not directly mentioned in the above bullet points (as they are unlikely to interact with children or young adults taking part in Creative Mentor Networks programming), they are nevertheless required to follow the procedures as and when necessary. All Creative Mentor Network Trustees receive a DBS check.

• These policies and procedures will be widely promoted. Failure to comply with the policy and procedures will be addressed without delay and may ultimately result in disciplinary action, and dismissal/exclusion from the organisation. 

Entitlement 

Creative Mentor Network acknowledges that some children and young adults, including those who are disabled and those from ethnic minority communities, can be particularly vulnerable to abuse and we accept the responsibility to take all reasonable and appropriate steps to ensure their welfare. The Creative Mentor Network policy aims to ensure that regardless of age, gender, race, ethnicity, religion or beliefs, sexual orientation and socio-economic background, all persons are protected appropriately. If there are any concerns contact the Safeguarding Lead immediately.

Adult Responsibilities 

Adults working with children and young adults as part of Creative Mentor Network have a duty to: 

• Understand, adopt, adhere to and implement the Safeguarding Children and Young Adults PolicyRespect and promote the rights, wishes and feelings of all children and young adults

• Safeguard and promote the welfare of all children and young adults

• Conduct themselves in accordance with the Creative Mentor Network Code of Conduct

• Are entitled to have a positive and enjoyable experience in a safe environment

• Be protected from abuse whilst participating in dealings with Creative Mentor Network

Volunteer Disclosure and Barring Service checks

Adults who are mentoring children whilst on our programmes must complete a DBS check prior to meeting their mentee. A DBS check is a criminal record check to assess a person's suitability for working with children and vulnerable groups.This will be facilitated by Creative Mentor Network’s Designated Safeguarding Lead. Mentors must comply with this process, and have a ‘clear’ response before they are able to be introduced to their mentee.

Any mentors who are not based in the UK must not be placed with a child, as the DBS process does not work for those who are based abroad. In such a situation, the mentor must be placed with a mentee over the age of 18.

Any volunteer conducting interviews for Creative Mentor Network, on a programme where mentees could be children (such as Break The Wall) must have a valid DBS check before they can interact with any potential candidates.

Mentee and young person’s responsibilities

Our mentee community, made up of children and young adults, also has a responsibility towards ensuring our programmes are as safe and positive as possible.

We ask all children and young adults who engage with our services to exhibit the following behaviours:

Open Communication: Engage in open and honest communication with their mentor and the Creative Mentor Network Designated Safeguarding Lead regarding any concerns or issues related to their safety and well-being.

Respect Boundaries: Respect and adhere to the professional boundaries established by the mentor and programme guidelines to ensure a safe and respectful mentoring environment.

Raise Concerns: Feel empowered to raise any safeguarding concerns or incidents they may experience or witness during their time on the programme, knowing that their safety is a priority.

Participate in Safety Measures: Participate actively in safety measures implemented by the programme, such as meeting in designated locations and adhering to communication protocols.

Be Informed: Read the mentee handbook and code of conduct to understand their rights and responsibilities within the mentorship relationship.

Report Incidents: Promptly report any instances of abuse, harassment, or inappropriate behaviour to their programme manager or Designated Safeguarding Lead for appropriate action.

Avoid Unsafe or Illegal Behaviours: Must not consume illegal substances or act outside of the law, whilst engaging with our services.

Exclusion Criteria for Mentorship Scheme Participation

Creative Mentor Network is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for all participants on our mentorship programmes. Our goal is to ensure that individuals selected for mentorship have a reasonable opportunity to benefit from the program. To maintain the effectiveness of our mentorship schemes, we reserve the right to evaluate and, if necessary, decline participation based on an assessment of an applicant's needs.

In certain cases, an individual's needs or circumstances may be deemed incompatible with the objectives and capabilities of our mentorship program. These cases may include, but are not limited to:

1. Incompatibility of Needs: If an applicant's needs significantly exceed the scope of support and guidance that our mentors and resources can reasonably provide.

2. Safety Concerns: If the safety of the applicant or other participants may be compromised due to the nature of their needs or circumstances.

3. Resource Limitations: If accepting the applicant would strain our available resources and negatively impact the quality of support we can offer to other participants.

