CHILD PROTECTION POLICY
MARYADI LIMITED
Document Control
- Authored by: Adil Yermekov
- Authorized by: Mary Calistri
- Review cycle: Triennial
- Current review: March 2025
- Next scheduled review: March 2028
Headquarters & Contact Information:
MARYADI LIMITED
C/O Taxassist Accountants 635 Bath Road
Burnham, Slough, Berkshire, United Kingdom, SL1 6AE
Telephone: +44 2037 690 458
24/7 Emergency: +44 7850943060
This policy is for all people who work with/alongside Maryadi Guardians and it is available via our website. The policy also informs parents, agents and partner schools how we will safeguard their children whilst they are in our care. Guidance we refer to and advise our staff and host families to read:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/safeguarding-children-and-safer-recruitment-in-education
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/keeping-children-safe-in-education–2
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/working-together-to-safeguard-children–2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Our Commitment
- Legislative Framework
- Key Contacts & Responsibilities
- Understanding Abuse
- Responding to Concerns
- Host Family Guidelines
- Staff Protocols
- Recruitment & Training
- Whistleblowing Provisions
- Internet Safety
- Missing Persons Protocol
1. OUR COMMITMENT
MARYADI LIMITED is fully dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and young people in our care. We create environments where children feel safe, respected, and valued at all times.
We recognize that:
- Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility
- All staff members, host families, and partners must actively participate in child protection
- The welfare of the child is paramount in all our decision-making
We aim to ensure that students experience a consistently caring and secure environment.
All suspicions and allegations of abuse will be taken seriously and responded to swiftly and appropriately according to this policy.
2. LEGISLATIVE FRAMEWORK
This policy operates within the context of:
- Children Act 1989 & 2004
- Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018)
- Keeping Children Safe in Education (2022)
Related MARYADI LIMITED policies include:
- Missing Student Policy
- Anti-Bullying Policy (including Cyberbullying)
- E-Safety Policy
- Whistleblowing Policy
Key Definitions
Child Protection: Procedures and actions undertaken regarding children who are at risk of being seriously harmed or have been significantly harmed. Child Protection is a component of the broader safeguarding process.
Safeguarding: Actions taken to promote the welfare of children and protect them from harm, including:
- Protection from abuse and maltreatment
- Prevention of harm to health or development
- Ensuring safe and effective care
- Taking action to enable optimal outcomes for all children
3. KEY CONTACTS & RESPONSIBILITIES
Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): Mary Calistri
- Email: marylia@maryadi.com
- Mobile: +44 7850943060
Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL): Mary Calistri
- Email: marylia@maryadi.com
- Mobile: +44 7850943060
Emergency Contact:
24-hour emergency line: +44 7850943060
Safeguarding Email: Marylia@maryadi.com
Key Responsibilities of the DSL/DDSL
- Serve as first point of contact for concerns
- Provide expertise, advice and support
- Evaluate allegations and refer cases as appropriate
- Interface with external agencies
- Maintain training for staff and host families
- Securely maintain confidential records
- Liaise with school/college DSLs
- Communicate with parents/guardians
- Attend child protection meetings as required
- Make referrals to police, DBS, or Channel program as necessary
The DSL has overall responsibility for safeguarding at MaryAdi. In the event when the DSL cannot be contacted the emergency 24-hour call phone can be used. The staff member on duty will then contact the DSL as soon as possible to inform them of the situation. Parents may contact the DSL at any stage if they have cause for concern about the welfare of any child in the care of Marydi Guardians. The DSL at Maryadi is trained in-line with current guidance and will undergo training every two years.
4. UNDERSTANDING ABUSE
Abuse is defined as any form of maltreatment of a child. Children may suffer abuse within a family, in an institutional or community setting, by those known to them, or more rarely, by others (including via the internet).
4.1 Physical Abuse
Definition: Physical harm caused by hitting, shaking, throwing, poisoning, burning, drowning, suffocating, or other means. Physical harm may also be caused when a parent/carer fabricates symptoms or deliberately induced illness.
Indicators include:
- Unexplained bruising or inconsistent accounts of injuries
- Finger marks, hand prints, bite marks
- Burns or scalds with clear boundaries
- Fractures at different stages of healing
- Symptoms of drug/alcohol intoxication
- Reluctance to change clothes or participate in PE
- Fear of going home or medical attention
- Aggressive behavior or withdrawal
4.2 Emotional Abuse
Definition: Persistent emotional maltreatment causing severe adverse effects on emotional development, including conveying worthlessness, inappropriate expectations, silencing, overprotection, witnessing ill-treatment of others, or serious bullying.
Indicators include:
- Developmental delays (physical, emotional, mental)
- Self-deprecation and overreaction to mistakes
- Sudden speech disorders
- Neurotic behaviors (rocking, head banging)
- Self-harm or substance abuse
- Eating disorders
- Inappropriate emotional responses
- Running away or stealing
- Fear of parents being contacted
4.3 Sexual Abuse
Definition: Forcing or enticing a child to take part in sexual activities, whether or not the child is aware of what is happening. Activities may involve physical contact (penetrative or non-penetrative) or non-contact activities such as exposure to sexual images, watching sexual activities, or grooming.
