Safeguarding Policy
MACSAIL is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and
young people who engage with our services, programmes, and activities.
young people who engage with our services, programmes, and activities.
Last updated: January 2026
1. Policy Statement
Media Action for Child Safety and Information Literacy (MACSAIL) is
fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children
and vulnerable adults. We recognise our responsibility to take all
reasonable steps to protect children from harm, abuse, and exploitation.
Also, to provide safe environments both online and offline, and respond
appropriately to safeguarding concerns.
This policy aligns with guidance from NSPCC and UK safeguarding frameworks.
This policy aligns with guidance from NSPCC and UK safeguarding frameworks.
2. Scope of Policy
This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, trustees or directors, partners
and contractors. It also covers all MACSAIL activities including online
engagement (social media, digital training) and events, workshops, and
community outreach.
3. Legal Framework
This policy is informed by the Children Act 1989, the Children Act 2004
and the UK GDPR.
4. Definitions of Abuse
MACSAIL recognises the following types of abuse:
1. Physical Abuse – Harming a child physically
2. Emotional Abuse – Bullying, threats, intimidation, or psychologicalharm
3. Sexual Abuse – Any sexual activity involving a child
4. Neglect – Failure to meet basic needs
5. Online or Digital Abuse. These includes – Cyberbullying, Grooming, Exposure to harmful content.
1. Physical Abuse – Harming a child physically
2. Emotional Abuse – Bullying, threats, intimidation, or psychologicalharm
3. Sexual Abuse – Any sexual activity involving a child
4. Neglect – Failure to meet basic needs
5. Online or Digital Abuse. These includes – Cyberbullying, Grooming, Exposure to harmful content.
5. Safeguarding Principles
We operate under these principles:
1. The welfare of the child is paramount
2. All children have equal rights to protection
3. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility
4. Early intervention is critical
1. The welfare of the child is paramount
2. All children have equal rights to protection
3. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility
4. Early intervention is critical
6. Roles and Responsibilities
Safeguarding Lead (DSL)
MACSAIL will appoint a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)
responsible for managing concerns, reporting to authorities and
maintaining records. Staff and volunteers must complete safeguarding
training, follow this policy at all times and report concerns immediately.
7. Safer Recruitment
MACSAIL ensures identity verification, reference checks, and
background checks where applicable (e.g., DBS in the UK). No individual
will work with children without appropriate vetting.
8. Code of Conduct
All representatives must treat children with respect, maintainprofessional boundaries, use appropriate language, and report concerns.
Representatives must not engage in inappropriate physical contact,
communicate privately with children online, share personal contact
details and take photos without consent.
9. Online Safety Measures
Given MACSAIL’s digital focus, we promote safe internet use, avoid
private messaging with minors, use moderated platforms and monitor
digital interactions.
10. Photography and Media
We ensure written consent from parents or guardians. There shall be no
identifying details without permission. We will as well ensure safe
storage of images.
11. Reporting Safeguarding Concerns
If a child is in immediate danger, kindly contact emergency services (UK:
999). Reporting Procedure includes: Recording the concern (facts only),
report immediately to the designated safeguard lead while the DSL
assesses and escalates if needed.
For external reporting, concerns may be reported to the local
safeguarding authorities, Police and NSPCC helpline.
12. Data Protection & Confidentiality
We follow UK GDPR principles. Only necessary data is collected.
Information is securely stored, and safeguarding information is shared
only when required.
13. Risk Assessment
MACSAIL conducts safeguarding risk assessments for events,
workshops and online programmes.
14. Partnerships
We only collaborate with organisations that share safeguarding values
and have appropriate policies in place.
15. Training
All staff and volunteers will receive safeguarding training, and be
updated regularly.
16. Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed annually and after any safeguarding incident.
17. Commitment Statement
MACSAIL is committed to creating a safe environment where children
can Learn, Participate and Thrive without fear.
If you have any questions about this policy, please contact us at info@macsail.org.uk