4. Failure to Comply: If the applicant consistently fails to adhere to the program's rules, guidelines, and expectations despite reasonable efforts to address concerns.

In such cases, Creative Mentor Network's designated safeguarding lead or programme manager will conduct an internal assessment to determine whether participation in the mentorship scheme is suitable. This assessment will be made in a fair, non-discriminatory, and confidential manner.

The decision to decline participation will be communicated to the applicant, providing clear and constructive reasons for the decision. Every effort will be made to suggest alternative sources of support and resources when appropriate. This decision may be made at any point of the application process, or when a mentee has already started a programme.

Creative Mentor Network is dedicated to ensuring that all applicants seeking mentorship are provided with the most suitable and effective support available. We recognise that, in some instances, this may mean declining participation in our mentorship schemes in the best interests of all involved.

Policy and Monitoring Procedures

Creative Mentor Network’s safeguarding policy is reviewed annually and discussed in quarterly trustee board meetings. Trustees are informed of any important incidents or changes to the safeguarding procedures for Creative Mentor Network. 

The Designated Safeguarding Lead and Safeguarding Trustee will review the safeguarding policy on a yearly basis to make sure it complies with UK government guidelines and that of other safeguarding agencies. Once confirmed as accurate, the updated policy will be presented to the board of trustees, and discussed as an agenda item.

The policy was last reviewed on Wednesday 17th April, 2024. The next date for this policy to be reviewed annually is Wednesday 16th April, 2025.

Additionally, the Designated Safeguarding Lead and Safeguarding Trustee meet monthly to discuss updates and significant incidents and make any necessary changes to Creative Mentor Network's process as and when issues may arise.

Roles and responsibilities 

Creative Mentor Network meets its child and young adult protection responsibilities by ensuring that adults working with children are briefed on Safeguarding policies and best practices.

All Creative Mentor Network staff and volunteers are given ample time to read and consider the Safeguarding Children and Young Adults Policy as part of their onboarding.

Deviation from the guidelines or failure to enforce the Safeguarding Children and Young Adults Policy may result in immediate dismissal/exclusion from the organisation

If an issue arises or you have a concern it is important to escalate the matter to a senior member of staff. In some cases, you may feel the need to report issues/concerns directly to the Safeguarding Lead. Concerns shared will be treated with the strictest of confidence and investigated fully. 

Please see Appendix 1 for more information.

Code of Conduct 

It is important that adults working with children and young adults understand that the nature of their work and the responsibilities related to it, place them in a position of trust. At Creative Mentor Network, we aim to create a safe culture by ensuring adults working with children and young adults follow a Code of Conduct. This Code of Conduct endeavours to:

• Assist staff working with children, and young adults to work safely and responsibly and to monitor their own standards and practice

• Set clear expectations of behaviour and codes of practice relevant to the age group.

In your role at Creative Mentor Network, you are acting in a position of authority and have a duty of care towards the children and young adults we work with. You are likely to be seen as a role model and are expected to act appropriately. Please see Appendix 2 for the ‘Mentor Code of Conduct"‘ that is included in the mentor handbook.

As an adult working with the organisation you are responsible for:

• Prioritising the welfare of children and young adults

• Providing a safe environment for children and young adults

• Having a good awareness of issues to do with safeguarding and taking action when appropriate

• Following our principles, policies and procedures including safeguarding, whistleblowing and online safety

• Staying within the law at all times

• Modelling good behaviour for children and young adults to follow

• Challenging all unacceptable behaviour and reporting any breaches of the behaviour code to the Safeguarding Lead

• Reporting all concerns about abusive behaviour following our safeguarding procedures. This includes behaviour being displayed by an adult/child and directed at anybody of any age. 

  See Appendix 1 for more information.

Rights

• You should treat children and young adults fairly and without discrimination or prejudice

• Understand that children and young adults are individuals with individual needs

• Respect differences in gender, sexual orientation, culture, race, ethnicity, disability and religious belief systems and appreciate that all participants bring something different and valuable to the organisation

• Challenge discrimination and prejudice

• Encourage young adults to speak about attitudes or behaviour that make them feel uncomfortable

Relationships

• Promote relationships that are based on openness, honesty, trust and respect

• Be patient with others

• Exercise caution when you discuss sensitive issues 

• Ensure your contact with children and young adults is appropriate and relevant to the project

• Ensure that whenever possible there is more than one adult present during activities. If a situation arises where you are alone with a child or young person ensure that you are within sight or hearing of other adults

• Only provide personal care in an emergency and make sure there is more than one adult present

Respect

• Value and take children and young adult’s contributions seriously actively involving them in planning activities whenever possible

• Respect children and young adult’s right to personal privacy as far as possible. 

