1. Policy Statement
Khalsa Panth Academy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children, young people, and vulnerable individuals who engage in our programmes and services. We believe that everyone has the right to live, learn, and grow in a safe, secure, and supportive environment. All staff, volunteers, and associates share this commitment.
We will take all reasonable steps to ensure that children and vulnerable individuals are protected from harm, abuse, and exploitation and that their rights are upheld in accordance with UK legislation and best practice.
2. Legal Framework
This policy is guided by the following key legislation and guidance:
- Children Act 1989 and 2004
- Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018)
- Keeping Children Safe in Education (2023)
- Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006
- Education Act 2002
- The Prevent Duty (2015)
- Data Protection Act 2018 & UK GDPR
3. Scope
This policy applies to:
- All children and young people under the age of 18
- All staff, volunteers, contractors, and trustees
- Any activities delivered under the name of Khalsa Panth Academy
4. Roles and Responsibilities
Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL):
Responsible for overseeing all safeguarding matters, managing referrals, and acting as a point of contact for staff and families. The DSL receives appropriate training every two years.
Deputy DSL (if applicable):
Supports the DSL and steps in when the DSL is unavailable.
Staff and Volunteers:
All individuals working with children are required to:
- Complete enhanced DBS checks before engaging in regulated activity
- Attend annual safeguarding training
- Know how to identify and report concerns
- Adhere to this policy and relevant codes of conduct
5. Types of Abuse
Abuse can take many forms, including but not limited to:
- Physical abuse
- Emotional abuse
- Sexual abuse
- Neglect
- Bullying (including online/cyberbullying)
- Radicalisation and extremism
- Child sexual or criminal exploitation (CSE/CCE)
Khalsa Panth Academy ensures all staff are trained to recognise signs of abuse and respond appropriately.
6. Reporting a Concern
Any staff member, volunteer, or third party who suspects a child is at risk must report it immediately to the DSL.
Reporting steps:
- Record the concern factually and without delay
- Report directly to the Designated Safeguarding Lead
- The DSL will assess and determine if a referral to Children’s Social Care, LADO, or the Police is required
- Maintain confidentiality; only share on a need-to-know basis
If a child is in immediate danger, contact emergency services: 999.
7. Confidentiality and Record-Keeping
- All safeguarding concerns and actions taken are documented and stored securely
- Information is only shared with relevant personnel or agencies on a need-to-know basis
- Records are retained in line with data protection legislation and safeguarding guidance
8. Safer Recruitment
Khalsa Panth Academy follows safe recruitment practices to protect children:
- Enhanced DBS checks for all staff and volunteers
- ID verification and reference checks
- Interview questions assessing safeguarding awareness
- Clear safeguarding induction for all new recruits
9. Code of Conduct
All adults working on behalf of the academy are expected to:
- Treat all children and young people with respect and dignity
- Avoid one-to-one situations where not appropriate
- Maintain professional boundaries at all times
- Never use physical punishment or inappropriate language
- Never ignore safeguarding concerns
10. Training and Awareness
- All staff and volunteers receive induction training on safeguarding
- Ongoing refresher training is provided annually
- DSL and Deputy DSL undertake higher-level certified safeguarding training every two years
11. Prevent Duty
Khalsa Panth Academy has due regard to the Prevent Duty (Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015). We ensure that staff are aware of the signs of radicalisation and know how to refer concerns.
12. Online Safety
We promote safe use of digital platforms during any online sessions or communication. This includes:
- Supervised virtual classes
- No sharing of personal information
- Parental consent for digital engagement
- Following our E-Safety Policy (available separately)
13. Monitoring and Review
This policy is reviewed annually or earlier if there is a change in legislation or an incident occurs that requires revision. All policy updates are shared with staff and volunteers.
14. Contact Details
Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL):
[Insert Full Name]
Email: info@khalsapanthacademy.com
Local Authority Safeguarding Contact (Walsall MBC):
- Walsall Children’s Services: 0300 555 2866
- Emergency Duty Team (out of hours): 0300 555 2922
- Police (non-emergency): 101
- In an emergency: Call 999