Safeguarding at the RAD
We are committed to putting the wellbeing of our staff, teachers and students first. Safeguarding children and young people (anyone under the age of 18) and vulnerable or ‘at risk’ adults is central to that commitment.
The Children Act 1989 provides the legislative framework for child protection in England. (see below for information relating to reporting concerns in the United States). Key principles established by the Act
include:
- the vital nature of the child’s welfare, and
- the expectations and requirements around duties of care to children.
All organizations that work with or come into contact with children should have safeguarding policies and procedures to ensure that every child, regardless of their age, disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation, has a right to equal protection from harm. The RAD has three Senior Safeguarding Officers, a Safeguarding Committee and a Safeguarding Policy and set of procedures.
We do not, however have the authority to investigate allegations of abuse or other safeguarding concerns.
Reporting concerns
Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. If you have a concern about a child, you should report it to your local child welfare agency or to the Police. Many people worry, “What if I am wrong?” but if we take a child-centered approach to safeguarding, we should all be asking, “What if I am right?” By raising a concern, you could be protecting not just one child but future children:
- If a child is in immediate danger, call the police on 911.
- Contact your local child protection services. Their contact details can be found on the website for the local authority the child lives in.
- Contact the police. They will assess the situation and take the appropriate action to protect the child.
- Contact ChildHelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 800-422-2253 or visit the Child Protective Services website.
Advice for RAD Teachers
RAD teaching members have access to a dedicated Safeguarding Hub in the Members’ Area, which outlines safeguarding requirements in accordance with best practice, as well as guidance on the principles of safeguarding and safer recruitment. We are committed to supporting and guiding teachers through their own commitment to keeping children safe whilst dancing. The Hub will be regularly updated with useful resources, training opportunities and advice on best practice.
Resources for Parents and Students
- Keeping Children Safe during Community and Out-of-School Settings – advice for parents and carers.
- Non-Statutory Guidance for Providers of Out-of-School Settings.
- Advice to Parents and Carers on keeping Children Safe from Abuse and Harm.
- Child Protective Services
- Mind
- Young Minds