click here to download the SSO Child Protection Policy as a PDF file

Policy Statement for the Protection of Children and Vulnerable Adults

The Shrewsbury Symphony Orchestra is an amateur symphony orchestra. Its members are mainly adults. However, from time to time, children (defined as young people under the age of 18 years) or vulnerable adults may become involved in the activities of the Orchestra, usually as players. The Orchestra welcomes and actively encourages the involvement of such, to foster their musical development and as a way of encouraging future membership. However we need to ensure their safety whilst they are in our care, and are committed to developing practices that promote their well-being.

We further believe that:

• the welfare of children and vulnerable adults is paramount;
• it is always unacceptable for children or vulnerable adults, whatever their age, culture, disability, gender, language, racial origin, religious beliefs or sexual identity to experience abuse of any kind and they have the right to protection from all types of harm;
• all suspicions and allegations of abuse should be taken seriously and responded to swiftly and appropriately;
• it is the duty of all members and officers of the orchestra to prevent abuse and dangerous practice and they should be clear on how to respond appropriately and whom to inform of any concern;
• working in partnership with children/vulnerable adults and with their parents, carers and their agencies is essential in promoting their welfare.

The purpose of the policy:

• To provide protection for the children and vulnerable adults who are regular or invited members of the Shrewsbury Symphony Orchestra, including the children of adult members.
• To provide members with guidance on procedures they should adopt in the event that they suspect a child or vulnerable adult may be experiencing, or be at risk of, harm.
• To protect the position of the Orchestra in event of any allegations of misconduct towards such children.

N.B. This policy applies to all regular members of the Shrewsbury Symphony Orchestra. Guest players and soloists may join us from time to time for a limited number of rehearsals or even a single rehearsal before a concert. Shrewsbury Symphony Orchestra is not liable for their actions; however as good practice, the Safeguarding Officers will be vigilant to their behaviour if around children/vulnerable adults as appropriate.

We will seek to safeguard children and vulnerable adults by:

• valuing, listening to and respecting them;
• adopting child protection guidelines through procedures and a code of conduct for members;
• appointing appropriate members of the orchestra to be Child Protection officers
• sharing information about child protection and good practice with children, parents and members;
• sharing information about concerns with the relevant agencies and involving parents and children/ vulnerable adults as appropriate;

We are also committed to reviewing our policy annually, including the appointment of officers.

Before a child takes part in any activity, written permission must be provided to the Orchestra by his/her parents/guardians, who will be shown a copy of the Child Protection policy.

• Policy agreed by the Committee, January 2016
• Checked with Making Music Insurance Services: Elaine Blakeston, Team Manager, and Ben Saffell, Membership and Services Manager. Direct: 01482 388611 | This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.