Safeguarding Policy

Policy Statement

Updated October 2026 

Centrepoint aims to adopt the highest possible standards of safeguarding and take all reasonable steps to protect and keep children safe who are in our care.

At Centrepoint we put the Children at the heart of everything we do, we want all our Children in our care to feel like they are safe, secure and have someone they can speak to.

We are passionate about giving the children our patience, giving them our time and understanding. We want the children to feel comfortable around our staff.

We have a passionate team who are constantly reflecting our practice so we can always improve.

We listen actively to the voice of the child, building good relationships with the children and their families.

All our staff need to share our values and in doing this, we can provide the children with a safe space where they can always talk to us.

Centrepoint regularly review all our Safeguarding and child protection policies and processes to ensure best practice and that we comply with all relevant legislation, guidance and advice from Child Protection Agencies.

Forms of abuse to look out for are: physical, emotional, neglect, domestic abuse, bullying and cyber bullying, child sexual exploitation and trafficking, criminal exploitation and gangs, female genital mutilation, grooming, non-recent abuse, on line abuse (please see Apx 1 types of abuse)

We have a duty to act in accordance with the Children’s (Jersey) Law 2002 (in particular Part 5: Protection of children).

Centrepoint are advocates of children’s rights and prioritise the rights of children in all our policies and actions. We have considered the UNCRC while writing this policy in particular incorporated Articles, 2,3,12,19,23,31,34,39 (please see Apx 2 Rights of the child for further details)

Responsibility

At Centrepoint everyone has a responsibility to keep children safe and to foster a culture where safeguarding is a priority

•        The CEO, DSL and Management Team – Have accountability and responsibility for the adoption and implementation of the safeguarding policy, processes and procedures, ensuring the whole team have the opportunity to review and understand the policy.

•        All staff (regardless of their role or position) - are responsible for reading, understanding and following the Safeguarding policy and code of practice (Apx 3), raising awareness of any concerns they have following the process and procedures laid out in this policy and maintaining appropriate confidentiality.

•        Parents and Families – are responsible for keeping the Centrepoint team informed of any information they need to ensure the care of your child/ren. Including any changes in any circumstance, routines, medication, dietary requirements, beliefs and anything else they might feel is important.  

•        Collaborating outside agencies - (e.g. social worker or family partnership worker) are expected to provide up to date information on families they support and where the information is relevant in terms of safeguarding that family or other children attending Centrepoint.

•        Visitors – Please highlight to our DSL or other team member any concerns you have whilst you are at our setting

Designated Safeguarding Person:

•        LPQ: Tania Moniz, Michelle James

•        GST: Gabby Ferreira

•        Playcare: Melody Cornick, Martyn Cotrel

•        Playcare East: Natalie Whitman-Hall

•        The Space: Robin Martins

•        At Home & more: Tyler Gosslin

Designated Safeguarding Lead:

•        LPQ: Mell Le Cornu

•        GST: Hannah Gamble

•        Playcare: Zelia dAbreu

•        Playcare East: Paul Witt

•        The Space: Roxanne Pryor

•        At Home & more: Rebecca Hansford

•        Contact Centre: Tyler Gosselin

Organisational Safeguarding lead: Graeme Fitchett

CEO: CEO Jane Moy 735151 ex 5 or jane.moy@centrepoint.je

In the absence of Designated Persons and/or in extreme emergency situations:

Other Important Contacts

  • Independent Safeguarding Standards (Concerns about Staff or Institutional Practice

    •  01534 443536

  • Safeguarding Partnership Board (Local Advice & Training):

 

Other useful information

 

Implementation

What we do

•        Centrepoint operate a safer recruitment system and only employ people who meet our strict criteria

•        All members of the team paid or volunteers will have an enhanced and barred DBS and be on the updates scheme prior to starting. No one without the DBS and or visitors to our setting will never be left alone with children.

•        As part of our registration requirements, staff need to be signed up to the DBS update system, so regular checks can be performed. Details will be entered into the central log for this purpose

•        All staff will have a thorough induction, which includes training on all policies including the safeguarding Policy, Centrepoint code of conduct, Child Protection, Whistle Blowing Policies. Agreement and adherence will be given by signing the Policy checklist on induction.

