Beachwood Film Studios Ltd: for Camera and Filming Workshops
Introduction
Beachwood Film Studios Ltd is committed to providing a safe, supportive, and enjoyable environment for all children and young people who participate in our camera and filming workshops. This policy document outlines our approach to safeguarding and child protection, ensuring the welfare of all participants, including guidance on handling emergencies such as fire, accidents, and health concerns.
1. Child Protection Policy
• Purpose: To ensure that all children attending our workshops are protected from harm and that their welfare is a priority.
• Responsibilities:
• All staff, facilitators, and volunteers must undergo enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks prior to working with children.
• Staff will receive training on recognizing and responding to signs of abuse or neglect.
• Beachwood Studios will maintain confidentiality, sharing information only when necessary to protect the child.
2. Safeguarding Policy
• Code of Conduct:
• Staff must act in a manner that prioritizes the safety and well-being of the children.
• No physical punishment or inappropriate behavior will be tolerated.
• Staff should avoid being alone with a child where possible, and workshops should always be held in open spaces with appropriate supervision.
• Supervision:
• Staff-to-child ratios will be maintained according to statutory guidelines.
• At least two adults will always be present during workshops.
• Reporting Concerns:
• Any suspicion of abuse or neglect must be reported to the designated safeguarding lead immediately.
• Beachwood Studios will work in cooperation with external agencies as required.
3. Fire Safety Policy
• Fire Evacuation Plan:
• A clear fire evacuation plan will be provided at the beginning of each workshop.
• All participants will be informed of the location of fire exits and the assembly point.
• Fire drills will be conducted regularly to ensure familiarity with emergency procedures.
• In the Event of a Fire:
• Staff will lead participants calmly and efficiently to the nearest fire exit.
• A headcount will be conducted at the assembly point to ensure everyone is accounted for.
• No one should re-enter the building until it has been declared safe by fire authorities.
4. Accident Policy
• First Aid:
• First aid kits will be available on-site, and a trained first aider will be present at all times.
• In the event of an accident, the injury will be assessed, and appropriate first aid administered.
• All accidents will be recorded in an accident report log, and parents/guardians will be informed immediately.
• Emergency Medical Attention:
• In the case of a severe injury, emergency medical services will be called, and parents/guardians will be notified promptly.
5. Child Medical Conditions Policy
• Medical Information:
• Parents/guardians must inform staff of any medical conditions (e.g., epilepsy, asthma, allergies, learning difficulties) that their child has before participating in the workshops.
• A written record of medical conditions and emergency contacts will be maintained for each participant.
• Medication:
• Staff will only administer medication if prior written consent has been provided by parents/guardians.
• Children with specific medical needs will be monitored, and staff will be trained to recognize and respond appropriately to symptoms related to these conditions.
More info at https://beachwoodstudios.co.uk/medical
6. Policy on Use of Electrical Equipment
• Safety Precautions:
• All electrical equipment used in workshops will be checked for safety (PAT tested) before use.
• Children will be supervised at all times when using electrical equipment (e.g., cameras, lighting, editing tools).
• No child will be allowed to operate electrical equipment without staff assistance and proper instruction.
• Restricted Access:
• Certain equipment will be restricted to use only by trained staff to avoid risk of injury (e.g., professional lighting rigs).
7. Behavior Management Policy
• Expectations of Behavior:
• Beachwood Studios aims to create a respectful environment. Children are expected to follow the rules set at the beginning of each workshop.
• Positive behavior will be encouraged and rewarded. Disruptive behavior will be managed through clear, consistent, and appropriate responses.
• Zero Tolerance:
• Bullying, discrimination, or violence will not be tolerated. Any incidents will be addressed immediately, and parents/guardians will be informed.
8. Lost Child Policy
• Prevention:
• Attendance will be recorded at the beginning of each session, and headcounts will be conducted regularly.
• Action Plan:
• If a child is discovered missing, staff will immediately conduct a thorough search of the premises.
• Parents/guardians and, if necessary, the authorities will be informed if the child cannot be located quickly.
9. Staff Training and Awareness
• Training Requirements:
• All staff will receive training in child protection, safeguarding, first aid, fire safety, and appropriate use of equipment.
• Regular workshops and refreshers will be held to ensure staff remain up-to-date with the latest policies and procedures.
10. Parental Involvement
• Communication:
• Beachwood Studios values strong communication with parents/guardians. They will be kept informed of activities and any issues concerning their child.
• Consent forms will be collected for all activities involving the children, including the use of media and equipment.
11. Review of Policy
• Continuous Improvement:
• This policy document will be reviewed annually or as needed to ensure it meets current legislation and the needs of the participants.
• Feedback from children, parents, and staff will be taken into consideration to improve safety and overall experience.
Contact Information
• Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): Lorna Child
• Contact Number: 07863182009
• Email: academy@beachwoodstudios.co.uk
Conclusion
The safety and welfare of all children attending Beachwood Studios workshops is our highest priority. This safeguarding and protection policy document reflects our commitment to creating a safe, engaging, and supportive environment where children can explore their creativity and learn about filming and media production in a responsible manner.
Last update : October 2024
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