• If you need to break confidentiality in order to follow safeguarding procedures it is important to explain this at the earliest opportunity

Unacceptable behaviour

When working with children and young adults you must not:

• Allow concerns or allegations to go unreported

• Take unnecessary risks

• Smoke, consume alcohol or use illegal substances

• Develop inappropriate relationships with children and young adults

• Make inappropriate promises to children and young adults

• Engage in behaviour that is in any way abusive including having any form of sexual contact

• Let children and young adults have your personal contact details (mobile number, personal email or home address or have contact with them through a personal social media account)

• Act in a way that can be perceived as threatening or abusive

• Make sarcastic, insensitive, derogatory or sexually suggestive comments/gestures

• Encourage any behaviours that sit outside of the professional boundaries of the mentorship process

Power and Positions of Trust 

As a result of their knowledge, position and/or the authority invested in their role, adults working with children and young adults are in positions of trust. 

There is potential for exploitation and harm of children and young adults.

This means that adults should not: 

• Use their position to gain access to information for their own or others’ advantage

• Use their position to intimidate, bully, humiliate, threaten, coerce or undermine children and young adults

• Use their status and standing to form or promote relationships which are of a sexual or romantic nature, or which may become so. 

• Use their status and standing to encourage children and young adults to engage in illegal or dangerous behaviours.

Where a person aged 18 or over is in a specified position of trust with a child under 18, it is a criminal offence for that person to engage in sexual activity with or in the presence of that child, or to cause or incite that child to engage in or watch sexual activity. 

Propriety and Behaviour 

There may be times, for example, when a person’s behaviour or actions in their personal life come under scrutiny from the work environment, the local communities or public authorities. This could be because their behaviour is considered to compromise their position or indicate unsuitability to work with children. Misuse of drugs, alcohol or acts of violence would be examples of such behaviour. 

People in contact with children should therefore understand and be aware that safe practice also involves using judgement and integrity about behaviours in places other than the work or mentorship setting. 

This means that adults should not: 

• Smoke or drink alcohol whilst in the company of, or whilst responsible for, children or young adults

• Use illegal drugs

• Behave in an aggressive, violent or forceful manner which would lend any reasonable person to question your suitability to work with children and young adults or act as a role model

Infatuations 

Infatuation, in the context of safeguarding, refers to an intense and often unrealistic emotional attachment or fixation that a mentee may develop towards a mentor or vice versa. It can involve strong feelings of admiration, adoration, or romantic attraction that go beyond the boundaries of a professional mentorship relationship.

Creative Mentor Network is dedicated to maintaining safe and professional relationships within our mentorship schemes. We recognise that infatuation can potentially harm the welfare and wellbeing of both mentees and mentors, and we are committed to addressing such situations promptly and effectively.

Guidelines for Handling Cases of Infatuation

1. Prevention and Education: We emphasise the importance of mentorship being a professional, educational, and supportive relationship. All participants will receive guidance on appropriate boundaries and expectations during their training and/or induction.

2. Early Detection: Mentors and mentees are encouraged to report any signs or concerns related to infatuation to the Designated Safeguarding Lead or programme manager. Examples could be inappropriate comments of a sexual or romantic nature, or similar behaviours.

3. Assessment: If a case of infatuation is reported or suspected, the Designated Safeguarding Lead will conduct an assessment to determine the nature and extent of the infatuation. This assessment will be conducted in a sensitive and confidential manner, and will involve speaking with both parties, and any other relevant individuals involved.

4. Support and Guidance: For the individual experiencing infatuation, Creative Mentor Network will provide appropriate support and signposting to specialist support organisations. If we are concerned about the wellbeing or safety of either party, we will refer the situation on to the appropriate statutory authorities.