Indicators include:
- Age-inappropriate sexual knowledge/behavior
- Physical discomfort in genital areas
- Reluctance to go home
- Tiredness or inability to concentrate
- Eating disorders
- Self-harm or substance abuse
- Depression or isolation
- Reluctance to undress for PE
- Sexual aggression or withdrawn behavior
4.4 Neglect
Definition: Persistent failure to meet a child’s basic physical and/or psychological needs likely to result in serious impairment of health or development, including failure to provide adequate food, clothing, shelter, supervision, medical care, or emotional support.
Indicators include:
- Constant hunger or tiredness
- Poor personal hygiene
- Inadequate clothing
- Frequent lateness or absence from school
- Untreated medical conditions
- Poor concentration
- Stealing or scavenging
- Failure to meet developmental milestones
- Lack of attachment
4.5 Other Forms of Abuse
Domestic Abuse
Pattern of controlling, coercive, threatening behavior between those aged 16+ who are/have been intimate partners or family members. Children are always affected when living in homes with domestic abuse.
Honor-Based Violence
Practices used to control behavior within families to protect perceived cultural/religious beliefs and honor, often with family approval or collusion.
Peer-on-Peer Abuse
Physical, sexual, emotional, or financial abuse between children, including bullying, relationship abuse, sexual exploitation, and harmful sexual behavior.
Sexting
Sending indecent images, which may constitute a criminal offense for those under 16.
Upskirting
Taking a picture under a person’s clothing without permission for sexual gratification or to cause humiliation.
Radicalisation and PREVENT
The process by which a person comes to support terrorism or extremist ideologies. Schools and guardianship organizations must have due regard to the need to prevent people from being drawn into terrorism.
Channel
Voluntary support program focusing on providing early intervention to those identified as vulnerable to being drawn into terrorism.
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)
Procedures involving partial or total removal of external female genitalia or other injury to female genital organs.
County Lines
Term used to describe gangs and organized criminal networks involved in exporting illegal drugs, often exploiting children to move and store drugs and money.
Contextual Safeguarding
Approach recognizing that young people’s experiences of harm can occur beyond their families, requiring assessment and intervention in these wider social contexts.
Criminal Exploitation
Where an individual/group takes advantage of an imbalance of power to coerce a child into criminal activity for financial advantage or through violence.
Sexual Exploitation
Form of sexual abuse where an individual/group takes advantage of an imbalance of power to coerce a child into sexual activity in exchange for something the victim needs/wants or for financial advantage.
5. RESPONDING TO CONCERNS
If you consider a child is in immediate danger, phone the police emergency number on 999.
To maintain links with the appropriate governmental authorities with jurisdiction in matters pertaining to child welfare. The following website details the contacts information for all UK Safeguarding partners: Safeguarding Children Partnership/Board Links England
https://www.safecic.co.uk/your-scb-acpc/55-free-downloadsandsafeguarding-links/61-
5.1 Disclosure Procedure
When abuse is suspected or a complaint is made, all staff members and host families should:
- Recognize signs of potential abuse
- Respond calmly and supportively
- Report concerns immediately to the DSL
- Record all details accurately
- Refer as directed by the DSL
When receiving a disclosure:
- Listen carefully without judgment
- Avoid leading questions
- Reassure but don’t promise confidentiality
- Explain you need to tell the DSL
- Document the conversation with:
- Time and date
- Location
- Key points discussed
- Who was present
- Full names (not initials)
- Provide written records to DSL as soon as possible
- Make a verbal report to the DSL
Please complete if there are any safeguarding concerns about an under 18 student. You must complete the boxes in CAPITAL LETTERS so there is no misunderstanding
Response to concern.
This section to be filled in by the DSL Do parents / group leader / agent / homestay / other need to be informed?
5.2 Managing Allegations
Allegations Against Staff or Host Families
- Balanced approach protecting students while avoiding unfounded allegations
- Suspension not automatically triggered
- Students relocated from host families during investigations
- No retribution against good-faith reporters
- Immediate reports to DBS if staff deemed unsuitable to work with children
- Resignation does not prevent investigation or referral
Allegations Against Students
- Ensuring safety and welfare of all students involved
- Appropriate notification to parents, legal guardians, and schools
- Support during police interviews
- Alternative accommodation arrangements if necessary
5.3 Confidentiality and Information Sharing
- All child protection records kept confidential
- Information shared only with those who need to know
- Cooperation with police and social services
- Schools notified of concerns except in exceptional circumstances
- Regular policy review following incidents
5.4 Child Incident Reporting Form
A standardized form is used to record:
- Details of the incident/disclosure
- Persons involved
- Action taken
- Date and time of report
- Name of reporter
This form does not replace the need to inform the DSL verbally as soon as possible.
