Safeguarding & Child Protection Policy (Parents & Carers)

Last updated: 28/12/2025

At AJN Fine Art, the safety and well-being of every child and young person is our highest priority. We are committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where children can explore creativity with confidence.

This policy explains how we safeguard children and young people aged 6–18 who attend our classes, workshops, and events.

Our Commitment to Safeguarding

AJN Fine Art is dedicated to:

  • Promoting the welfare and well-being of all children

  • Providing a safe and welcoming learning environment

  • Protecting children from harm, abuse, or neglect

  • Acting promptly and responsibly if concerns arise

Safeguarding is taken seriously by all staff, volunteers, and anyone working on behalf of AJN Fine Art.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

AJN Fine Art is committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive, and respectful environment where all children and families feel safe, valued, and supported.

We believe that creativity thrives in spaces where differences are respected and celebrated. We are committed to ensuring that no child is treated unfairly or discriminated against.

AJN Fine Art does not tolerate discrimination, bullying, harassment, or exclusion on the basis of:

  • age

  • disability

  • gender or gender identity

  • race, ethnicity, or nationality

  • religion or belief

  • sexual orientation

  • family background

  • any other protected characteristic

We take reasonable steps to:

  • remove barriers to participation where possible

  • support children with additional needs

  • respond appropriately to individual circumstances

  • promote kindness, respect, and positive behaviour

Any concerns relating to discrimination, bullying, or exclusion are taken seriously and will be managed in line with our safeguarding procedures.

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

We have a clear safeguarding structure in place.

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL):
Aimée Nicholls

The DSL is responsible for:

  • Managing safeguarding concerns

  • Ensuring safeguarding procedures are followed

  • Liaising with external safeguarding agencies where necessary

Any safeguarding concern will be handled sensitively, professionally, and in line with UK safeguarding guidance.

Safer Recruitment & Staff Training

To ensure children are cared for by suitable adults:

  • All staff and volunteers undergo enhanced DBS checks

  • The DSL completes specialist safeguarding training

  • All staff are provided with safeguarding guidance as part of induction and ongoing supervision

  • All staff are required to read, understand, and follow the AJN Fine Art Safeguarding Policy and Code of Conduct

Supervision & Safe Practice

We ensure that:

  • Children are appropriately supervised at all times

  • Clear professional boundaries are maintained

  • Physical contact is minimal, appropriate, and never intrusive

  • No staff member communicates with children via personal social media or private messaging

  • Approved procedures are followed for arrival, collection, and supervision

Online Safety

Where online content or sessions are used:

  • Only approved platforms are used

  • Parents/carers are informed of online activity

  • There are no private one-to-one online sessions

  • Online behaviour is monitored and age-appropriate

Photography & Use of Images

AJN Fine Art may photograph students and their artwork for learning records, promotional materials, and social media only where parental consent has been provided.

  • Consent is collected via online booking or consent forms

  • Parents may opt in or out at any time

  • Images are used respectfully and stored securely

  • Children’s full names are never shared publicly with images

What Happens If There Is a Concern?

If a safeguarding concern arises:

  • Staff follow clear internal safeguarding procedures

  • Concerns are reported immediately to the DSL

  • If necessary, the DSL may contact:

  • Children’s Social Care

  • The Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO)

  • The Police or emergency services

Our priority is always the safety and wellbeing of the child.

Confidentiality & Information Sharing

Safeguarding information is handled with care:

  • Information is shared only on a need-to-know basis

  • Records are stored securely and in line with GDPR

  • Parents/carers will be informed where appropriate, unless doing so could place a child at further risk

Health & Safety in the Art Space

We take steps to ensure a safe creative environment, including:

  • Using age-appropriate, non-toxic materials

  • Supervising tools and equipment at all times

  • Carrying out risk assessments for workshops and events

Working in Partnership with Parents & Carers

We believe safeguarding works best when we work together. We encourage parents and carers to:

  • Share any relevant information about their child

  • Speak to us if they have concerns

  • Contact us with questions about safeguarding procedures

Contact Us

If you have any questions or concerns about safeguarding at AJN Fine Art, please contact:

Email: Info@ajnfineart.co.uk
Designated Safeguarding Lead: Aimée Nicholls

Policy Review

This policy is reviewed annually or sooner if safeguarding guidance or legislation changes.