Safeguarding Policy

1. Introduction

Tiny Hearts Contact Services is a registered and accredited organisation dedicated to providing a safe, structured, and nurturing environment where children can maintain and develop meaningful relationships with non-residential parents, guardians, or carers in a controlled and supervised manner. The centre is founded on principles that prioritise the emotional, psychological, and physical well-being of every child in our care, ensuring that their experiences are positive, developmentally appropriate, and free from harm, distress, or manipulation.

Tiny Hearts recognises that safeguarding is a fundamental responsibility that requires diligence, awareness, and a proactive approach from all individuals involved in our services. Our commitment to safeguarding extends beyond basic compliance with legal requirements; we strive to cultivate a culture of safety, trust, and vigilance, ensuring that every staff member, volunteer, and trustee is fully equipped to protect children from potential harm.

1.1 Organisational Information

• Organisation Name: Tiny Hearts Contact Services
• Company Number: [14511364]
• Registered Address: [1 Balfour Road, Ilford, Essex, IG1 4HP]
• Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO): Irina Irinei
• Deputy Safeguarding Officer: [Moonisah Ali]
• Mission Statement: Tiny Hearts Contact Services is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children by delivering safe, structured, and supportive contact arrangements that uphold the best interests of each child while mitigating risks associated with conflict, abuse, or neglect.

This policy applies unequivocally to all staff members, trustees, managers, directors, volunteers, students, and any other individuals engaged in work on behalf of Tiny Hearts Contact Services, all of whom bear a collective responsibility to adhere to the safeguarding protocols outlined within this document. Every member of our team must recognise that child protection is a shared duty, requiring ongoing vigilance and adherence to best practices.

2. Recognising the Signs of Abuse

Children may be vulnerable to various forms of abuse and harm, and it is the duty of every Tiny Hearts Contact Services staff member to identify and respond appropriately to safeguarding concerns. Recognising abuse early can prevent further harm and ensure timely intervention.

All Tiny Hearts staff must remain vigilant, observant, and proactive in identifying signs of abuse and must report concerns immediately, even if there is no concrete proof. Observing patterns, recording concerns, and acting swiftly are essential steps in safeguarding a child’s well-being.

2.1 Categories of Abuse

Abuse can take multiple forms, and children may experience one or a combination of different types of abuse. Below are the primary categories of abuse, along with key signs that may indicate a child is at risk:

1. Physical Abuse

Physical abuse involves deliberate harm or injury to a child, including hitting, shaking, burning, poisoning, or using excessive force.

Possible Indicators of Physical Abuse:

• Unexplained injuries such as bruises, burns, fractures, bite marks, or scratches.
• Injuries in various stages of healing, suggesting repeated harm.
• Fear of physical contact, flinching, or recoiling from adults.
• Attempts to cover up injuries (e.g., wearing long sleeves in hot weather).
• Reluctance to explain injuries or giving conflicting stories about how they occurred.
• Aggressive, withdrawn, or fearful behaviour, especially around caregivers
• Injuries that resemble handprints, belt marks, or cigarette burns.

2. Emotional Abuse

Emotional abuse occurs when a child experiences persistent maltreatment or psychological harm that affects their development and self-worth. This may include verbal abuse, threats, humiliation, excessive criticism, or social isolation.

Possible Indicators of Emotional Abuse:

• Low self-esteem, extreme self-criticism, or feelings of worthlessness.
• Excessive fearfulness, anxiety, or nervousness in social interactions.
• Difficulty forming relationships or withdrawal from peers and adults.
• Delayed emotional or intellectual development.
• Displaying self-harming behaviours or suicidal thoughts.
• Unusual or extreme reactions to normal situations (e.g., overreaction to minor mistakes).
• Repeated statements such as “I’m not good enough” or “I always mess up”.

3. Sexual Abuse

Sexual abuse involves forcing or coercing a child into sexual activities, including inappropriate touching, sexual exploitation, exposure to sexual content, or grooming.

