Our Safeguarding Policy

Last updated: 14 June 2026

1. Our commitment

Studio 10 Dance and Fitness is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children, young people and adults at risk. We believe everyone has the right to take part in dance and fitness in a safe, positive and enjoyable environment, free from harm, abuse or discrimination. The welfare of the child is always our paramount concern.

2. Designated Safeguarding Lead

3. Who this applies to

This policy applies to everyone involved in our classes — staff, helpers, participants, parents and guardians — and covers all children and young people under 18 and any adults at risk who attend.

4. Our staff & checks

Staff working with children hold an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. We are committed to safer recruitment, appropriate training in safeguarding and first aid, and to keeping our knowledge up to date.

5. Recognising abuse

Abuse can take many forms, including:

• physical abuse;
• emotional abuse;
• sexual abuse;
• neglect; and
• bullying, including online.

All staff are expected to be alert to the signs of abuse and to take any concern seriously.

6. Reporting a concern

If you have a concern about a child or adult — or if a child tells you something that worries you — report it to the Designated Safeguarding Lead straight away. Listen calmly, do not promise confidentiality, do not investigate yourself, and write down what was said as soon as possible. The DSL will record the concern and, where appropriate, refer it to Gateshead Council children’s services, the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) or the police. Where a child is in immediate danger, call 999 without delay.

7. Code of conduct

Our staff treat everyone with respect and dignity, use appropriate language, avoid being alone and unobserved with a child wherever possible, and never use physical punishment or any form of degrading treatment. We maintain professional boundaries at all times.

8. Photography & social media

We only take or share photographs and video with consent, and never in a way that could identify a child’s location or put them at risk. Parents and guardians can withdraw consent at any time. See our Privacy Policy.

9. Drop-off, collection & supervision

Parents and guardians are responsible for their child until the class begins and from the moment it ends. Children should be dropped off and collected on time by a parent, guardian or named adult. Please ensure we hold current emergency contact details.

10. First aid, medical & accidents

Please tell us about any medical conditions, allergies or needs before classes. In the event of an accident or illness we will provide first aid where appropriate, contact a parent or guardian, and seek emergency medical help if needed. Accidents and incidents are recorded.

11. Anti-bullying

Bullying of any kind is not tolerated. Anyone who experiences or witnesses bullying should tell a member of staff, who will deal with it promptly and sensitively.

12. Confidentiality & sharing information

Safeguarding information is treated confidentially and shared only on a need-to-know basis with those who can help protect the child or adult. The welfare of the child always comes first and may require information to be shared with the relevant authorities.

13. Raising concerns about an adult or staff member

If you have a concern about the behaviour of any adult or member of staff, report it to the Designated Safeguarding Lead. Concerns about the DSL should be reported directly to Gateshead Council children’s services or the police.

14. Review

This policy is reviewed at least once a year, and sooner if guidance or our practice changes.

15. Useful contacts

• Emergency (immediate danger): 999
• Police (non-emergency): 101
• Gateshead Council children’s social care: 0191 433 2653 (out of hours 0191 477 0844)
• NSPCC Helpline: 0808 800 5000
• Childline: 0800 1111