Effective Date: August 6, 2026 At Young Actors Academy Sale (YAAS), we believe that the welfare of the child is paramount. Every child and young person who participates in our classes, rehearsals, and productions has the right to be protected from all types of abuse, neglect, and harm. This policy applies to all staff, directors, choreographers, volunteers, chaperones, and freelance artists working on behalf of our organisation.

1. Our Nominated Safeguarding Team.

We have designated specific individuals to lead our safeguarding measures:

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): Rachael McGuinness

DSL Contact Email: hello@weareyaas.co.uk

DSL Contact Phone: 07793730743

Deputy Safeguarding Lead: Zariah Bailey

Email: zariah@hotmail.co.uk

2. Staff Recruitment and Vetting

To maintain a secure environment, we enforce strict recruitment protocols:

Background Checks: All staff, tutors, and volunteers aged 18 and over working directly with children must hold a valid, enhanced background check (e.g., Enhanced DBS Check in the UK).

Training: All team members are kept up to date with safeguarding and child protection policies.

Physical Contact / Safe Touch: Direct physical contact (e.g., adjusting a costume, positioning a posture, or comforting a distressed child) must always be appropriate, professional, transparent, and done with the child’s explicit understanding and consent.

4. Digital Safety and Media Consent: Photography & Filming: No images or videos of students will be recorded or published online without written parental or guardian consent.

Social Media: Staff and volunteers are strictly forbidden from contacting students directly via personal social media accounts, text messages, or personal email. All communication goes through parents or official organization channels.

5. Sign-In, Sign-Out, and Attendance

Attendance Tracking: We maintain a detailed register for every class and rehearsal.

Collection Rules: Children are not permitted to leave the venue unsupervised unless we have written parental authorisation.

6. Procedures for Responding to a Concern or Disclosure.

If a child discloses an issue, or if a staff member suspects abuse, our team is trained to:

Listen Carefully: Listen without judgement and without leading or interrogating the child.

Be Honest: Reassure the child but make it clear that the information cannot be kept secret and must be shared with the DSL to keep them safe.

Record Data: Write a factual report immediately using the child’s exact words, noting the date and time.

Report Immediately: Pass the information directly to the Designated Safeguarding Lead, who will contact local Children’s Social Care or emergency services if necessary.