•        The team at Centrepoint will act upon any concerns and/or information received in respect of a child in our care and will work with all relevant agencies as appropriate.

•        Staffs understanding of their responsibilities will be regularly confirmed during their probation periods and following this our appraisal system.

•        All staff must attend the Child Protection Foundation 6 hour training and provide the certificate so details can be recorded (central log). Following this, annual update training is required.

•        Considering the needs of children all staff have access to training to support children’s needs while maintaining dignity and best safeguarding practice (could give examples such as MAYBO)

•        Policies and procedures will be review annually by the team and following and concerns or incidents by management. Relevant adaptations will be made and shared with the staff team

•        The team build positive relationships with the children and families and encourage them to come forward to discuss any areas they are concerned about or need support so that our team can be proactive in supporting families and avoiding the escalations of situations or concerns.

•        Our practitioners have a good understanding of the signs and symptoms of abuse and the additional barriers to identifying these in some of our children.

•        Through training and clear guidance, we empower our team and the children to act on any concerns they might have. We provide our team with clear instructions on how to deal with each plausible scenario (see below dealing with concerns).

•        Where a member of staff is dismissed (or would have been, had the person not left the setting first) because they have harmed a child or put a child at risk of harm we always ensure that a referral is made to both the Disclosure and Barring Service and the Independent Safeguarding Standards.

•        In all areas of Centre Point’s Childcare departments (Nursery, Play care, The Space, Homecare and Saturday club) excluding The Child Contact Centre. Any person known to be on the Sex Offenders Register or under investigation will not be able to enter premises and alternative drop off and pick up arrangements will need to be made. Within the Child Contact Centre individuals under criminal investigation or known to be on the sex offenders register will be permitted to enter the premises and attend contact, providing it has been court ordered and risk assessments have been conducted to ensure the safety and security of others attending the service. Centrepoint Reserves the right to refuse the Child Contact Centre service to any person they deem a risk to themselves or others during contact.

 

Dealing with Concerns/Incidents

If a Child Makes a Disclosure:

  • Remain calm and listen carefully. Offer reassurance to the child without expressing shock, judgment, or disbelief. Avoid making promises you cannot keep, do not promise to keep the disclosure a secret. Explain that you may need to share the information with someone who can help keep them safe.

  • Ask open and objective questions only if necessary to clarify what is being said (e.g., “Can you tell me more about that?” or “What happened next?”). Avoid leading or suggestive questions.

  • Confidentiality must be maintained at all times. Do not discuss the disclosure with anyone except the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) in the first instance and never outside the workplace.

  • As soon as possible after the disclosure, record a detailed, dated account of what was said using the Safeguarding Concerns Report Form (see Appendix 4 – Safeguarding Children: Record and Chronology). State the facts clear

  • Immediately report the disclosure to the DSL and hand over the written report. The DSL will review the information and decide whether to continue monitoring the concern using the Safeguarding Children: Record and Chronology, or to proceed with a referral.

  • If a referral is required, the DSL will complete and submit the referral using Appendix 5 – Children and Families Hub Online Referral Form via the Referral Portal: Children and Families Hub Online Referral Form.

  • The DSL must also consider whether consent from the child (where appropriate) is needed before contacting other agencies, taking into account the child’s age, understanding, and the nature of the concern.

If you have concerns about a child's physical or emotional wellbeing:

Report any concerns to the DSL and your line manager. All concerns must be recorded as soon as possible after the disclosure/incident in a detailed, dated account, stating the facts using the Safeguarding Record and Chronology report form (see Appendix 4 – Safeguarding Children: Record and Chronology). The report can include professional opinion or judgements. Actions following this also need to be recorded on the form. A decision will be made if the Children and Families Hub is contacted.

If a child makes an accusation against a member of staff:

Record the facts ensuring that all witnesses sign and date the entry using an Incident Report Form (Please see apx 6 Incident Report Form).

Contact the DSL immediately, who will report this to Jersey Designated Officer (all allegations must go through the JDO who will support next steps) an appropriate investigation will take place with advice from the JDO

If the allegation is against the DSL or you are concerned that the allegation has not been take seriously you then you must contact the JDO yourself.

