Child Protection Policy

WishWorks fully recognises its responsibilities for child protection.

All children have a right to protection from abuse, violence and exploitation. WishWorks aim to create a safe environment for any children who we are working with.

Our policy applies to all self employed staff and volunteers working in the organisation.

We Will:

• ensure we practice safe recruitment in checking the suitability of staff and volunteers to work with children
• establish and maintain an environment where children feel secure, are encouraged to talk, and are listened to
• ensure all staff and volunteers understand their responsibilities in being alert to the signs of abuse and responsibility for referring any concerns to the school or organisation with which we are working
• It is not WishWorks’ task to decide whether a child has been abused but to refer concerns to the correct authorities

Our Aim:

• To treat others as we would expect them to treat us
• Provide an example we wish others to follow
• Ensure that another adult is present when we are in the company of young people (ideally mixed genders)
• When it is not possible to have another adult present, (for example when one adult must administer 1st aid) leave doors open and take more than one child with you. Try to never be alone with one child
• Respect a person's right to privacy
• Encourage young people and adults to feel comfortable and caring enough to point out attitudes and behaviour they do not like
• Remember someone might misinterpret our actions and comments, no matter how well intentioned
• Be aware of the possible implications of  physical contact with young people