Safeguarding at Unity.
Unity Performing Arts: safeguarding and child protection
This policy covers everyone under 18 attending Unity classes, rehearsals, performances, parties and online activities. It applies to staff, volunteers and visiting practitioners.
Our commitment
Every child deserves to feel safe, heard and welcome. We take concerns seriously, including abuse outside Unity and harm between children. Disability, race, religion, sex, sexuality or family circumstances must never prevent a child from receiving protection. We will listen in a way that meets each child’s communication needs.
Responsibility and contacts
Designated safeguarding lead: Louise Gallagher, 07825617864, louise@unityperformingarts.com Deputy or alternative contact: Tiegan Gallagher, tiegan@unityperformingarts.com. Approved by: Tiegan Gallagher. Effective date: 31/08/2026. Next review: 31/08/2026. Staff must know these contacts and where to find this policy. A concern about the lead must go to the alternative contact and, where appropriate, directly to external safeguarding services.
Responding to a concern
If a child is in immediate danger, call 999. Otherwise inform the safeguarding lead promptly, on the same day. Do not delay external help because the lead is unavailable or while completing website records. Anyone may make a referral directly.
Listen calmly. Reassure the child that speaking up was right and that the harm is not their fault. Do not promise secrecy, ask leading questions, confront an alleged abuser or investigate yourself. Explain that information will be shared with people who can help.
Record the date, time, people present, observations and the child’s own words as accurately as possible. Separate facts from opinion. The lead will record decisions, referrals, actions, owners and follow-up dates in the restricted safeguarding record. Seek advice if uncertain and follow up if the risk remains. An internal “closed” status does not replace an agency decision or outstanding protective action.
External reporting in West Sussex
For urgent, same-day concerns or advice, contact the Integrated Front Door on 01403 229900, Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm. Outside office hours contact the Emergency Duty Team on 0330 222 6664; if unavailable, 07711 769657 (no texts). For other concerns use the professional referral route on the West Sussex reporting page. Check current contact details there.
Concerns about an adult working with children must be considered for referral to the Local Authority Designated Officer using the West Sussex referral route. Take immediate protective steps and seek advice; do not conduct an internal investigation first. Contact police where necessary. Do not inform parents or an alleged abuser if this could increase risk or compromise enquiries; seek agency advice.
Safer everyday practice
Use appropriate recruitment checks, references, induction and role-eligible DBS checks. Keep safeguarding and first-aid training current. Maintain registers, emergency contacts, suitable supervision and clear collection arrangements. Assess risks for venues, changing areas, trips and performances, including applicable licensing and chaperone arrangements.
Use respectful language and clear professional boundaries. Explain any necessary physical guidance and respect a child’s refusal. Avoid isolated one-to-one situations; use visible spaces and agreed arrangements. Do not use personal accounts for private messages with children. Report bullying, discriminatory behaviour, sexual harassment, unsafe conduct and boundary concerns. Children and parents can raise concerns without fear of retaliation.
Obtain appropriate photo and video permissions, respect withdrawals and avoid publishing identifying or sensitive details. Review online content and communication settings. YouTube links can be reshared; they are not a secure store for confidential footage.
Records, accountability and review
Share information only with people who need it to protect a child. Keep records secure with individual accounts and an agreed retention schedule. Do not routinely delete safeguarding records with a membership record. Review who has admin access: the current website allows all active administrators to view safeguarding records.
The owner is responsible for implementing this policy, briefing staff and making it accessible to families. Review it annually, after serious incidents and when guidance changes. Supporting procedures cover staff conduct, allegations, recruitment, missing children, complaints, online safety, consent and record retention.
References, checked 31 August 2026: Department for Education: out-of-school settings; NSPCC: safeguarding policies and procedures; West Sussex County Council reporting guidance above.