For all allegations against adults contact the Independent Safeguarding Standards (ISS) JDO on 01534 443566

 

If a staff member or parent highlight a safeguarding issue:

Report any concerns immediately to the DSL who will discuss this with the CEO (see Child Protection Whistle Blowing Policy), who will report this to Jersey Designated Officer for their support and advice, all allegations must go through the JDO. An appropriate investigation will take place with advice from the JDO

For all allegations against adults contact the Independent Safeguarding Standards (ISS)

JDO on 01534 443566

The registering body CEYS can also be contacted to aid decision making.

CEYS Direct: 01534 449387 ceys.gov.je

 

Any person raising a concern will be asked to complete a written account of factual information relating to the concern including dates and times using the Safeguarding Concerns report form. The Safeguarding Partnership Board will be contacted by the CEO

If you feel that the Manager has not responded appropriately to the concern/incident raised, the responsibility is on you to refer to the CEO for advice; you can make an official complaint by emailing jane.moy@centrepoint.je. If you are still not satisfied with how the situation has been dealt with, you can contact the Safeguarding Partnership board.

Independent Safeguarding Standards (ISS)

JDO on 01534 443566

CEYS Direct: 01534 449387 ceys.gov.je

•        Information from a third party, i.e. someone who is not Centrepoint staff or management, regarding suspicions of child abuse cannot be ignored. If the person imparting the information has concerns, they should be encouraged to contact The Children and Families Hub, it should be explained to them that Centre Point Trust has an obligation to contact them. The concerns should be recorded. If in doubt about a concern or an incident, always seek advice.

•        Confidentiality is of the utmost importance and any incidents/concerns must only be discussed with relevant persons e.g. Manager or the Safeguarding board. All referrals will be taken seriously and considered with an open mind. Staff are reminded regularly of the Declaration of Secrecy that they sign on starting employment.

•        Centrepoint will routinely discuss all concerns/incidents with parents prior to involvement of another agency unless the circumstances do not allow this. All conversations with parents must be recorded. (Record of concern forms)

•        https://safeguarding.je/policies-strategies/

•        Appendixes

Appendix 1: Types of Abuse

Understanding the different forms of abuse is essential to identifying, responding to, and safeguarding children and young people effectively. Below is an overview of key types of abuse and common indicators.

 

1. Physical Abuse

Physical abuse is when an adult deliberately hurts a child, causing injuries such as bruises, broken bones, burns, or cuts. It is not accidental and may include:

  • Hitting

  • Shaking

  • Throwing

  • Poisoning

  • Drowning

  • Suffocating

Possible signs may include:

  • Unexplained injuries or those with inconsistent explanations

  • Bruising in unusual places

  • Flinching or fear of physical contact

  • Reluctance to go home or see certain individuals

 

2. Emotional Abuse

Emotional (or psychological) abuse involves the persistent maltreatment of a child, impacting their emotional development and mental health. This can include:

  • Intimidation or threats

  • Humiliation or ridicule

  • Ignoring, rejecting, or isolating the child

  • Frequent criticism or scapegoating

Possible signs may include:

  • Low self-esteem or lack of confidence

  • Difficulty regulating emotions

  • Struggles with relationships

  • Behaviour that is inappropriate for their age

  • 3. Sexual Abuse

Sexual abuse involves forcing or enticing a child to take part in sexual activities. This does not always involve physical contact and may also occur online.

Possible signs may include:

  • Difficulty walking or sitting

  • Pain, itching, bruising, bleeding, or unusual discharge from genital or anal areas

  • Recurrent urinary infections or sexually transmitted infections

  • Persistent sore throats

  • Knowledge or behaviour that is inappropriate for the child’s age

 

4. Neglect

Neglect is the persistent failure to meet a child's basic physical and emotional needs. This can involve:

  • Inadequate food, clothing, or shelter

  • Lack of supervision or medical care

  • Being left alone frequently or for long periods

  • Emotional unavailability from a parent or carer

Possible signs may include:

  • Constant hunger or stealing food

  • Poor hygiene or untreated medical issues

  • Frequent absences from school

  • Tiredness or lack of concentration

 

5. Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)

FGM involves the partial or total removal of external female genitalia for non-medical reasons. It is illegal and a form of child abuse.

