Safeguarding Policy

Last updated: 10/21/2025

1. Policy Statement

Johnny Robinson trading as John Lindon Mathematics Tutor is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and young people in our care. We recognize that all children, regardless of age, disability, gender, racial heritage, religious belief, sexual orientation, or identity, have the right to protection from abuse.

This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, and anyone working on behalf of our tutoring service.

2. Key Principles

  • The welfare of the child is paramount
  • All children have the right to protection from abuse
  • All concerns and allegations of abuse will be taken seriously
  • Working in partnership with parents/carers and other agencies
  • Recruitment procedures help deter, reject, or identify people who might abuse children

3. Recognizing Abuse

We recognize that abuse can take many forms:

3.1 Physical Abuse

Hitting, shaking, throwing, poisoning, burning, or otherwise causing physical harm.

3.2 Emotional Abuse

Persistent emotional maltreatment causing severe adverse effects on emotional development.

3.3 Sexual Abuse

Forcing or enticing a child to take part in sexual activities, whether or not the child is aware of what is happening.

3.4 Neglect

Persistent failure to meet a child's basic physical and/or psychological needs.

4. Safe Working Practices

4.1 Session Guidelines

  • One-to-one sessions should ideally have a parent/guardian present or nearby
  • Sessions in family homes should be in a communal area where possible
  • Online sessions should follow digital safeguarding protocols
  • Maintain professional boundaries at all times
  • Keep records of any concerns or incidents

4.2 Communication Guidelines

  • All communication should be transparent and professional
  • Private messaging with students should be avoided
  • Parents/guardians should be included in all communications where appropriate
  • Social media contact with students is prohibited

4.3 Physical Contact

  • Physical contact should be minimal and appropriate
  • Any necessary contact should be in open view
  • Never use physical contact as a form of punishment
  • Respect personal space and cultural considerations

5. Online Safety

5.1 Online Tutoring Sessions

  • Use secure, reputable video conferencing platforms
  • Ensure parents/guardians are aware of online session times
  • Keep session recordings only when necessary and with consent
  • Maintain professional dress and behavior during video calls
  • Ensure appropriate backgrounds and settings

5.2 Digital Communication

  • Use professional email addresses and platforms
  • Keep copies of all digital communications
  • Report any inappropriate online behavior immediately
  • Educate students about online safety where appropriate

6. Reporting Procedures

6.1 If You Have Concerns

If you have any concerns about a child's welfare:

  1. Ensure the immediate safety of the child
  2. Contact the designated safeguarding officer immediately
  3. Make written records of your concerns as soon as possible
  4. Do not investigate or ask leading questions
  5. Maintain confidentiality

6.2 Emergency Contacts

  • Emergency Services: 999
  • Childline: 0800 1111
  • NSPCC Helpline: 0808 800 5000
  • Local Authority Children's Services: Contact your local council
  • Police Child Protection Unit: 101 (non-emergency)

6.3 Designated Safeguarding Officer

Johnny Robinson
Email: john@conwymaths.com
Phone: +44 7585 936073

7. Training and Support

  • All tutors receive safeguarding training appropriate to their role
  • Regular updates on safeguarding procedures and legislation
  • DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks where required
  • Ongoing professional development in child protection
  • Access to support and guidance when needed

8. Record Keeping

  • Accurate records of all safeguarding concerns and actions taken
  • Secure storage of confidential information
  • Regular review of safeguarding records
  • Appropriate sharing of information with relevant agencies
  • Retention of records in accordance with legal requirements

9. Whistleblowing

We encourage all staff and stakeholders to report concerns about poor or unsafe practice in relation to children's welfare. Anyone making such a report in good faith will be protected from victimization.

10. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or following any significant incident or change in legislation. Updates will be communicated to all relevant parties.

Additional Resources

Useful Websites:

  • NSPCC: nspcc.org.uk
  • Childline: childline.org.uk
  • Gov.UK Child Protection: gov.uk/topic/schools-colleges-childrens-services/safeguarding-children
  • Keeping Children Safe in Education: gov.uk/government/publications/keeping-children-safe-in-education

Declaration

I, Johnny Robinson, confirm that I am committed to implementing this safeguarding policy and ensuring the welfare and protection of all children in my care. I will report any concerns promptly and maintain the highest standards of professional conduct.

Signature: Johnny Robinson
Date: 10/21/2025
Position: Mathematics Tutor & Designated Safeguarding Officer