5. Reassignment: In cases where infatuation poses a significant risk to the welfare and wellbeing of one or both parties, Creative Mentor Network may consider reassigning the mentee to a different mentor or vice versa, if such a reassignment is feasible. We also reserve the right to end the programme with immediate effect if we feel infatuation is taking place.

6. Confidentiality: All cases of infatuation will be handled with the utmost discretion and respect for the privacy of all parties involved. Information will only be shared with those who have a legitimate need to know.

7. Monitoring and Review: The progress and outcomes of any measures taken to address infatuation cases will be closely monitored and reviewed, to ensure that the infatuation has been managed effectively by Creative Mentor Network.

Gift Giving and Conversations About Faith

Gift Giving

Gift giving, in the context of our mentorship program, refers to the act of giving or receiving physical or symbolic items, tokens, or financial gifts from one party to another.

Guidelines for Gift Giving:

1. Transparency: All participants in the mentorship program are encouraged to be transparent about any intentions related to gift giving. This includes both mentors and mentees.

2. Appropriateness: Gifts exchanged within the mentorship program should be of nominal value and appropriate for a professional and/or educational setting. Participants are discouraged from giving expensive, intimate, or personal gifts. Participants must not directly give financial gifts whilst on the programme.

3. Report of Gift Giving: Participants are required to report any instances of gift giving beyond nominal value to the Creative Mentor Network's safeguarding lead or programme manager.

4. Assessment: The safeguarding lead will assess any reported gift giving to ensure that it does not compromise the integrity of the mentorship relationship. Actions will be taken if necessary, including discussions with the parties involved.

Conversations About Faith

Conversations about faith refer to discussions related to religious beliefs, spirituality, or personal faith within the context of the mentorship program.

Guidelines for Conversations About Faith:

1. Respect for Diversity: Creative Mentor Network values diversity and respects the beliefs and faiths of all participants. Conversations about faith should be conducted with respect for the diversity of opinions and backgrounds.

2. Voluntary Participation: Conversations about faith should be voluntary and consensual. No participant should be pressured to engage in such conversations.

3. Professional Boundaries: Participants are encouraged to maintain professional boundaries during conversations about faith and to avoid promoting any particular religious belief or faith.

4. Report of Concerns: If any participant feels uncomfortable with conversations about faith or experiences any form of pressure related to faith discussions, they should report their concerns to the safeguarding lead or designated responsible person.

5. Conflict Resolution: Creative Mentor Network will take appropriate action to address any conflicts or concerns related to conversations about faith, including providing guidance, mediation, or adjustments to the mentorship relationship, if necessary.

Sexual Contact 

Staff and volunteer mentors should clearly understand the need to maintain appropriate boundaries in their contact with children and young adults. Relationships, whether emotional or sexual between children or young adults and the adults who work with them will be regarded as a grave breach of trust. Allowing or encouraging a relationship to develop in a way which might lead to a sexual relationship or intimate relationship is also unacceptable. Any sexual activity between an adult and the child with whom they work will be regarded as a criminal offence and reported accordingly. Additionally, this will always be a matter of disciplinary action. 

Children are protected by specific legal provisions regardless of whether the child consents or not. The sexual activity referred to does not just involve physical contact including penetrative and non-penetrative acts. It may also include non-contact activities, such as causing children to engage in or watch sexual activity or the production of pornographic material. There are occasions when a person may embark on a course of behaviour known as 'grooming' where the sole purpose is to gain the trust of a child, and manipulate that relationship so sexual abuse can take place. Adults should be aware that consistently conferring inappropriate special attention and favour upon a child/young adult might be construed as being part of a 'grooming' process and as such will give rise to concerns about their behaviour and, in relation to staff and volunteer mentors, could result in disciplinary action. 

This means that staff and volunteer mentors should not:

• Have emotional or sexual relations with any child or young adult mentee on the programme.

• Have any communication which could be interpreted as sexually suggestive or provocative – either verbal, letter, notes, email, text, calls or physical contact

• Talk about your own sexual relationships

• Make sexual remarks about children or young adults

Relationships should be professional, healthy and respectful at all times. Your language, demeanour attitudes and conduct all require careful thought when dealing with children and vulnerable adults.

Dress and Appearance 

Staff and volunteer mentors should dress in ways which are appropriate to their role and this may need to be different to how they dress when not at work. 

