Introduction

This policy sets out the principles for safeguarding within Friends of Grindleton School PTA. It is relevant to all within the association and is endorsed by the committee of Friends of Grindleton School PTA. It will be reviewed annually to ensure that it remains appropriate to the Organisation and its volunteers’ needs.

Responsibility

Parent Teacher Associations (PTAs) have a duty of care to consider the safety of children and vulnerable adults. This should be taken into consideration when risk assessing a PTA event and the duration of such events.

It is best practice for PTAs to have a set of procedures in place and guidelines for volunteers to follow at events, this may be developed with guidance from the school.

All PTA members should be aware of the person responsible for safeguarding within the school. The school may provide training for PTA members on safeguarding and the procedures to follow or the PTA may arrange their own training for its volunteers.

What to do if you have concerns about a child

You may have concerns about a child because of something you have seen or heard or a child may choose to disclose something to you.

If a child discloses information to you, you should:

  • Listen to the child without displaying shock or disbelief
  • Accept what is said and reassure the child, do not make promises that you may not be able to keep , e.g. ‘Everything will be alright now’
  • Do not ask leading questions and do not interrogate the child – this is not your responsibility to investigate
  • Explain to the child what you have to do next and who you have to talk to
  • Take notes, if possible, or write up the conversation as soon as possible afterwards
  • Contact the School’s Designated Safeguarding Lead (Mrs Walmsley) or Deputy Safeguarding Lead (Mr Holden) as soon as possible.

Guidance for Events