Safeguarding Policy (Children) – Hideaway Wood Farm
 

Entity: Hideaway Wood Farm Ltd/Thrive at Hideaway Wood Farm CIC – West Northamptonshire


Effective Date: 26 August 2025

Next Review: 26 August 2026

1. Purpose & Scope

To safeguard and promote the welfare of children attending our premises or activities, including ensuring their safety on site and while in the care of their parent, legal guardian, or accompanying carer.

2. Key Principles

• The safety and welfare of children is our highest priority.
• We treat all individuals with dignity, respect, and without discrimination.
• Children who attend with carers remain the responsibility of their carers; we act in support.

3. Responsibilities

• Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): Amy Saunders, Director will manage all safeguarding concerns and liaise with relevant external agencies.
• All staff, volunteers and contractors must report concerns directly to the DSL, who will take appropriate action.

4. Local Reporting Procedures

• Emergency (Immediate Risk): Dial 999 if a child is in immediate danger.
• Non-emergency concerns: Contact the Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) during working hours: Phone: 0300 126 7000, northamptonshirescp.trixonline.co.uk, West Northamptonshire Council, Email: MASH@nctrust.co.uk northamptonshirescp.trixonline.co.uk
• Out-of-hours urgent concerns: Call the Children’s Social Care emergency service at 01604 626938

5. Allegations Against Staff or Volunteers (LADO)
If there's an allegation concerning someone working with children, consult or refer to the DSL in the first instance who will contact the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO). If the allegation concerns the SDL, please contact LADO direct:

• Email: LADOConsultations@NCTrust.co.uk
Key Contacts:
• Andy Smith: 07850 854 309
• Sian Edwards: 07738 636 449
• Francesca Hamilton: 07443 348 415

Northampton Children's Trust. Detailed referral guidance and forms are accessible via official safeguarding procedures Northampton Children's Trust.

6. Safe Working Practices
• Never leave a child unattended or unaccompanied by their carer.
• Avoid physical contact unless necessary to prevent harm.
• Staff and volunteers working with children must complete regular safeguarding training and be DBS checked.
• Conduct risk assessments of activities and environments to ensure child safety.
 

7. Confidentiality & Information Sharing
Handle safeguarding information sensitively. Disclosures should only be shared with relevant agencies in line with GDPR and safeguarding legislation.
 

8. Record Keeping
Document all concerns accurately and promptly. Records should include the nature of the concern, actions taken, and any onward referrals.
 

9. Policy Review
This safeguarding policy will be reviewed annually or following any incident or statutory change.

 

Amy Saunder

DSL, Director / Founder