Staff and volunteer mentors should wear clothing appropriate to the role: 

• Not viewed as offensive, revealing or sexually provocative

• Does not distract, cause embarrassment or give rise to misunderstanding

• Is absent of any political or otherwise contentious slogan

• Is not considered discriminatory and is culturally sensitive

Behaviour Management 

All children and young adults have a right to be treated with respect and dignity even in those circumstances where they display difficult or challenging behaviour.

Staff and volunteer mentors should:

• Not use any form of degrading treatment to punish a child or vulnerable adult

• Not use sarcasm, demeaning or insensitive comments towards children or vulnerable adults. It is not acceptable in any situation. 

• Never use corporal punishment.

Physical Contact 

There are occasions when it is appropriate and proper for staff and volunteer mentors to have physical contact with children or young adults, but it is crucial that they only do so in ways appropriate to their professional role. The general culture of 'limited touch' should be adopted and staff should use their professional judgement at all times. 

Physical contact should take place only when it is necessary in relation to a particular situation. Some of these situations are: 

• During certain activities such as drama, sports and outdoor activities

• When a child or young adult is in severe distress

• For restraint and physical intervention

• Medical and First Aid

This means that staff and volunteer mentors should never: 

• Use physical force as a means of punishment and discipline

• Never touch a child or young adult in a way which may be considered indecent

• Indulge in ‘horse-play’. 

 The use of unwarranted physical force is likely to constitute a criminal offence.

Communication  

Communication with children and young adults by whatever method, should take place within clear and explicit professional boundaries. This includes the wider use of technology such as mobile phones, text messaging, e-mails, cameras, and websites. A person should ensure that all communications are transparent and open to scrutiny. 

Staff and volunteer mentors should not share any inappropriate or unnecessary personal information with a child or young adult. and all contact should be made only for professional reasons. 

This means that staff and volunteer mentors:

• Must use their work email. 

• Must use their work phone and mobiles if working with children. 

• Ensure that mobile numbers of children are not stored on a personal mobile and children should not have access to staff/mentors personal mobile numbers

• Inform the DSL if contacted by a child on a personal number

• When working with young adults, if there is no access to a work phone or mobile, a personal number can be used (but the DSL must be informed)

• Recognise that texting is not a professional means of communication and should not occur with a child and avoided with young adults. 

• Never use Whatsapp to communicate with a child. 

• Discourage the use of Whatsapp with a young adult, however it is essential to a particular line of work the Creative Mentor Network work phone must be added to the conversation: +447746333402

• Not use internet or web-based communication channels to send personal messages to a child or young adult 

• Not use a social network site to complain about or criticise children or young adults

• Report any unwanted contact/emails/messages from children to the Designated Safeguarding Lead.

Online Communication  

With the shift to online, we recognise that face-to-face communication will be greatly replaced by online communication. It is imperative that clear boundaries are established so that staff, mentors, children and young adults foster safe professional relationships. 

This means that staff and volunteer mentors; 

• Set clear boundaries as to when communication can be made within appropriate work hours 

• Conduct all video calls in an appropriate setting without distracting backgrounds or noise

• Dress appropriately for video calls 

• Ensure permission is granted before sharing any contact details or personal information of anyone in your network with children or young adults

• Be present in all video introductions of members from your network to children

• Be copied into email communication with members of your network to children 

Social Media 

Social media is vital to the success of mentoring (particularly now that much working practice takes place work online rather than face to face) but with it are inherent risks.  As such certain precautions must be taken.

This means that staff and volunteer mentors:

• Should never connect with a child or young adult on personal social media accounts such as Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok. 

• Can connect with children and young adults on professional sites such as Linkedin and The Dots

• Can allow a young adult to follow a merged personal and professional social media account but they must ensure that no inappropriate content is posted 

For safeguarding purposes there must be an audit trail of any and all communications with a child or young adult so that staff or volunteers are protected against any possible allegations.

Child and young adult protection guidance 

 How to respond to concerns 

If you have concerns about a child or young adult’s safety or well-being, discuss your concerns with the Safeguarding Lead who will have the appropriate training and expertise to support you and advise on the next stage. You should act swiftly if you have a concern: (see Appendix 1 for the full process).  If you cannot contact the DSL and you believe that a child or young adult may be in imminent danger of abuse you should contact the Police immediately. 

