Catalyst Youth Trust
Safeguarding Policy
1. Policy Statement
Catalyst Youth Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children, young people, and vulnerable adults who participate in our activities. We believe all individuals have the right to be protected from harm, exploitation, and abuse.
2. Purpose and Scope
This policy outlines how Catalyst Youth Trust seeks to keep children and young people safe. It applies to all trustees, staff, volunteers, and partners, and governs our activities across schools, churches, and events.
3. Legal Framework and Guidance
Our policy is informed by key legislation and guidance including Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018), Keeping Children Safe in Education (2023), and guidance from the NSPCC and Thirtyone:Eight.
4. Roles and Responsibilities
Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): Louise Prockter
Deputy DSL: Ruth Watkins
Director: John Prockter
Chair of the Trust: Keith Bowley
Trustees: Chris Densham, Rick Kaul, Mark Billage
5. Safeguarding Procedures
All safeguarding concerns must be reported immediately to the DSL or Deputy DSL. Clear records must be kept and stored securely. Allegations against staff are handled following our Managing Allegations Procedure.
6. Safeguarding in Different Settings
A. Schools – We adhere to the safeguarding policy of the host school while working onsite.
B. Churches – We liaise with church safeguarding officers and follow agreed protocols.
C. Events – We apply our own safeguarding procedures outlined in our Events Procedure.
7. Safeguarding at Events
Catalyst Youth Trust ensures every event has a named DSL or Deputy DSL present.
All volunteers are briefed on safeguarding protocols and expectations. A sign-in/out system is used.
Unaccompanied young people are supported by event staff. Any safeguarding issues are managed by the DSL with the option to liaise with the hosting venue and external agencies as required.
8. Safer Recruitment
We follow safer recruitment principles including DBS checks, references, and safeguarding interviews for all staff and volunteers.
9. Training and Induction
All team members must complete safeguarding training appropriate to their role and receive regular updates.
10. Record Keeping and Confidentiality
Records of concerns are stored securely and only shared on a need-to-know basis. We follow GDPR requirements.
11. Managing Allegations Against Staff or Volunteers
Allegations are reported to the DSL who may contact the LADO or other relevant agencies in line with our procedure.
12. Policy Review and Approval
This policy is reviewed annually or after any significant incident. It is approved by the Board of Trustees.
Next Review: May 2026