Possible Indicators of Sexual Abuse:

• Difficulty walking, sitting, or complaints of genital pain.
• Bruising, bleeding, or swelling around private areas.
• STIs, pregnancy, or recurrent UTIs in young children.
• Knowledge of sexual behaviour that is inappropriate for their age.
• Use of sexually explicit language or behaviour that is not age appropriate.
• Fear or avoidance of specific people, places, or activities.
• Secretive behaviour, nightmares, or bedwetting.
• Sudden changes in personality, aggression, or withdrawal.
• Online exploitation signs, such as a child receiving gifts or having secretive interactions with adults online.

4. Neglect

Neglect occurs when a child’s basic needs such as food, shelter, medical care, or supervision are consistently unmet. This may be due to intentional neglect, parental substance abuse, mental health issues, or extreme poverty.

Possible Indicators of Neglect:

• Constant hunger, stealing or hoarding food, or significant weight loss.
• Poor hygiene, dirty clothing, or severe body odour.
• Frequent illnesses, untreated medical conditions, or lack of immunisations.
• Persistent fatigue, falling asleep in class, or lack of supervision.
• Inappropriate clothing for weather conditions (e.g., wearing shorts in winter).
• Frequent absences from school or late arrivals with no valid reason.
• Living in hazardous or unsafe conditions.
• Being left alone for extended periods or taking on the role of caregiver for siblings.

2.2 Additional Forms of Abuse and Safeguarding Risks

While the four main categories cover traditional forms of abuse, it is essential to recognise modern safeguarding concerns that pose significant risks to children.

Child Criminal Exploitation (CCE) & County Lines

• Involves children being coerced or manipulated into criminal activities, such as drug trafficking, shoplifting, or gang involvement.
• Signs include:
  • Unexplained gifts, money, or new possessions.
  • Involvement with older individuals or gangs.
  • Missing from home or school for extended periods.
  • Carrying weapons or appearing fearful of police intervention.

Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE)

• Involves manipulating or coercing children into sexual activities in exchange for gifts, money, or affection.
• Signs include:
  • Unexplained new clothing, phones, or gifts.
  • Secretive online activity or having multiple social media accounts.
  • Associating with older individuals or controlling relationships.
  • Regularly staying out late or going missing.

Online Grooming & Abuse

• Abusers may exploit children via social media, gaming platforms, or messaging apps.
• Signs include:
  • Spending excessive time online and being secretive about interactions.
  • Receiving messages from unknown adults.
  • Possession of explicit images or being pressured to send them.

Domestic Abuse & Exposure to Violence

• Witnessing domestic violence can be as harmful as direct abuse.
• Signs include:
  • Extreme fear of loud noises, aggression, or shouting.
  • Protective behaviour towards one parent against the other.
  • Physical signs of abuse on one or both parents.

Radicalisation & Extremism

• Vulnerable children may be targeted by extremist groups through social media or community networks.
• Signs include:
  • Expressing extreme ideological beliefs or hatred towards certain groups.
  • Sudden withdrawal from family and friends.
  • Possession of extremist materials.

2.3 Staff Responsibility in Recognising and Reporting Abuse

All Tiny Hearts staff members are mandated reporters—this means they must report any suspicions of abuse immediately, even if there is no direct evidence.

Documenting Concerns:

• Staff must keep detailed, factual records of:
  • The date, time, and observations of concerning behaviour.
  • Any direct disclosures made by the child.
  • Avoid assumptions, opinions, or personal interpretations.

Reporting Abuse:

• Staff must report concerns to the Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO) without delay.
• If immediate danger is suspected, staff must call emergency services (999) or contact local safeguarding authorities.
• Staff must not attempt to investigate themselves—all concerns must be escalated to the appropriate agencies.

Recognising the signs of abuse is the first step in safeguarding children. By remaining vigilant, documenting concerns accurately, and acting decisively, Tiny Hearts staff play a vital role in protecting children from harm and ensuring they receive the support they need.

3. Responding to a Child’s Disclosure of Abuse

Children may disclose abuse to a trusted adult at any time, and how the response is handled can significantly impact their safety, well-being, and willingness to seek help in the future. It is essential that all Tiny Hearts Contact Services staff understand the correct procedures for responding to disclosures with sensitivity, professionalism, and compliance with safeguarding policies.