How to respond to a disclosure 

A concern may come to light as a response or something a child or young person says to you. Often, this disclosure can be made during casual conversation. 

If a disclosure is made to you: 

• Listen to the information and accept what you hear without passing judgement or dismissing what you hear. 

• Do not dismiss or trivialise what the child or young adult has told you. 

• Stay calm. Be aware of your own reactions. Do not transmit shock, anger or embarrassment

• Never enter into a pact of secrecy with the child or young person. 

• Assure them you will try and help but this may involve telling a more senior trained member of staff. 

• Do not promise confidentiality and reiterate you will need to share the information with a trained safeguarding person if it affects their health and wellbeing

• Reassure and praise them. Tell them you believe them and it is not their fault. Children and young adults rarely lie about abuse but they may have tried to tell others and not been heard or believed

• Encourage the child or young person to talk without leading questions. 

• Do not put words into their mouth or make judgemental statements about any person. 

• Keep your own responses short and simple and do not offer new information. 

• Do not interrogate them. 

• Check you have understood what they are telling you. 

• Do not comment on the offender – it may be someone they love or are close to

• Be aware the child or young person may retract what they have told you, but it is essential to report what you have heard

• As soon as possible afterwards (if possible during the conversation) make a detailed record of the conversation, including questions you asked. 

• Do not add your opinion

• Immediately after the meeting you should contact the Safeguarding Lead and report the outcome of the meeting, producing the written record of the conversation

• Take into account the child or young adult's age, their level of understanding, their culture and level of language

• Confidentiality: you must never discuss issues with colleagues, family or friends. 

• The information you have received must remain between yourself and the Safeguarding Lead or Deputy Safeguarding Lead

• Any information divulged must be on a need to know basis

• Parents / guardians of a child will always be informed of allegations of abuse made by a child unless this puts the child or the subsequent investigation at risk (e.g. if they are the subject of the allegation). 

How do I make my record accurate? 

• Factually - take note day, date, time place 

• Give background information 

• Record words verbatim 

• Keep any initial notes 

• Record action taken and the reasons 

How to record a disclosure and record-keeping 

Recording a disclosure is an essential part of the safeguarding process. If possible a disclosure should be recorded during the time of the disclosure, or directly afterwards. If this is not possible it should be done as soon as possible after (within 24 hours) by contacting the Designated Safeguarding Lead. 

This can be done directly via email, or by using the contact form at the top of this page. 

See Appendix 1 for details.

 Why do I need to record a disclosure? 

• Clarifies the nature and extent of concerns

• Provides a clear record of the development of concerns

• Identifies patterns of behaviour 

• Assists any subsequent referrals 

• Ensures consistency 

What needs to be recorded? 

• Signs and indicators

• Disclosures 

• Relevant contact with parents / guardians

Secure provision is made for all records produced during any welfare discussions or disclosures. These records are then transferred to the Creative Mentor Network server where they are stored for three years in a secure digital safeguarding file. There are copies of all documents and information which may have been sent to any authority regarding any safeguarding issue.

Recognising symptoms of abuse/ safeguarding issue  

Although a child or young adult may make a disclosure of abuse to you, it is entirely possible that you will become concerned about the welfare of a child or young adult because of their behaviour or because you notice physical symptoms of abuse. 

The four areas of abuse are physical, emotional, neglect and sexual (PENS).  

There are no absolute criteria on which to rely when judging what constitutes significant harm. Consideration of the severity of ill-treatment may include the degree and extent the duration and frequency of all the four abuses. 

What is abuse and neglect? 

These are forms of maltreatment – a person may abuse or neglect a child by inflicting harm, or failing to act to prevent harm. Children and young adults may be abused by a family member or in an institution or residential or community setting; by those known to them or, more rarely, by a stranger. 

Handling allegations of abuse against staff 

If an allegation is made against a member of Creative Mentor Network staff or volunteer mentor, the quick resolution of that allegation is our priority to the benefit of all concerned. At any stage of consideration or investigation, all unnecessary delays should be avoided. 

