Safeguarding Policy

Last updated: [09.04.26]


1Syllable Dance Company (“we”, “our”, “us”) is committed to providing a safe, respectful and inclusive environment for all participants, staff, freelancers and collaborators. This Safeguarding Policy sets out our commitment to protecting the wellbeing of all individuals involved in our work, with particular regard for children, young people and vulnerable adults. It outlines how we help prevent harm, abuse and inappropriate behaviour across all our activities, including workshops, classes, performances and programmes. We are dedicated to curating a culture of care, respect and accountability in everything we do.

1. Scope of the Policy

This policy applies to:

  • All staff, freelancers and contractors
  • Volunteers and collaborators
  • Participants in classes, workshops, and programmes
  • Any individual engaging with 1Syllable activities

All freelancers and external facilitators representing 1Syllable are required to follow this policy at all times.

2. Safeguarding Responsibility


Safeguarding Lead: Raliat, Oyewole-eletu, CEO


The Safeguarding Lead is responsible for:

  • Managing safeguarding concerns
  • Responding to incidents
  • Escalating issues where necessary
  • Ensuring safeguarding practices are followed

3. Our Safeguarding Principles


We are committed to:

  • Creating a safe and respectful environment
  • Treating all individuals with dignity and respect
  • Taking all safeguarding concerns seriously
  • Acting promptly and appropriately when concerns arise
  • Ensuring transparency and accountability in our processes

4. Working with Children and Young People


While 1Syllable does not currently operate regular programmes specifically for children, safeguarding standards are applied in any situation where individuals under 18 may be involved.

Age of Consent

  • We recognise 13 as the minimum age for digital consent in line with UK law
  • For anyone under this age, parental/guardian consent is required

Parental Consent

  • Consent is obtained through written forms where required
  • Parent/guardian contact details may be collected for safeguarding purposes

5. DBS Checks and Safer Recruitment


  • All staff and freelancers working with minors must have appropriate DBS checks
  • DBS status is recorded and stored securely
  • Only individuals deemed suitable will be allowed to work with young people

6. Code of Conduct for Staff and Freelancers

All representatives of 1Syllable must:

Professional Boundaries

  • Maintain appropriate professional boundaries at all times
  • Avoid favouritism or exclusive relationships with participants
  • Not engage in inappropriate or personal relationships with participants

Communication

  • Use official communication channels only (e.g. company email, booking systems)
  • Not contact participants through personal accounts
  • Redirect all enquiries through official platforms

One-to-One Interaction

  • Private coaching or mentoring is case-by-case only
  • Must be arranged through official channels
  • Must be conducted in a professional and appropriate environment

7. Physical Contact and Dance Practice


As a dance-based organisation, some physical interaction may be necessary.

We ensure:

  • Clear verbal consent is always obtained before physical contact
  • Contact is appropriate, necessary and respectful
  • Participants can refuse or withdraw consent at any time

8. Filming, Photography and Media Use

  • By booking, participants consent to filming and photography taking place during sessions and events
  • You may appear in promotional materials, social media and future campaigns
  • Individuals may opt out at any time
  • To opt out, notify us via email before attending and a 'opt out' wristband will be provided on the day

If a participant requests removal:

  • Content will be removed from future use
  • Existing published content may not always be retractable but will be reviewed case-by-case

9. Changing Facilities


  • Where possible, designated changing areas will be provided
  • If not available, participants are encouraged to arrive in appropriate attire
  • Privacy and dignity must always be respected

10. Reporting Safeguarding Concerns

How to Report:

Any safeguarding concern should be reported immediately to:

  • The Safeguarding Lead

Examples of Concerns:

  • Inappropriate behaviour
  • Abuse or suspected abuse
  • Boundary violations
  • Unsafe environments

11. Safeguarding Response Procedure


When a concern is raised:

1. Immediate Action

  • Ensure the individual is safe
  • Remove or minimise risk where possible

2. Record

  • Document details of the concern accurately

3. Assessment

  • The Safeguarding Lead assesses the situation

4. Escalation

  • If necessary, concerns will be escalated to:
  • Local safeguarding authorities
  • Relevant external agencies

5. Follow-Up

  • Appropriate action is taken
  • Processes are reviewed to prevent recurrence

12. External Reporting


Where required, 1Syllable will report safeguarding concerns to appropriate authorities in line with UK safeguarding laws and guidance.

13. Training and Awareness

  • All staff and freelancers are expected to complete safeguarding awareness training
  • Training requirements will be developed and implemented as the organisation grows
  • Safeguarding understanding is considered essential for all representatives

14. Data Protection and Confidentiality

  • Safeguarding information is handled sensitively and securely
  • Information is shared only on a need-to-know basis
  • Records are stored securely (e.g. Google Drive with restricted access)

15. Policy Review


This policy will be:

  • Reviewed annually or as required
  • Updated in line with legal or operational changes

17. Commitment Statement

1SYLLABLE LTD is committed to safeguarding as a core part of its practice.

We believe that creating safe, respectful environments is essential to building a strong and inclusive creative community.