Last updated: 23 Jan 2026

The Darling Theatre Company (“we”, “us”, “our”) is committed to protecting the well-being of all participants, including children, young people, and vulnerable adults. We aim to provide a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment across all classes, rehearsals, workshops, and productions.

By participating in our programs, you agree to follow the procedures and principles set out in this policy.

1. Our Commitment

We are committed to:

• Ensuring all participants are treated with dignity, respect, and kindness.

• Maintaining safe physical and emotional environments.

• Supporting participants to speak up if they feel unsafe or concerned.

• Ensuring all staff and teaching artists working with minors have current Working With Children Checks.

• Following clear procedures for reporting, recording, and responding to concerns.
  

2. Staff Responsibilities

All staff who work with young people or vulnerable adults:

• Hold valid Working With Children Checks or relevant certifications.

• Receive safeguarding and child protection training.

• Follow a clear Code of Conduct.

• Maintain professional boundaries at all times.

• Report any concerns immediately to the Safeguarding Lead.

The Safeguarding Lead oversees all matters relating to the safety of children and vulnerable adults. Parents and guardians may contact this person directly at any time.

3. Safe Program Environment

We ensure every session, rehearsal, or production is:

• Supervised and observable, with staff-to-participant ratios appropriate to age and activity.

• Age-appropriate, inclusive, and safe in content and delivery.

• Free from activities involving romantic intimacy, extreme violence, or emotionally unsafe material.

• Structured to promote confidence, creativity, and emotional well-being.
  

Participants have the right to:

• Feel safe and respected at all times.

• Decline activities that they are uncomfortable with.

• Speak privately to a trusted adult if they feel unsafe.
  

4. Sign-In, Sign-Out, and Supervision

• Parents/guardians must sign children in and out, unless otherwise arranged in writing.

• Children are only released to authorised adults.

• Late pick-ups or changes must be communicated in advance.

• Children remain supervised at all times, including during breaks.

• No staff member transports a child alone unless formally approved and documented.
  

5. Communication and Media

• Staff communicate professionally, respectfully, and appropriately with participants.

• No direct one-to-one digital communication with participants is allowed (e.g., private messages).

• Children are photographed or filmed only with written parental consent, for specified purposes such as documentation, marketing, or archival use.

• Parents may withdraw consent at any time.
  

6. Behaviour and Wellbeing

Participants are expected to:

• Treat peers, staff, and visitors with respect and kindness.

• Contribute to a positive, inclusive environment.

• Avoid bullying, exclusion, or disruptive behaviour.

Staff will:

• Address concerns in a supportive, respectful, and private manner.

• Contact parents or guardians when necessary.

• Prioritise the safety and well-being of all participants.
  

7. Reporting Concerns

If a participant discloses harm, concerning behaviour, or distress:

• Staff will listen without judgment and reassure the participant.

• Record the concern accurately and report immediately to the Safeguarding Lead.

• Follow legal reporting obligations if required.

• Parents are informed when appropriate, except when doing so may place the participant at greater risk.
  

8. Parent and Guardian Partnership

Parents can support safeguarding by:

• Talking openly with their child about classes and experiences.

• Sharing relevant health, emotional, or support needs.

• Keeping drop-off and pick-up arrangements up to date.

• Informing staff of any circumstances at home that may affect participation.

9. Health, Medical, and Special Needs

• Inform us of any allergies, medical conditions, or special needs.

• We make reasonable adjustments to support participation.

• Staff respond calmly and professionally in emergencies, contacting parents promptly if a participant is unwell or injured.
  

10. Inclusion and Equity

• We welcome participants of all backgrounds, abilities, and identities.

• Promote equal access and remove barriers to participation.

• Challenge discriminatory behaviour or language.

• Foster a culture where every participant feels seen, valued, and celebrated.
  

11. Review

This policy is reviewed annually to ensure it aligns with legal requirements, best practices, and the evolving needs of our programs. Parents will be notified of any significant updates.