Dataninja Child Safeguarding Policy

Last update: 27th August 2024. Download the pdf here.

1. Introduction

Dataninja is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all children involved in our educational programs. This Child Safeguarding Policy outlines our commitment to protect children from harm, abuse, and exploitation, in compliance with the guidelines provided by Keeping Children Safe.

2. Policy Statement

Dataninja believes that all children have the right to a safe environment where they can learn and grow without fear of harm. We are dedicated to promoting the welfare of children and implementing measures to protect them in all our activities.

3. Scope

This policy applies to all Dataninja employees, volunteers, contractors, and partners involved in our educational activities and programs.

4. Definitions

• Child: Any individual under the age of 18.
• Child Abuse: Any form of physical, emotional, or sexual mistreatment or lack of care that leads to injury or harm.

5. Safeguarding Principles

• Best Interests of the Child: The welfare of the child is paramount.
• Zero Tolerance: Dataninja has a zero-tolerance approach to any form of abuse or exploitation.
• Confidentiality: All concerns and reports will be handled with the utmost confidentiality.
• Empowerment: Children will be encouraged to speak up about any concerns or issues they face.

6. Risk Assessment

We regularly conduct risk assessments to identify potential safeguarding risks within our programs and activities. These assessments help us implement effective strategies to mitigate identified risks.

7. Code of Conduct

All staff, volunteers, and partners must adhere to the following code of conduct:

• Treat all children with respect and dignity.
• Do not engage in any behavior that could be considered abusive or inappropriate.
• Avoid situations where you are alone with a child unless necessary and ensure transparency in such situations.
• Report any concerns or allegations of child abuse immediately.

8. Recruitment and Vetting

Dataninja employs rigorous recruitment and vetting procedures to ensure that all staff and volunteers working with children are suitable for their roles. This includes:

• Background checks
• Verification of references
• Interviews focusing on safeguarding attitudes and experiences

9. Monitoring and Evaluation

We continuously monitor and evaluate our safeguarding practices to ensure they are effective. Feedback from children, parents, staff, and partners is encouraged and used to improve our policies and procedures.

10 Communication

Our safeguarding policy is communicated to all stakeholders, including staff, volunteers, partners, and the children and families we work with. We ensure that everyone understands their role in safeguarding children.

11. Legal and Regulatory Compliance

Dataninja complies with all relevant local, national, and international laws and regulations regarding child protection. We strive to exceed these standards through our commitment to best practices in safeguarding.

125. Review

This policy is reviewed annually and whenever there are significant changes in our activities or legal requirements. Any updates or changes are communicated to all stakeholders promptly.

13. Contact Information

For any concerns or queries regarding this policy, please contact our designated safeguarding officer:

Nicola Bruno, Founder and Administrator, [email protected] , +393475402693