Purpose and Scope

• Protect all children and young people who engage with Rangadinu Dance Academy’s services from harm, including the children of adults who use our services.
• Provide staff, volunteers, children, young people, and families with clear principles to guide our safeguarding and child protection approach.

This policy applies to everyone working for or on behalf of Rangadinu Dance Academy, including instructors, supervisors, show managers, staff, volunteers, and students.

Legal Framework

This policy is based on legislation, statutory guidance, and best practice in England. A summary of key legislation and guidance can be found at nspcc.org.uk/childprotection.

Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO)

The Designated Safeguarding Officer for Rangadinu Dance Academy is Dinusha Wickrama Arachchige (Owner and Instructor).

The DSO is responsible for:

• Ensuring this policy is up to date.
• Completing an organisational safeguarding assessment every 1–2 years.
• Overseeing safer recruitment practices.
• Acting as the first point of contact for safeguarding concerns.

Contact details for the DSO are displayed clearly within the organisation and shared with all staff, volunteers, and families.

Responding to Concerns and Disclosures

• Concerns and disclosures must be treated seriously, respectfully, and confidentially.
• The safety and wellbeing of the child is the top priority.
• Concerns should be reported to the DSO as soon as possible and recorded in writing.
• No one should promise confidentiality to a child—concerns may need to be shared with safeguarding agencies.
• Where necessary, referrals will be made to local safeguarding partners or children’s social care.

Managing Allegations Against Staff or Volunteers

• Any allegation against staff or volunteers will be taken seriously and reported to the DSO.
• The DSO will liaise with the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) and relevant agencies.
• Staff may be suspended pending investigation if necessary to protect children.

Recording and Information Sharing

• Concerns must be recorded promptly, factually, and securely.
• Records will include dates, times, observations, and any actions taken.
• Information will only be shared with relevant agencies in line with safeguarding and data protection legislation.

Code of Conduct for Staff and Volunteers

• Use respectful, appropriate, and non-abusive language at all times.
• Maintain professional boundaries, avoiding unnecessary or inappropriate physical contact.
• Never be alone with a child in an isolated space, unless it is their parent/guardian.
• Follow a professional dress code—clothing should be modest and appropriate.
• Treat all children, families, and colleagues with respect.
• Never tolerate or engage in abusive behaviour of any kind.

Behaviour Expectations for Children and Young People

• Treat peers, staff, and volunteers with respect.
• Never engage in bullying, harassment, or abusive behaviour.
• Report any concerns, incidents, or worries to a staff member or volunteer they trust.

Photography and Images

• Parents/carers provide consent for photography when enrolling their child.
• Images will only be used for legitimate purposes (e.g., performances, marketing) and will not show children in a negative or vulnerable light.
• Children will not be named in publicity materials unless required (e.g., competition entries).
• We take steps to ensure only authorised individuals take photos or videos.

Online Safety

• We are committed to protecting children in online environments linked to our services.
• Communication with children online (if applicable) will always be professional, transparent, and monitored.

Whistleblowing

• Staff, volunteers, and families are encouraged to raise concerns about unsafe practices.
• Whistleblowers will be supported and protected in line with national guidance.

Our Commitment

We believe that:

• Children and young people should never experience abuse of any kind.
• Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.
• Partnership with families and safeguarding agencies is essential to protecting children.

We will keep children safe by:

• Listening to and valuing their voices.
• Appointing a safeguarding lead and deputy.
• Following safer recruitment and induction procedures.
• Training staff and volunteers in safeguarding responsibilities.
• Recording, storing, and sharing information securely.
• Creating an anti-bullying culture.
• Ensuring effective complaints and whistleblowing processes.
• Promoting a safe physical and online environment.
• Building a culture of respect and openness.

Contact Details

Review and Sign-off

We are committed to reviewing our policy and good practice annually.

This policy was last reviewed and edited on: 30/09/2025