SAFEGUARDING POLICY
Dominion City London is dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of children in alignment with the UK government’s safeguarding policy. In collaboration with relevant agencies investigating child abuse, our commitment is to safeguard children and young people engaged in Dominion City’s ministry. All individuals involved with children within Dominion City are required to formally endorse and implement the safeguarding policy.

LEADERSHIP SCREENING PROCESS FOR CHILDREN’S DEPARTMENT
As part of Dominion City’s duty of care, a meticulous selection process is in place to ensure suitability of leaders in children’s and young people’s activities. This process includes:
1. Completion of a “Self-Declaration” form by volunteers.
2. An interview with a leader from DC London.
3. A check with the Disclosure & Barring Service for any child-related convictions.
All volunteers working with children in Dominion City receive a copy of the Policy, signifying their acknowledgment and understanding of its guidelines.

LEADER-TO-CHILD RATIO
Maintaining an appropriate leader-to-child ratio is essential for effective supervision. Dominion City adheres to a ratio of 1 leader to 10 children, with at least two leaders present in each activity. Ratios may be adjusted based on the age and nature of the activities.

PARENTAL CONSENT
Regular activities within church or school buildings require parental consent, while separate consent is needed for activities involving trips to other venues.

RECORD-KEEPING
Leaders must maintain attendance records and store them according to Dominion City’s Data Protection Policy. Parental consent is essential for processing a child’s data, as detailed in the Data Protection Policy.

E-SAFETY
To mitigate the risk of abuse through technology, Dominion City recommends following the guidance provided by GOV.UK on “Keeping Children Safe Online.” Support for parents and carers to keep children safe online – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

SIGNS OF ABUSE
Recognizing signs of abuse is challenging. Dominion City emphasizes that decisions regarding abuse allegations should be left to statutory authorities. Primary signs include physical, emotional, sexual abuse, child sexual exploitation, and neglect, detailed in the Policy.

RESPONSE TO SIGNS OF ABUSE
In responding to signs of abuse, Dominion City prioritizes safeguarding children while respecting due process. Leaders are trained to handle disclosures appropriately, report to the DC Safeguarding Lead, and maintain confidentiality. If abuse is discovered or disclosed by a child or young person the leader has been trained to do the following:
– To not act rashly until all information has been collected.
– Listen carefully to the child or young person, but not to contradict them or “take sides”.
– Reassure the child or young person that they have done the right thing by talking to them.
– Write up what has been told as soon as possible. An example report form can be found in the Policy.
– Not to act alone, but to pass on the information immediately to the Safeguarding Lead.
– Keep all information about the alleged abuse strictly confidential, and within authorised parties involved.

DOMINION CITY’S RESPONSIBILITIES
The Safeguarding Lead oversees responsibilities within Dominion City, consulting with activity leaders where abuse allegations arise.

ALLEGATION AGAINST AN INDIVIDUAL LEADER
When allegations involve a leader, the Safeguarding Lead ensures factual determination without compromising external investigations. Dominion City’s approach is rooted in honesty, love, and practical care for all parties involved.

COMMITMENT TO GOD’S VIEWPOINT
Dominion City aligns its safeguarding efforts with God’s instructions in the Bible, reflecting Jesus’ love and respect for children. The church is committed to providing a safe environment for children to grow in their faith.

Dominion City London
Children’s Department