This section outlines how staff should listen, respond, and escalate concerns effectively while ensuring the child feels heard, supported, and protected.

3.1 How to Listen to a Child’s Disclosure

When a child makes a disclosure, staff must handle the conversation calmly, carefully, and with compassion. The child may feel scared, ashamed, or confused, and it is crucial to create an environment where they feel safe and supported. The way staff respond can significantly impact the child’s willingness to share further and their overall well-being.

Tiny Hearts Practices for Listening to a Child’s Disclosure:

1. Stay Calm and Listen Attentively

• Avoid displaying shock, disbelief, or distress, as this may cause the child to shut down or feel guilty about speaking up.
• Maintain eye contact, use a calm tone, and adopt a supportive posture, demonstrating genuine concern and patience.
• Avoid making assumptions about the situation or the people involved.

2. Let the Child Speak Freely

• Allow the child to share their experience in their own words, without interruption or pressure to elaborate.
• Do not ask leading questions or suggest possible scenarios, as this can impact the accuracy of the child’s disclosure.
• If the child struggles to articulate their thoughts, use simple prompts such as:
  • “Can you tell me more about that?”
  • “It’s okay to take your time.”
  • “Is there anything else you want to share?”

3. Avoid Leading Questions or Suggesting Answers

• Do not ask “why” questions that might make the child feel blamed or responsible for the situation.
• Stick to open-ended questions that allow the child to narrate their experience in their own way:
  • “Can you tell me what happened?”
  • “Who was there?”
  • “What happened next?”
• Refrain from suggesting names or possible explanations, as this can influence the child’s memory and testimony.

4. Reassure the Child

• Affirm that they have done the right thing by speaking up.
• Use reassuring statements such as:
  • “I’m really glad you told me.”
  • “This is not your fault.”
  • “We are going to help keep you safe.”
• Avoid making promises about the outcome, as investigations and legal proceedings may vary.

5. Do Not Promise Secrecy

• It is crucial to be honest about the next steps. Explain that while their disclosure will be kept private, certain people must be informed to ensure their safety.
• Example:
  • “I may need to talk to someone who can help you, but I will only tell people who need to know.”

6. Record the Conversation Immediately

• Write down the disclosure as soon as possible while details are fresh.
• Use the child’s exact words without editing, summarising, or interpreting.
• Note:
  • The time, date, and location of the conversation.
  • Any other people present during the disclosure.
  • The child’s emotional state and physical condition.

3.2 Actions for Staff After a Disclosure

Once a disclosure has been made, staff must take immediate and appropriate action to ensure the child’s safety and follow the correct safeguarding procedures.

Immediate Steps to Take:

1. Ensure the Child’s Immediate Safety

• If the child is in imminent danger, call emergency services (999) immediately.
• If the risk is urgent but not immediate, ensure the child is not left alone or with the alleged perpetrator.

2. Report the Disclosure Without Delay

• Inform the Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO) immediately, providing all relevant details.
• If the DSO is unavailable, escalate the concern to senior management or an external safeguarding authority.

3. Document the Disclosure Objectively

• Use clear, factual language and avoid including personal opinions or assumptions.
• Include:
  • The child’s exact words where possible.
  • Observations of the child’s demeanour, body language, or physical state.
  • Any actions taken before and after the disclosure.
• Do not investigate or attempt to verify details—this is the responsibility of safeguarding professionals.

4. Follow Up with the Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO)

• Ensure that the disclosure has been acted upon appropriately.
• If there are concerns about inaction, escalate the matter to external safeguarding agencies.

3.3 Preventing Over-Interrogation by Parents

Parents play an important role in supporting their children, but they should not pressure the child into providing more details or unknowingly influence their testimony. Tiny Hearts staff have a duty to ensure that parents:

• Do not repeatedly ask the child for details as this can cause distress and may alter the child’s memory of events.
• Avoid suggesting answers or making assumptions about what may have happened.
• Do not discuss the disclosure in front of others, especially if legal or safeguarding investigations are pending.
• Encourage the child to express themselves freely rather than guiding their responses.
• Refer any questions to safeguarding professionals who are trained to handle disclosures appropriately.

3.4 When to Involve External Agencies

If a safeguarding concern is serious, the Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO) must refer the case to external agencies such as:

• Local Authority Children’s Services (for child protection concerns).
• Police (999) (for immediate danger or criminal offences).
• National Safeguarding Boards or Child Protection Units (for further guidance).
• Family Courts (if legal intervention is required in supervised contact cases).
• NACCC (National Association of Child Contact Centres).

3.5 Supporting a Child After a Disclosure

After a child has disclosed abuse, they may experience anxiety, fear, guilt, or distress. Tiny Hearts staff should provide emotional support and reassurance by:

• Maintaining a consistent, reassuring presence in the child’s environment.
• Encouraging the child to express their feelings in a safe and supportive space.
• Referring the child to counselling or professional support services if appropriate.
• Ensuring that the child knows they are not to blame for the abuse.

If the child chooses not to discuss the matter further, respect their decision while ensuring ongoing safeguarding monitoring.

3.6 Key Responsibilities of Staff in Handling Disclosures

Action	Why It’s Important
Listen without judgment	Encourages trust and open communication
Avoid leading questions	Prevents influencing the child’s account
Reassure the child	Helps reduce fear and anxiety
Report immediately to the DSO	Ensures timely intervention and protection
Document factually and objectively	Maintains accurate records for safeguarding procedures
Do not promise secrecy	Ensures transparency and compliance with safeguarding laws
Follow up on safeguarding action taken	Confirms that the child receives necessary protection

All Tiny Hearts staff play a vital role in safeguarding children and must be fully prepared to respond to disclosures appropriately. By following clear, structured procedures, staff can ensure that disclosures are handled with sensitivity, professionalism, and legal compliance while prioritising the child’s safety and well-being.

4. Staff Training and Safeguarding Preparedness

Tiny Hearts Contact Services mandates comprehensive, ongoing safeguarding training for all staff, volunteers, and trustees to ensure they are well-equipped to protect children and vulnerable individuals. This training is essential for maintaining high standards of care, compliance with safeguarding legislation, and fostering a culture of vigilance and accountability.

The training framework is regularly reviewed to reflect emerging safeguarding risks, updates in legal requirements, and best practices.

4.1 Initial and Ongoing Training

All personnel must complete the following mandatory safeguarding training:

Induction Training for New Staff and Volunteers

• All new staff, volunteers, and trustees must complete safeguarding induction training before assuming their duties.
• Training includes an overview of safeguarding policies, reporting procedures, child protection laws, and professional boundaries.
• Covers how to recognise signs of abuse, neglect, exploitation, and domestic violence.
• Explains whistleblowing procedures and the importance of safeguarding accountability.

Annual Safeguarding Refresher Training

• All staff are required to attend annual refresher training to ensure they remain updated on:
  • Changes in safeguarding legislation and organisational policies.
  • Newly identified risks, such as online abuse trends, radicalisation methods, and emerging forms of exploitation.
  • Case studies and scenario-based exercises to reinforce best practices in responding to disclosures and concerns.

4.2 Specialised Training Modules

In addition to standard safeguarding training, specialist training equips staff with advanced knowledge to handle specific safeguarding challenges.

Training in Child Exploitation & Emerging Risks

• Covers child sexual exploitation (CSE), child criminal exploitation (CCE), human trafficking, and modern slavery.
• Online safety training to identify risks associated with grooming, cyberbullying, and social media exploitation.
• Understanding the impact of radicalisation and extremism and implementing the Prevent Duty.

Trauma-Informed Safeguarding Approaches

• Helps staff understand the effects of trauma on children’s behaviour, emotions, and learning.
• Training on attachment disorders, adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), and post-traumatic stress responses.
• Strategies for providing supportive and non-retraumatising interactions with vulnerable children.

Behaviour Management and Crisis Intervention Training

• Equips staff with positive behaviour support techniques for handling challenging situations.
• Techniques for de-escalation, conflict resolution, and non-verbal communication strategies.
• Use of emotion coaching to help children regulate emotions in distressing situations.

