Child Protection Policy

Our commitment

The Guvnor Ace Foundation believes every child has the right to be treated with dignity, respect and care and to participate in Foundation activities without abuse, exploitation, neglect, discrimination or avoidable harm.

Child protection is a responsibility shared by everyone acting on behalf of or in connection with the Foundation.

The best interests of the child

Decisions involving children should place their safety, dignity and wellbeing at the centre of reasonable decision-making.

Children should be listened to respectfully and should never be pressured to share personal experiences for publicity, fundraising or organisational purposes.

Safe conduct around children

Foundation representatives are expected to maintain appropriate professional boundaries.

• Never physically, emotionally or sexually abuse a child.
• Never use humiliating, degrading or threatening language.
• Avoid unnecessary situations where an adult is isolated with a child without reasonable safeguards.
• Never exchange inappropriate private messages, money or gifts with a child.
• Do not favour, exploit or discriminate against children because of background, disability, gender, religion or economic circumstances.

Photography, video and children's stories

Images and stories involving children should be created and used respectfully and only where appropriate permission has been obtained.

Content should not unnecessarily reveal sensitive information, expose a child to stigma or danger, or portray children in a humiliating or exploitative manner.

Digital communication

Private or informal digital communication between Foundation representatives and children should be avoided unless clearly necessary, properly authorised and subject to appropriate safeguards.

Foundation communication channels should be used wherever reasonably possible.

Reporting a child-protection concern

Anyone who sees, hears about or reasonably suspects abuse, exploitation, unsafe conduct or inappropriate behaviour should report the concern promptly.

A person reporting a concern should record factual information and avoid conducting their own investigation where doing so could interfere with appropriate safeguarding action.

Responding to concerns

Child-protection concerns should be handled seriously, confidentially and proportionately.

Appropriate safeguarding or legal authorities should be involved where necessary, particularly where there is immediate danger, suspected criminal conduct or serious risk of harm.