Horbury Pageant Players Dramatic Society recognizes its duty of care under the Children and Young Persons Act 1963, the Child (Performances) Regulations 1968, the Protection of Children Act 1999 and the Criminal Justice and Court Services Act 2000.

The society recognizes that abuse can take many forms, whether it be physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse or neglect. The society is committed to practice which protects children from harm. All members of the society accept and recognize their responsibilities to develop awareness of the issues which cause children harm.

The society believes that:

• The welfare of the child is paramount.
• All children, whatever their age, culture, disability, gender, language, racial origin, religious beliefs and/or sexual identity have the right to protection from abuse.
• All suspicions and allegations of abuse should be taken seriously and responded to swiftly and appropriately.
• All members and employees of the society should be clear on how to respond appropriately

The society has a dedicated Child Protection Officer, who is in charge of ensuring that the child protection policy and procedures are adhered to.

This policy will be regularly monitored by the Executive Committee of the Society and will be subject to annual review.

Date of last review 21^st September 2022