5.5 Data Protection Considerations
- Personal information held to safeguard and promote welfare
- Subject to GDPR provisions
- Parents/guardians may have right to access information
- Confidential records shared only with those who need to know
- Information may be shared with social services or police for child protection investigations
6. HOST FAMILY GUIDELINES
6.1 Essential Safeguarding Requirements
- Valid Enhanced DBS checks for all household members and regular visitors aged 16+
- Impartial relationships with students
- Clear, unambiguous behavior
- Respect for student privacy
- Sharing concerns with MARYADI LIMITED staff
- Avoiding social media connections with students
6.2 Safe Care Plan
For stays exceeding 28 nights, plans should address:
- Bedroom access protocols
- Bathroom routines
- Secure medication storage
- Smoking and alcohol policies
- Visitor conduct
- Internet and telephone use
- Transportation arrangements
- Bedtime routines
- Privacy boundaries
- House rules (including out-of-bounds areas)
6.3 Home Safety Requirements
- Annual PAT testing of electrical appliances
- Annual gas appliance inspection by Gas Safe registered plumber
- Valid Gas Safety Certificate
- Smoke and Carbon Monoxide alarms installed
- Secure storage of medicines and chemicals
- Clear explanation of fire escape routes
- Emergency service information (999)
7. STAFF PROTOCOLS
7.1 Staff Conduct Guidelines
- Minimize physical contact
- Never supply tobacco, drugs, or alcohol (except with parental consent and in accordance with UK law)
- Avoid one-on-one situations in private spaces
- Respect student bedrooms as private space
- Exercise caution when transporting students
- Maintain appropriate professional boundaries
7.2 Staff Duties
- Prioritize child safety and welfare
- Follow safeguarding policy guidelines
- Report concerns promptly to DSL
- Maintain comprehensive records
- Complete regular safeguarding training (minimum every three years)
All staff and host families must be aware that they cannot promise a child to keep secrets which might compromise the child’s safety or wellbeing. The 24-hour Childline Service continues to be available on 0800 1111. All calls are free and confidential, and trained counsellors will help any young person with any problem.
8. RECRUITMENT & TRAINING
8.1 Safer Recruitment Practices
Throughout the recruitment process, MARYADI LIMITED will:
- Reference safeguarding in job descriptions
- Specify child safety in person specifications
- Obtain comprehensive applicant information
- Verify independent references
- Confirm applicant identity
- Check employment history where relevant
- Verify health and physical capacity
- Obtain Enhanced DBS checks for all relevant persons
8.2 Safeguarding Training
MARYADI LIMITED commits to:
- Ensuring all staff understand safeguarding as a key responsibility
- Providing mandatory safeguarding training for all staff
- Regular refresher training (minimum every three years for host families)
9. WHISTLEBLOWING PROVISIONS
MARYADI LIMITED is committed to the highest standards of openness, integrity, and accountability. We enable staff to voice concerns responsibly and effectively through our whistleblowing policy.
9.1 Legal Protection
The Public Interest Disclosure Act provides legal protection to employees against being dismissed or penalized for disclosing specific serious concerns.
9.2 Policy Scope
This policy:
- Assists individuals who believe they have discovered malpractice or impropriety
- Is not designed to question financial or business decisions
- Is not for reconsidering matters addressed under other procedures
- Provides internal channels for concerns before external disclosure
10. INTERNET SAFETY
10.1 Appropriate Computer Use
- Students should develop responsible internet use habits
- Large downloads (films, games, music) are not permitted
- Students should respect household routines and quiet hours (typically 11 PM – 8 AM)
10.2 Prohibited Activities
- Accessing adult sites (pornography, gambling)
- Browsing offensive, violent, inflammatory, or extremist content
- Downloading unlicensed material
- Any form of hacking or unauthorized access
10.3 Social Media Guidelines
Students need to understand:
- Risks of social networking
- How to stay safe online
- Protecting against identity theft, bullying, harassment, grooming
- Appropriate profile management
10.4 Liability
MARYADI LIMITED accepts no liability for loss or damage to computers owned by students or borrowed from others.
11. MISSING PERSONS PROTOCOL
11.1 Definitions
- Missing person: Anyone whose whereabouts cannot be established, where circumstances are out of character, or where the person may be at risk of harm
- Absent: A person not at a place where they are expected to be
11.2 Reporting Procedures
- Unexplained absences reported immediately to MARYADI LIMITED
- During office hours: +44 7850943060
- Out of hours (urgent): +44 7850943060
- Host families must report non-arrival within 1 hours of expected time
11.3 Student Expectations
- All students receive a Student Handbook at their first meeting
- Guardian Coordinators review handbook content with students
- Clear guidelines on conduct and behavior with host families
Safeguarding information is available in all our handbooks. All handbooks detail our emergency 24 hour phone number. Student handbooks are all discussed with new and existing students.
Please also read:
https://rbwmsafeguardingpartnership.org.uk/p/safeguarding-children/safeguarding-children