• Any allegation of abuse by a member of staff or volunteer mentor should be reported to the Safeguarding Lead or Deputy Safeguarding Lead straight away. 

• In the absence of the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) or Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (or where safeguarding concerns relating to actions by the DSL or Deputy DSL), Trustees should be contacted in regards to a safeguarding incident.

• -The Safeguarding Lead or Deputy Safeguarding Lead will then immediately launch a full investigation and decide on strategy going forward. 

• The Safeguarding Lead or Deputy Safeguarding Lead will inform the accused person about the allegations as soon as possible after completion of investigation.

• In response to an allegation, staff or volunteer mentor suspension will be the default option whilst a full investigation is undertaken. If the suspension is deemed appropriate, the reasons and justification should be recorded by the Creative Mentor Network and the individual notified of the reasons. 

• Creative Mentor Network will investigate allegations of misconduct in good faith, with the assumption that allegations are made in good faith. Allegations made in good faith that cannot be substantiated will nevertheless remain in Creative Mentor Network records as per this policy. Allegations that are found not to have been raised in good faith and are not substantiated, will be removed from personnel records and should not be referred to in employer references.

Other safeguarding issues 

Safeguarding covers a range of issues. We should do everything possible to ensure that children feel safe at all times. Some of the areas that may affect children and young adults are as follows.

Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) 

CSE involves exploitative situations, contexts and relationships where young adults receive something (for example food, accommodation, drugs, alcohol, gifts, money or in some cases simply affection) as a result of engaging in sexual activities. Sexual exploitation can take many forms ranging from the seemingly ‘consensual’ relationship where sex is exchanged for affection or gifts, to serious organised crime by gangs and groups. What marks out exploitation is an imbalance of power in the relationship. The perpetrator always holds some kind of power over the victim which increases as the exploitative relationship develops. Sexual exploitation involves varying degrees of coercion, intimidation or enticement, including unwanted pressure from peers to have sex, sexual bullying including cyberbullying and grooming. However, it is also important to recognise that some young adults who are being sexually exploited do not exhibit any external signs of this abuse.

If you suspect a child is at risk of CSE or that this has already taken place this should be reported to the Safeguarding Lead.

Female Genital Mutilation. FGM

The UK Government Advice and guidance on FGM states “that FGM is considered child abuse in the UK and a grave violation of the human rights of girls and women.” FGM is a form of abuse that may might effect your mentee. FGM is included in the training of staff and volunteers.

Prevent 

The Creative Mentoring Network is aware that all organisations working with young adults as outlined in the Government’s  Prevent Policy have a duty to understand the implications for young adults. Prevent is included in the staff and mentor programme training programme.

Staff Training

• All core Creative Mentor Network staff are required to undergo safeguarding training to ensure the safety and well-being of children and young adults under their care. The training is tailored to the level of contact each staff member has with children and young adults, ensuring that they receive appropriate knowledge and skills to fulfil their roles effectively.

• For those core team members who have regular and direct contact with children and young adults and hold a professional safeguarding role, the training pathway includes the following components:

• Introduction to Safeguarding Children (Level 1): This foundational training provides an overview of safeguarding principles, including recognizing signs of abuse, understanding safeguarding procedures, and knowing how to respond appropriately to concerns.

• Advanced Safeguarding Children (Level 2): Building upon the foundational knowledge from Level 1, this training delves deeper into safeguarding issues, risk assessment, communication strategies, and effective collaboration with relevant agencies and stakeholders.

• Designated Safeguarding Lead Training (Level 3): Staff members designated as safeguarding leads undergo comprehensive training to equip them with the skills and knowledge required to lead safeguarding efforts within the organisation. This includes understanding statutory responsibilities, managing safeguarding cases, providing support to staff, and liaising with external agencies.

  For other members of the core team who do not have regular or direct contact with children and young adults, the training pathway consists of:

• Introduction to Safeguarding Children (Level 1): This introductory training covers essential safeguarding principles, including awareness of signs of abuse, understanding safeguarding procedures, and knowing how to report concerns appropriately.

• Training certificates obtained by core Creative Mentor Network staff are valid for a period of three years, after which renewal is required to ensure that staff members remain up-to-date with relevant safeguarding practices and legislation. By ensuring that all core team members receive appropriate safeguarding training tailored to their roles and responsibilities, Creative Mentor Network aims to create a safe and nurturing environment for children and young adults under their care.