Action:

  • If a girl is at risk, inform the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) immediately.

  • If she is in immediate danger, call 999 without delay.

Possible signs may include:

  • Sudden change in behaviour, anxiety or withdrawal

  • Missing school, particularly after travel to countries where FGM is prevalent

  • Spending longer in the toilet or avoiding it altogether

  • Discomfort when walking or sitting

  • Reluctance to participate in physical activities or medical exams

 

Appendix 2: Children’s Rights

Key Articles from the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC)

 

Article 2 – Non-Discrimination
The Convention applies to every child without discrimination, regardless of race, religion, abilities, opinions, or family background.

 

Article 3 – Best Interests of the Child
All organisations working with children must ensure that the best interests of the child are a primary consideration in all actions and decisions.

 

Article 12 – Respect for the Views of the Child
Children have the right to express their views freely in all matters affecting them. Their opinions must be listened to and taken seriously.

 

Article 19 – Protection from Violence, Abuse and Neglect
Governments must ensure that children are cared for and protected from all forms of violence, abuse, and neglect, whether by parents, carers, or others.

 

Article 23 – Children with Disabilities
Children with any kind of disability have the right to special care and support, so they can live full and independent lives with dignity.

 

Article 31 – Right to Leisure, Play and Culture
All children have the right to rest, relax, play, and participate in cultural and recreational activities appropriate to their age.

 

Article 34 – Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse
Governments must take all appropriate measures to protect children from all forms of sexual exploitation and abuse.

 

Article 39 – Recovery and Reintegration
Children who have experienced neglect, abuse, or exploitation have the right to receive support to help restore their dignity, health, and self-respect.

Appendix 3: Code of Practice for Staff

This Code of Practice applies to all Centrepoint staff, whether working in a paid or voluntary capacity. It outlines the standards of behaviour expected to maintain a safe, respectful, and child-centred environment.

 

Professional Boundaries and Conduct

  • Physical Contact:
    Physical contact should not be initiated by staff unless necessary for the child’s safety or emotional well-being. Comforting or reassuring a child is sometimes appropriate, but staff must be alert to situations where such contact may be misinterpreted or inappropriate.

  • Transporting Children:
    Staff must not transport children in their personal vehicles unless prior authorisation has been granted and all safeguarding, insurance, and policy requirements have been met. This includes holding valid business car insurance, an up-to-date driving licence, and ensuring that the vehicle is roadworthy and fitted with appropriate child restraints. Transporting children should only occur when it is necessary, risk assessed, and approved by management..

  • Language and Remarks:
    Staff must not make suggestive, inappropriate, or personal remarks to or about a child — even in jest. Such comments may be misinterpreted and could undermine a child's sense of safety and trust.

 

Equality and Awareness

  • Avoiding Assumptions:
    Abuse can be perpetrated by anyone — regardless of gender, ethnicity, social class, age, or even by other children. Staff must remain vigilant and avoid making assumptions or allowing personal biases to prevent appropriate safeguarding actions.

  • Positive Role Modelling:
    Staff are expected to value and respect each child as an individual. All behaviour must reflect this, including consistent role-modelling of respectful, inclusive, and non-discriminatory conduct.
    Bullying, racism, sexism, sectarianism, or any form of discrimination or aggressive behaviour is unacceptable and must be addressed immediately.

 

Culture of Vigilance

  • Know the Children in Our Care:
    Staff should familiarise themselves with each child and be alert to any changes in behaviour that seem out of character, as this may indicate a safeguarding concern.

  • Challenge Poor Practice:
    Inappropriate practices, even if minor or unintentional, must be challenged. Creating a culture of openness and accountability helps safeguard everyone and promotes best practice.

