Little Sprouts Safeguarding Policy

Purpose
Little Sprouts is committed to creating a safe, nurturing environment where children can explore nature, creativity, and wellbeing. This policy outlines our approach to safeguarding all children who attend our sessions, workshops, and events.

Scope
This policy applies to all Little Sprouts activities, including public sessions, school workshops, private parties, and community events. It covers all staff, volunteers, and collaborators working under the Little Sprouts name.

Key Principles

  • Child safety is paramount in all planning, delivery, and communication.

  • All children are treated with respect, regardless of age, ability, background, or beliefs.

  • Activities are age-appropriate, inclusive, and designed with wellbeing in mind.

  • Natural materials are checked for safety, and any risks are assessed and mitigated.

  • Parents/carers remain responsible for their children during public sessions unless otherwise agreed.

Roles and Responsibilities

  • Louise Elliston, Founder and Creative Director, is the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).

  • Louise is responsible for:

    • Risk assessments and session planning

    • Responding to safeguarding concerns

    • Liaising with schools and venues on safeguarding protocols

    • Ensuring all collaborators understand safeguarding expectations

Procedures

  • Risk assessments are carried out for all venues, materials, and activities.

  • Emergency contact details are collected for school-based or drop-off sessions.

  • First aid provision is available at all sessions, and incidents are recorded.

  • Safeguarding concerns are taken seriously and reported to appropriate authorities or school DSLs if needed.

  • Photography and social media: Consent is always obtained before sharing images of children.

Working with Schools

  • Little Sprouts aligns with school safeguarding policies during workshops and assemblies.

  • Louise is happy to liaise with school DSLs or Sustainability Champions to ensure sessions meet safeguarding and curriculum standards.

Contact

For any safeguarding queries or concerns, please contact:
Louise Elliston
Email: louise@littlesproutsuk.co.uk
Phone: 07809294857