Safeguarding

We hope you have an enjoyable experience at our Festivals. If you're unhappy with something that has happened while you have been here, we would like you to tell us why. Please tell someone you trust, like your parents, family member or carer. They can then get in touch with Keith Parsons (Kings College Organiser) by emailing KAParsons@kings-taunton.co.uk or calling 07889 458177.

Introduction
The King's College Taunton Cricket Festival is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable environment for all children and young people participating in the event. This Child Safeguarding Policy outlines our approach to ensuring the safety and well-being of every child involved in the festival.

Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to:

  • Protect children and young people from harm and abuse
  • Ensure that all staff, volunteers, and participants understand their roles and responsibilities in protecting children and young people
  • Create an environment that fosters trust, respect, and open communication

Scope
This policy applies to all individuals involved in the King's College Taunton Cricket Festival, including staff, volunteers, participants, and spectators.

Definitions
A child or young person is anyone under the age of 18 years.

Responsibilities
All staff and volunteers involved in the festival are responsible for the welfare and safety of the children and young people participating in the event. This includes:

  • Treating all children and young people with respect and dignity
  • Following the festival's code of conduct and behaviour guidelines
  • Reporting any concerns about a child's welfare to the designated Child Safeguarding Officer

Child Safeguarding Officer
The festival will appoint a designated Child Safeguarding Officer (CSO) responsible for overseeing the implementation of this policy. The CSO will:

  • Be appropriately trained and qualified in child safeguarding
  • Act as the first point of contact for any concerns or allegations of abuse
  • Maintain records of any reported incidents and ensure they are dealt with appropriately

Reporting Procedures
All concerns about a child's welfare should be reported to the designated Child Safeguarding Officer immediately. The CSO will then:

  • Assess the situation and determine the appropriate course of action
  • Contact the relevant authorities if necessary, including the police or social services
  • Maintain confidentiality, sharing information only on a need-to-know basis

Training and Awareness
All staff and volunteers will receive training on child safeguarding as part of their induction process. This will include:

  • Familiarisation with the festival's Child Safeguarding Policy
  • Guidance on recognising signs of abuse
  • Instructions on how to report concerns

Review
This policy will be reviewed annually, or sooner if required by changes in legislation, to ensure its continued effectiveness.

Contact Information
For any concerns or questions regarding child safeguarding at the King's College Taunton Cricket Festival, please get in touch with the designated Child Safeguarding Officer at KAParsons@kings-taunton.co.uk.