This policy explains:  

• who the policy applies to and the safeguarding responsibilities of all personnel; 

• how safeguarding is managed within productions, including risk assessments and protocols; 

• the roles of the Designated Person and Deputy; 

• requirements around consent, privacy, data protection and aftercare; 

• recruitment, vetting, training and supervision arrangements; 

• expected standards of behaviour and reporting procedures for safeguarding concerns. 

This policy applies to all working relationships in the screen industries, including employees, workers, freelancers, contractors, trainees, volunteers and anyone else engaged in work-related activities.

This policy is for all screen business with:  

• employees, freelancers and workers; 

• senior leaders, managers and supervisors; 

• trainees, interns and volunteers. 

Everyone covered by this policy has a responsibility to uphold its principles and contribute to a safe working environment.  

It is designed to be used with:  

This safeguarding policy is intended to be used alongside safeguarding processes, which should be carefully documented to support this policy. Effective implementation relies on your business thoughtfully applying strong governance, robust health and safety practices, sound management, and thorough supervision.  

It also works alongside: 

• NSPCC Resources and Guidance on safeguarding and safer recruitment; 

• UK Government advice on Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks; 

• recruitment and hiring processes; and  

• other industry guidance, such as Screenskills 

This policy is not a substitute for statutory safeguarding guidance, criminal law, or the responsibilities of local authorities, the police or other statutory agencies. It does not remove the duty on any individual to take immediate action if a child or vulnerable adult is at risk of serious harm, nor does it form part of any employee’s contract of employment. 

Children and vulnerable adults may be at a risk of harm within the screen industry due to power imbalances, public exposure, long working hours, sensitive subject matter, or online and social media risks. Everyone has the right to feel safe, respected and protected from harm. Failures in safeguarding can cause serious and lasting damage to individuals and organisations.