4.3 Additional Training for Contact Supervisors

The Contact Supervisor plays a key role in ensuring a safe, structured, and child-focused contact environment. To effectively meet their responsibilities, they must undergo additional training in:

4.3.1. Advanced Safeguarding Leadership Training

• Understanding the responsibilities of a safeguarding lead and how to support frontline staff.
• Developing effective reporting and documentation skills for safeguarding concerns.
• Ensuring multi-agency collaboration with local authorities, law enforcement, and child protection services.

4.3.2. Conflict Resolution & Mediation Training

• Essential for managing disputes between parents and ensuring child safety during contact sessions.
• Training in non-biased supervision, fair decision-making, and handling emotional outbursts professionally.
• Techniques to de-escalate conflict before it escalates into aggression or violence.

4.3.3. Risk Assessment & Crisis Management Training

To ensure the safety and well-being of children and vulnerable individuals, all Contact Supervisors must undergo specialised training in risk assessment and crisis management. This training equips staff with the skills, knowledge, and procedures necessary to identify potential risks, take preventative measures, and respond effectively to safeguarding concerns during supervised contact sessions.

3.1 Identifying and Assessing Safeguarding Risks in Contact Sessions

Contact Supervisors play a critical role in monitoring interactions, assessing risk factors, and taking immediate action to protect children. Training focuses on:

Recognising high-risk situations within contact sessions, including:

• Non-verbal cues of distress, fear, or discomfort in children.
• Signs of parental coercion, emotional manipulation, or undue influence on a child.
• Indicators of emotional, physical, or psychological harm.
• Risks associated with domestic abuse survivors and perpetrators attending contact sessions.
• Observing hostile, aggressive, or controlling behaviour that may compromise the child’s welfare.

Understanding situational risk factors such as:

• Contact occurring in cases involving domestic abuse, substance misuse, or mental health concerns.
• The presence of court orders, restraining orders, or history of parental conflict.
• Supervised contact occurring after a long period of separation (which may trigger anxiety in the child).
• External threats, such as potential unauthorised third-party involvement or planned abduction attempts.

Conducting dynamic risk assessments in real-time by:

• Continuously observing interactions and adjusting supervision levels when necessary.
• Identifying patterns of behaviour that indicate a child’s increasing distress or discomfort.
• Liaising with other safeguarding professionals to share concerns and escalate matters if required.

3.2 Recognising Signs of Distress, Coercion, and Emotional Manipulation

Contact Supervisors must be highly trained to identify subtle signs of distress and coercion in children. Training includes:

Recognising Emotional Distress:

• Unexplained changes in demeanour, withdrawal, or reluctance to engage in contact.
• Physical symptoms such as trembling, nausea, excessive sweating, or panic attacks.
• Forced compliance or unnatural enthusiasm, indicating possible external pressure.

Identifying Coercion and Manipulation:

• Parental coaching children repeating scripted statements or exhibiting guilt or fear when expressing their own opinions.
• Attempts by a parent to emotionally manipulate or alienate the child from the other parent.
• Subtle bribery, guilt-tripping, or excessive questioning designed to influence the child’s perception.

Understanding Behavioural Indicators of Fear or Threats:

• Children displaying heightened anxiety before, during, or after contact sessions.
• Avoidance of eye contact, clinging to staff, or reluctance to leave the centre.
• Physical signs such as flinching, recoiling, or defensive postures when approached by certain individuals.

3.3 Action Planning for Emergency Situations

Supervised contact sessions may involve unpredictable and high-risk scenarios. Contact Supervisors are trained in crisis management protocols to ensure immediate and appropriate action in safeguarding emergencies.

Key emergency scenarios and response plans include:

1. Parental Abduction Risk

Indicators of Risk:

• One parent has made verbal or written threats to abduct the child.
• There is a history of international abduction attempts or concerns about passports being obtained without permission.
• A parent is attempting to remove the child from the centre against court orders or agreed arrangements.

