Child Safeguarding Policy

Updated August 2026

Introduction

Friends of the Ullswater Way (“FOUW”, “we”, “us”) is committed to promoting the welfare, protection and safety of all children who take part in our activities, events, talks and projects. 

For the purposes of this policy, a child is anyone under 18 years old.

This policy applies to all trustees, volunteers and representatives acting on behalf of FOUW.

1. Our Commitment

FOUW will:

  • provide a safe environment for children participating in our public activities

  • ensure children are always accompanied by a parent, guardian or responsible adult

  • take all safeguarding concerns seriously and act promptly

  • store and use children’s personal information in line with our Privacy Policy

  • follow the Age-Appropriate Design Code when processing children’s data

  • ensure volunteers and trustees understand their responsibilities.

2. Supervision at Events

FOUW does not provide childcare or one-to-one supervision.

  • Children attending walks, talks or events must remain under the responsibility of a parent/guardian at all times.

  • Volunteers must avoid situations where they are alone with a child.

3. Photography and Filming

Consent is always required for identifiable photographs or videos of children.

  • Under 16: written parental consent

  • Ages 16–18: consent from the young person

Consent may be withdrawn at any time.

Images will be stored securely and retained for no more than 5 years, unless consent is withdrawn earlier.

4. Recognising and Responding to Concerns

Safeguarding concerns may include:

  • signs of physical or emotional abuse

  • neglect

  • inappropriate behaviour by volunteers or adults

  • a child disclosing harm.

If a volunteer or trustee has a safeguarding concern, they must:

  1. ensure the child is safe

  2. listen carefully — allow the child to disclose at their own pace and in their own words

  3. avoid interrupting, asking leading questions, or probing for more information than the child freely offers

  4. report the concern immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

  5. record the concern factually, including dates, times and individuals involved

  6. not promise confidentiality —  safeguarding concerns must be shared appropriately.

If a child is in immediate danger, call 999.

5. Designated Safeguarding Lead

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL):

Paddy Palmer, Trustee
Email: info@friendsoftheullswaterway.org

The DSL is responsible for:

  • receiving safeguarding concerns

  • deciding if referral to the Local Authority is required

  • maintaining safeguarding records.

6. Reporting to Authorities

If a child is at immediate risk, the DSL or volunteer must contact:

Cumbria Safeguarding Children Partnership
https://cumbriasafeguardingchildren.co.uk

Emergency: 999
Non-emergency police: 101

7. Recording and Storage

All safeguarding records will be:

  • stored securely

  • kept confidential

  • only accessible to the DSL and Chair

  • retained for six years, unless needed longer for legal reasons.

8. Training

Volunteers will receive an appropriate induction so they understand:

  • expected behaviour

  • boundaries

  • how to report a concern.

9. Review

This policy will be reviewed every two years or sooner if legislation changes.