Creative Mentor Network staff also undergo a yearly refresher session with the Designated Safeguarding Lead. This session focuses on any updated guidance, as well as testing staff on their safeguarding process knowledge. During this process, staff will also be encouraged to provide feedback about Creative Mentor Network’s safeguarding policy and procedures.

Complaints Procedure

Any complaints about this policy or procedures should be addressed in writing to the Designated Safeguarding Lead with a copy to the Chair of the Trustees Board of Creative Mentoring Network.

These can be submitted to the below email addresses:

natasha@creativementornetwork.org [Designated Safeguarding Lead - Natasha Khan]

msgryan@icloud.com [Safeguarding Trustee - Ryan Johnson]

Whistleblowing Policy

Creative Mentor Network is committed to the highest possible standards of openness and accountability. We expect employees and external partners who have any serious concerns about any aspect of the organisation to report their concerns. This applies to all employees and volunteers, external contractors and those providing service to the organisation on a temporary or permanent basis.

The following concerns may be reported:

• Conduct which is a breach of the law

• Health and Safety risks to the public and employees

• Possible fraud and corruption

• Sexual or physical abuse of clients

• Damage to the environment

• Other unethical conduct

• Safeguarding concerns

The organisation recognises that the decision to report a concern may be difficult but you will be doing your duty to your employer and for those you provide a service. Creative Mentor Network will not tolerate any harassment or victimisation and will take appropriate action to protect you when you raise a concern in good faith.

Local Safeguarding Contacts:

Westminster Safeguarding Children’s Partnership:  Referrals can be made by emailing jfoster1@westminster.gov.uk or telephoning 020 7641 4000 to discuss  concerns.

Contact the NSPCC helpline: If you're worried about a child, even if you're unsure, contact their professional counsellors for help, advice and support. Call on 0808 800 5000 or email help@nspcc.org.uk.

Childline: You can talk to them about anything. No problem is too big or too small. Call them on 0800 1111 or chat to them online.

APPENDIX

1. sAFEGUARDING DISCLOSURE AND COMPLAINTS POLICY

2. CREATIVE MENTOR NETWORK MENTOR CODE OF CONDUCT

As a mentor, it is important that you are aware of the issues surrounding safeguarding. Creative Mentor Network has a duty of care to help protect you and the young adults you will be working with. The following is Creative Mentor Network’s Code of Conduct. Please make sure you read it thoroughly.

A mentor should

• Do what you can to ensure that your mentee is safe.

• Treat everyone equally with the same fairness and respect you would expect to be treated with.

• Respect the participant's background, culture and traditions and be aware certain behaviour may offend his/her/their beliefs.

• Discourage negative or abusive attitudes or behaviour (e.g. ridicule, racism, swearing, exclusion, bullying).

• Inform children and  young adults if their behaviour is inappropriate and escalate this to the programme manager if the behaviour continues 

• Be aware that you are a role model for the children and young adults you are working with.

• You should only meet in your designated professional base or an agreed public location (no private residences).

• Always work in open spaces or with the office door open and ensure another member of staff is present nearby

• Avoid unnecessary physical contact with children and young adults.

• Any mentor placed with a mentee under the age of 18 must complete a DBS check with Creative Mentor Network prior to being introduced to their mentee

• The mentor should only contact the mentee with the office/work number. In the absence of a work number, use a personal number but inform Creative Mentor Network you are doing this. 

• Using Whatsapp with a mentee is discouraged, however if it is essential to your line of work then the Creative Mentor Network mobile should be added to your Whatsapp conversation; 07746 333402

• Feel free to connect with your mentee professionally online (LinkedIn etc.), but do not connect on personal accounts (e.g. personal Instagram or Twitter accounts).

• Never meet or make contact with a child or young adult outside the designated hours and location of the session.

• If your mentee is under 18 and is meeting someone you’ve introduced them to, be sure to be present at the meeting (because you are DBS-checked).

• If your mentee is under 18 and you’re considering inviting them to a professional evening event such as a talk or product launch, please notify the programme manager in advance so that parental consent can be checked.

• If there is ever an issue, raise it with the Designated Safeguarding Lead immediately.