Safeguarding Policy

At Brighter Sound we're committed to making sure our activities run in a way that actively prevents harm, harassment, bullying, abuse and neglect. Safeguarding is also about being ready to respond if there is a problem.

Our approach

The ultimate aim of our approach to safeguarding is to ensure our activities are safe for all. By keeping our activities safe we aim to make sure that everyone, including staff, workers, volunteers and participants, have the best experience possible.

We guarantee that:

• Our activities are planned with safeguarding at the core
• Anyone who works for Brighter Sound, or participates in any of our activities, has an awareness of our commitment to safeguarding, and is familiar with what to do should a safeguarding issue arise
• Anyone who works for Brighter Sound has appropriate training in safeguarding and can play an active role in creating safer spaces where creativity can flourish

We're committed to providing spaces where people can be themselves in an environment that encourages and embraces individuality and equality. Please read our Safer Spaces Policy for more information.

What do I do if I have a concern?

If you're worried or concerned about something that is happening, or has happened in a session, you can speak to the person who is in charge of the group, or any of the designated safeguarding leads at Brighter Sound.

What will you do with my concerns?

• We will listen
• We will record your concerns confidentially
• We will assess the details and identify the most appropriate way of handling your concerns

The next steps could include signposting to external support, or contacting another organisation who we think can support you if we have a concern for your welfare.

Who do I contact?

Our Designated Safeguarding Lead and Officer are responsible for handling any safeguarding concerns or disclosures, as well as keeping information up-to-date, organising and undertaking necessary training.

Our Designated Safeguarding Lead is:

Kate Lowes
[email protected]
07796 460695

Our Designated Safeguarding Officer is:

Lucy Wallace
[email protected]
07701 007359

If there is an urgent need and you are unable to contact Kate or Lucy, please contact the Manchester Contact Centre (open 24 hours a day, seven days a week):

Manchester Contact Centre
[email protected]
0161 234 5001

If a child is in immediate danger, call 999 and ask for the police.

If a young person wants to speak to someone further, they can call Childline on 0800 1111. The NSPCC can also provide advice or support on 0808 800 5000.