Section 1

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that AMS provides a safe, respectful, and supportive environment for everyone, with particular attention to the welfare of children aged 14-18 and vulnerable adults.

We recognise our responsibility to safeguard from harm those who may be at risk, and to respond appropriately to concerns.

Scope

This policy applies to:

• Trustees
• Members and visitors
• Workshop facilitators, contractors, and partners
• All activities run by or in association with Ashfield Makerspace
  

Principles

• Wellbeing first: The welfare of young people (14+) and vulnerable adults takes precedence.
• Respect and inclusion: Everyone has the right to be treated with dignity, fairness, and without discrimination.
• Empowerment: Young people (14+) and vulnerable adults are encouraged to participate actively and safely.
• Shared responsibility: Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.
• Confidentiality: Concerns will be handled sensitively and only shared when necessary.

Code of Conduct

All members, and visitors must:

• Treat others with respect and kindness.
• Use tools and equipment safely and responsibly.
• Never engage in bullying, harassment, abuse, or exploitative behaviour.
• Avoid being alone in a closed space with a young person (14+) or vulnerable adult.
• Report any safeguarding concerns immediately.

Young people (14+) and vulnerable adults must:

• Follow health and safety rules.
• Act respectfully towards others.
• Be supervised in workshops unless deemed competent and authorised by staff.

Safeguarding Lead

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): Teresa Jackson info@makerspaceashfield.org.uk
Trustees DBS checked


Responsibilities:

• Receiving and responding to safeguarding concerns.
• Keeping confidential records of concerns and actions.
• Liaising with external safeguarding agencies if needed.

Supervision and Access

• Children under 14 cannot access the makerspace.
• Children aged 14 – 18 must have parental/guardian consent and be accompanied by a parent/guardian.
• Vulnerable adults may attend independently but may require tailored support or supervision, assessed case by case.

Recruitment and Training

• Induction includes safeguarding responsibilities.
• Regular safeguarding training will be provided.

Responding to Concerns

Report concerns immediately to the DSL.
If immediate risk of harm: call 999.

All concerns will be:

• Taken seriously.
• Recorded in writing.
• Acted upon promptly.

Online Safety

• Online spaces linked to the AMS must be respectful and safe.
• No personal data or images of children/vulnerable adults may be shared without written consent.

Review

This policy will be reviewed annually, or sooner if legislation or circumstances change.

Section 2: Safeguarding Code of Conduct (Member-Friendly)

Our Commitments:
– We treat everyone with respect.
– We put safety and wellbeing first.
– We listen and act on concerns.
– We do not tolerate bullying, harassment, or abuse.

For Members & Visitors:
– Be kind and respectful to others.
– Use tools and equipment safely and responsibly.
– Never be alone in a closed space with a child or vulnerable adult.
– Report concerns immediately.

For Young People (14+):
– Ages 14 -18 : must have consent and be accompanied by a parent/guardian. 

For Vulnerable Adults:
– Welcome to attend independently.
– Support available on request.

If You’re Worried:
Speak to the DSL: Teresa Jackson
If immediate risk, call 999.

Section 3: Safeguarding Quick Guide
(For Staff & Volunteers)

What to Do if You’re Worried:
1. Stay calm – listen, don’t promise secrecy.
2. Record – write down facts (time, date, what was said/seen, who was present).
3. Report – tell the DSL immediately.
4. If immediate risk – call 999.

Your Responsibilities:
– Treat everyone with respect.
– Do not be alone in a closed space with a child/vulnerable adult.
– Report, don’t investigate.

Key Contacts:
– DSL: Teresa Jackson info@makerspaceashfield.org.uk
– Emergency: 999
– Local Safeguarding Authority: