Purpose and Commitment

Rainford Junction Festival is committed to ensuring the safety, welfare, and wellbeing of all attendees, with particular attention to children, young people, and vulnerable adults. We recognise our duty of care under the Children Act 1989 & 2004, Working Together to Safeguard Children (Statutory Guidance), and relevant local safeguarding partnership procedures.

Scope

This policy applies to all attendees of the festival including staff, volunteers, contractors, performers, and partners.

Principles

Zero tolerance - for abuse, neglect or exploitation.
Shared responsibility - safeguarding is everyone's responsibility.

Child-centred approach - the welfare of the child is paramount.

Transparency - clear reporting and accountability.

Roles & Responsibilities

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL):

Before the festival a DSL will be appointed and documented along with two deputy DSLs who will be available when the lead DSL is not.
All Staff & Volunteers must complete safeguarding training before the event and follow this policy.

Code of Conduct

Always act respectfully and appropriately towards children.

Avoid being alone with a child where possible.
No physical contact unless necessary for safety.
No exchange of personal contact details or social media connections.
Report any concerns immediately to the DSL.

Youngsters below 18

All youngsters below 18 must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times.

Safe Recruitment

All musicians and volunteers working with children in regulated activity will undergo appropriate DBS checks.
Roles will have clear safeguarding responsibilities.

Managing Concerns & Disclosures

Listen calmly and without judgment.

Do not promise confidentiality — explain you must share concerns with the DSL.
Record details factually (time, date, what was said, who was present).
Pass the report to the DSL immediately.

Lost or Found Children

A designated Child Safe Point will be clearly signposted and can be found in the safeguarded Scratch Band Village.

Lost Child Procedure:
Escort the child to the Safe Point

Notify the DSL and security

Verify the identity of the parent/guardian before release

Photography & Media

Parental/guardian consent must be obtained before photographing or filming children.

Official photographers/videographers must wear identification.
No unauthorised photography in children’s activity areas, especially the Scratch Band Village.

First Aid & Welfare

Qualified first aiders will be on site at all times.

Medical and welfare areas will be child-safe and staffed by vetted personnel.

Review & Monitoring

This policy will be reviewed annually after each festival or after any safeguarding incident, in consultation with local safeguarding partners.

Emergency Contacts

Police: 999 (emergency) / 101 (non-emergency)

St Helens Children's Services Emergency Duty Team for out-of-hours concerns: 0345 050 0148

NSPCC Helpline: 0808 800 5000