Emergency Response:

• Immediately secure all exit points and notify security or law enforcement.
• Prevent the child from leaving the premises unless clearly authorised under court orders.
• Alert designated safeguarding officers and senior management.
• Follow pre-agreed security measures such as notifying local authorities and border control if necessary.

2. Child Endangerment or Suspected Harm During Contact

Indicators of Risk:

• A child displays visible injuries, extreme fear, or reluctance to engage with a parent.
• A parent is observed making inappropriate comments, threats, or attempts to isolate the child.
• There are concerns about a parent being under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Emergency Response:

• Immediately intervene and remove the child from the situation if necessary.
• Report concerns to the Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO) and take detailed notes.
• Escalate concerns to social services, the police, or child protection agencies.
• Where applicable, terminate the contact session and inform relevant authorities.

3. Domestic Violence Threats or Aggressive Behaviour

Indicators of Risk:

• A parent or visitor becomes verbally or physically aggressive towards staff or the other parent.
• There is an escalation in hostile behaviour, shouting, or physical intimidation.
• A parent is making threatening remarks or attempting to violate contact session rules.

Emergency Response:

• De-escalate the situation using non-confrontational communication techniques.
• Alert security or law enforcement if there is an immediate risk of harm.
• Ensure the child’s safety by removing them from the conflict zone.
• Terminate the session if safety cannot be guaranteed.
• File an incident report and inform social services or relevant child protection authorities.

3.4 Reporting and Documentation of Risk Incidents

All safeguarding incidents must be accurately recorded, reported, and escalated as per the organisation’s safeguarding policy. Training includes:

• Completing risk assessment reports with precise details of observations and concerns.
• Filing incident reports immediately after any safeguarding concern arises.
• Escalating concerns to safeguarding leads, local authorities, and law enforcement when necessary.
• Ensuring confidentiality while maintaining detailed records for future legal proceedings.

3.5 Multi-Agency Collaboration and Safeguarding Coordination

Risk assessment and crisis management training also focus on collaborating with external safeguarding agencies to enhance protection measures. Contact Supervisors are trained to:

Work closely with:

• Local safeguarding boards, child protection teams, and social services.
• Law enforcement agencies, particularly in high-risk child protection cases.
• Family courts to ensure compliance with court-mandated contact arrangements.
• Mental health and trauma specialists for children experiencing distress.

Coordinating multi-agency meetings to discuss risk management strategies for high-risk cases.
Participating in safeguarding audits and case reviews to improve safeguarding effectiveness.

By implementing rigorous risk assessment and crisis management training, Tiny Hearts Contact Services ensures that Contact Supervisors are fully equipped to safeguard children, manage risks, and respond effectively to emergencies. This training plays a critical role in preventing harm, ensuring compliance with safeguarding legislation, and fostering a safe environment for supervised contact.

4. Child-Cantered Practice Training

• Ensuring contact sessions prioritise the well-being of the child and promote positive parent-child relationships.
• Training in effective communication with children, active listening techniques, and child-friendly debriefing methods.
• Understanding the psychological impact of separation and supervised contact on children.

4.4 Continuous Professional Development (CPD) & Monitoring

Tiny Hearts Contact Services is committed to continuous professional development for all staff. This includes:

• Regular workshops and briefings on emerging safeguarding trends.
• Access to external training courses, webinars, and conferences.
• Supervisory coaching and peer mentoring programs for Contact Supervisors.
• Performance evaluations to assess safeguarding competency and identify further training needs.
• Collaboration with safeguarding professionals to ensure training remains relevant, up-to-date, and effective.

By implementing this structured training framework, Tiny Hearts Contact Services ensures that all staff—especially Contact Supervisors—are fully equipped to safeguard children, manage contact sessions effectively, and respond appropriately to safeguarding concerns.

5. Responsibilities of the Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO)

The Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO), Irina Irinei, is responsible for ensuring that safeguarding policies, procedures, and practices remain robust, effective, and consistently implemented across the organisation. The DSO plays a critical role in maintaining a safe and secure environment for all individuals, particularly children and vulnerable adults, by adhering to safeguarding legislation, best practices, and organisational policies.

