Safeguarding Policy

 

Our Commitment to Safeguarding

 

We are committed to creating a safe, welcoming, and respectful environment for all visitors, including children, young people, and vulnerable adults. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility, and we take this duty seriously in every aspect of our work.

 

This policy outlines how we protect visitors during our reptile experiences, educational sessions, and community events.

 

Who This Policy Applies To

 

This policy applies to:

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• All staff and volunteers

• Anyone representing our organisation

• Visitors participating in our sessions

• Parents, guardians, and group leaders attending with children

 

Our Safeguarding Principles

 

We follow these core principles:

 

Safety first: The welfare of children and vulnerable adults is our top priority.

Respect and dignity: Everyone is treated with kindness, patience, and respect.

Clear boundaries: Staff maintain professional boundaries at all times.

Transparency: All activities are supervised and take place in appropriate settings.

Accountability: Concerns are taken seriously and acted upon promptly.

 

Supervision and Responsibilities

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• Children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent, guardian, teacher, or responsible adult at all times.

• Staff will never be alone with a child or vulnerable adult.

• Sessions are delivered in open, visible spaces to ensure transparency.

• Handling of animals is always supervised by trained staff.

 

Staff and Training

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• Staff are trained in safe handling of animals and visitor interaction.

• Staff understand their safeguarding responsibilities and know how to report concerns.

• Where required, staff may hold a valid DBS check or equivalent background screening.

 

Behaviour Expectations

 

We expect all visitors to:

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• Follow staff instructions during sessions

• Treat animals with care and respect

• Behave appropriately around children and vulnerable adults

• Report any concerns to a member of staff

 

We reserve the right to remove anyone whose behaviour puts others at risk.

 

Recognising and Reporting Concerns

 

We take all safeguarding concerns seriously.

 

Concerns may include:

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• Unsafe behaviour

• Inappropriate contact or communication

• Signs of distress, neglect, or harm

• Unsafe handling of animals

 

If you have a concern:

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• Speak to a member of staff immediately

• Concerns will be handled sensitively and confidentially

• We will take appropriate action and, where necessary, contact relevant authorities

 

Photography and Media

 

• Photos or videos of children are only taken with permission from a parent, guardian, or responsible adult.

• Visitors must not photograph other people’s children without consent.

• We may ask visitors to avoid filming during certain activities for safety reasons.

 

Online Safety

 

• We do not share personal information about children or vulnerable adults online.

• Any images shared on our website or social media are used with permission.

 

Reviewing This Policy

 

This policy is reviewed regularly to ensure it remains up to date, effective, and aligned with best practice.