 

Statutory Requirements

  • Legal Responsibilities:
    All staff are required to adhere to statutory safeguarding requirements at all times. These are:

    • Provided during induction via email

    • Available for reference on the gov.je website

Appendix 4 Safeguarding Children: Record and Chronology

Documentation to be completed by Designated Safeguarding Lead/ Person (DSL/ DSP)

_____________________________________________________________________________

 

Details of the Child or Young Person for whom there are concerns

 

Full name

 

Date of Birth

 

School

 

Parent/carer

details

 

 

Relevant background information relating to the child or young person for whom you have concerns

 

 

 

 

Date

Name

Chronology of Events, relevant information and significant events

Record any actions to meet safeguarding needs

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Insert new rows where required

 

 

 

 

 

 

Details of Concern(s)

 

Concern 1

Give brief details of concerns, actions taken and outcomes. Please include advice given, agencies consulted and any parental involvement

Date

 

 Time

 

Concern

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Concern raised by [details]

 

Action

 

Outcome

 

 

 

Voice of the Child

Did the child say anything? If so, what? Please note here any disclosure made by the child

 

 

 

Copy and paste concern boxes should more be required.

 

Appendix 5: Children and Families Hub Online Referral Form

Referral Portal: Children and Families Hub Online Referral Form

Section 1: Immediate Risk

  • Is a child at immediate risk of significant harm / abuse / neglect?

    • Yes

    • No

Section 2: Referrer Details

  • Your Full Name (max 1000 characters)

  • Department or Organisation

  • Contact Number (max 1000 characters)

  • Your Role (max 1000 characters)

  • Email Address

Section 3: Consent

  • Is the parent/carer aware that you are making this request for service?

    • Yes

    • No

  • Has the parent/carer given consent for the request to be made?

    • Verbal consent given

    • Written consent given

    • No consent given

  • Has the child/young person given consent?

    • Verbal consent given

    • Written consent given

    • No consent given

    • Not appropriate

Section 4: Household Details

  • Main household address where the child(ren) primarily live

  • Is the address correct?

    • Correct

    • Incorrect

    • Not listed

  • Details of all children living in the household (max 1000 characters)

  • Is the young person living alone, in hostel accommodation, or homeless?

    • Yes

    • No

    • Not known

Section 5: Significant Others

  • Significant people not living in the main household (max 1000 characters)

Section 6: Agency Involvement

  • Agencies involved with the child(ren) or family (up to 4 x 1000 characters)

Section 7: Documentation

  • Do you have an assessment or child plan to upload?

    • Yes

    • No

Section 8: Communication Needs

  • Specify if an interpreter is required. Include details of what is required and for whom: (max 1000 characters)

Section 9: Concerns Overview – “What are you worried about?”

(max 5000 characters)

  • Describe the history leading to this referral and the duration of concerns

  • Outline previous support and intervention

  • Identify current/future risks if concerns are not addressed

  • Note any complicating factors

 

 

Section 10: Strengths & Current Support – “What is going well?”

(max 5000 characters)

  • Highlight what’s going well in the family

  • Identify existing resources/services

  • Who is currently supporting the family (friends, professionals, etc.) and how?

Section 11: Child & Family Voice

(max 5000 characters)

  • Child’s view of concerns, positives, and changes needed

  • Family’s view of concerns, positives, and changes needed

Section 12: Support Required – “What needs to change?”

(max 5000 characters)

  • What needs to change to make things safer/better for the child/family?

  • What additional support is needed?

Section 13: Additional Information

  • Is anyone in the family involved in crime and/or anti-social behaviour?

    • Yes / No / Not Known

  • Do any children/young people not attend school regularly?

    • Yes / No / Not Known

  • Is anyone in the family affected by health issues (including mental health)?

    • Yes / No / Not Known

  • Has anyone in the family been affected by domestic abuse?

    • Yes / No / Not Known

  • Does anyone in the family claim out-of-work benefits or face financial exclusion?

    • Yes / No / Not Known

  • Is any child/young person at risk of becoming NEET (Not in Employment, Education or Training)?

    • Yes / No / Not Known

 

Appendix 6: INCIDENT REPORT FORM

Date:                                                             Area:          

Name of staff dealing with the incident and involvement:

 

 

Location:                                                      Time of incident:

  • Name of children involved in the incident:

     

     

     What happened, Facts, what was said, who did what, who and where it was reported:

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Staff member(s): 

    Signature(s):

     

     

    Date:

     

    Managers name:

    Signature:

     

    Date:

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