Key Responsibilities:

• Overseeing Safeguarding Concerns and Disclosures:
  • Receiving, assessing, and managing safeguarding concerns, disclosures, and allegations.
  • Ensuring appropriate action is taken in accordance with safeguarding policies and procedures.
  • Maintaining accurate and confidential records of all safeguarding incidents.
• Liaising with External Safeguarding Agencies:
  • Collaborating with local authorities, law enforcement, child protection services, and other relevant safeguarding agencies.
  • Making timely referrals to appropriate external organisations when necessary.
  • Acting as the primary point of contact for safeguarding inquiries from external bodies.
• Training and Development of Staff:
  • Ensuring all staff members receive comprehensive safeguarding training upon induction and at regular intervals.
  • Providing ongoing professional development opportunities, including refresher courses and updates on safeguarding legislation.
  • Supporting staff in understanding their safeguarding responsibilities and ensuring they feel confident in reporting concerns.
• Policy Implementation and Compliance:
  • Regularly reviewing and updating safeguarding policies to align with legal requirements and best practices.
  • Conducting risk assessments to identify and mitigate potential safeguarding risks within the organisation.
  • Ensuring that safeguarding measures are effectively integrated into the organisation’s daily operations.
• Providing Support and Guidance:
  • Offering guidance and support to staff, volunteers, and individuals affected by safeguarding issues.
  • Promoting a culture of openness and vigilance, where safeguarding is a shared responsibility.
  • Ensuring that individuals who raise concerns receive appropriate support and protection from retaliation.
• Monitoring and Reporting:
  • Conducting regular audits and evaluations of safeguarding practices within the organisation.
  • Preparing reports on safeguarding incidents, trends, and improvements for senior management and regulatory bodies.
  • Identifying areas for improvement and implementing necessary changes to enhance safeguarding effectiveness.

6. External Agency Engagement

Where safeguarding concerns arise that require escalation beyond internal procedures, Tiny Hearts will engage with the appropriate external agencies to ensure the welfare of the child is prioritised. These agencies include:

• Redbridge Children’s Social Care (CPAT)
  • Phone: 020 8708 3885 (Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm)
  • Out of Hours: 020 8708 5897
  • Email: cpat.referrals@redbridge.gov.uk
• CAFCASS (Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service)
  • Phone: 0300 456 4000
  • Website: www.cafcass.gov.uk
• NACCC (National Association of Child Contact Centres)
  • Phone: 0115 948 4557
  • Website: www.naccc.org.uk
• NSPCC (National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children)
  • Helpline: 0808 800 5000
  • Website: www.nspcc.org.uk
• Police (Emergency Services)
  • Dial: 999

7. Important Contact Numbers

Service	Contact Details
Tiny Hearts Safeguarding Helpline	07342 952300
Tiny Hearts Emergency Helpline	07342 952300
Police (Emergency)	999
Redbridge Children’s Social Care (CPAT)	020 8708 3885 (Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm) / 020 8708 5897 (Out of Hours)
	Email: cpat.referrals@redbridge.gov.uk
	Website: www.redbridgescp.org.uk
CAFCASS	0300 456 4000
	Website: www.cafcass.gov.uk
NACCC	0115 948 4557
	Website: www.naccc.org.uk
NSPCC	0808 800 5000
	Website: www.nspcc.org.uk
Redbridge Safeguarding Children Partnership	020 8708 5282
	Website: www.redbridgescp.org.uk

8. Final Note

All staff, volunteers, and affiliated individuals at Tiny Hearts Contact Services are expected to uphold a proactive safeguarding culture. This includes acting ethically, recognising signs of abuse or neglect, and responding promptly and appropriately to concerns.

This safeguarding policy must be embedded in daily practice, subject to regular review, and dynamically adapted in line with legislative updates and emerging safeguarding challenges in society.

• Appendix 1: Safeguarding Concern Reporting Form
• Appendix 2: Children’s Charts
• Appendix 3: Safeguarding Leaflet
• Appendix 4: Safeguarding Policy Acknowledgment Form
• Appendix 5: Supervised Contact Safeguarding Flowchart