Bermotech Safeguarding Policy Statement

Introduction

Bermotech is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and young people attending our holiday tech camps and courses. We recognise our responsibility to ensure a safe and positive environment for all participants, staff, and volunteers. This policy outlines our approach to safeguarding children and protecting them from harm.

Responsibilities

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL):

  • The DSL for Bermotech is Narges Berry Noubar.
  • Contact details: Phone:  +44 20 3719 9794 | Email Address: narges@bermotech.com
  • The DSL is responsible for coordinating child protection and safeguarding arrangements, ensuring compliance with legal requirements, and acting as the main point of contact for all safeguarding concerns.

All staff and volunteers have a responsibility to:

  • Protect children from harm.
  • Report any safeguarding concerns to the DSL.
  • Promote a culture of openness, trust, and respect.

Response Procedures

If a child discloses abuse or you have concerns about a child’s welfare:

  1. Listen carefully and calmly. Do not make assumptions or investigate.
  2. Reassure the child that they did the right thing by speaking up.
  3. Record the disclosure using the child’s own words.
  4. Report the concern immediately to the DSL.
  5. Do not promise confidentiality; explain that you may need to share information to keep them safe.

Reporting Abuse

If there is a concern that a child is suffering or likely to suffer significant harm:

  • Contact the DSL immediately.
  • The DSL will contact the Local Authority Children’s Services or the Police if necessary.
  • Maintain detailed records of all concerns and actions taken.

Staff Whistleblowing

Bermotech is committed to fostering an open and transparent culture. Staff and volunteers are encouraged to report concerns about the behaviour of other adults (including staff, volunteers, and visitors) that may pose a risk to children.

If you have concerns about the behaviour of an adult:

  • Report the concern to the DSL.
  • If the concern involves the DSL, report to the Director of Bermotech Limited.
  • All concerns will be treated confidentially and addressed appropriately.

Advice and Guidance

For additional advice and guidance regarding safeguarding children, staff and volunteers can contact:

  • NSPCC Helpline: 0808 800 5000
  • London Borough of Hounslow Child Protection Services: Phone | +44 20 8583 6600
  • Police (if immediate danger): 999

Record Keeping

  • Accurate and detailed records of concerns, disclosures, and referrals will be kept securely.
  • Records will include the date, time, individuals involved, nature of the concern, and any actions taken.
  • All records are kept confidential and shared only on a need-to-know basis.

Staff Hiring and Training

  • All staff and volunteers will receive annual safeguarding training.
  • Training will cover recognising signs of abuse, response procedures, and understanding the safeguarding policy.
  • Additional training will be provided as needed to ensure high standards of safeguarding.
  • All staff undergo an Enhanced DBS check before commencing their roles.
  • Staff are made aware of First Aid procedures to ensure a safe environment.
  • At least one person with a valid First Aid certificate will always be on-site.

Allegations Against Staff

We recognise that a pupil may, at times, make an allegation against a member of staff. In such cases, the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) or Deputy DSL will follow these steps:

  • Temporary Staff Replacement: An appropriately trained staff member will temporarily assume the role of the accused staff member until further notice.
  • Contact LADO/MASH: We will immediately contact the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) or Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) and follow their guidance. (See contact details below).
  • Notify Ofsted: We will report the matter to Ofsted at 0300 123 1231 and provide a written follow-up to enquiries@ofsted.gov.uk.
  • Inform Parents: Parents will be informed of any incidents involving their child, unless advised otherwise by the governing body or external safeguarding authorities. 

Code of Conduct

All children and young people attending our tech camps are expected to:

  • Treat others with kindness and respect.
  • Follow instructions from staff and volunteers.
  • Report any concerns about their own or others’ safety.
  • Avoid engaging in inappropriate or harmful behaviour.

Staff and volunteers are expected to:

  • Maintain appropriate professional boundaries.
  • Avoid favouring any child over another.
  • Use positive language and feedback.
  • Be alert to signs of abuse or neglect.

Equality

Bermotech is committed to promoting equality and preventing discrimination based on race, gender, religion, disability, or any other characteristic.

We strive to ensure that all children and young people have equal access to opportunities and support within our tech camps.

Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed in response to any significant changes in safeguarding legislation and/or government guidance.

Contact Details

Our Safeguarding/Welfare Officer’s Name: Narges Berry Noubar
Tel: 020 3719 9794
Email: narges@bermotech.com

First_Aid_Certificate

Common_Core_Skills_Certificate

Note: The terms ‘child’ and ‘young person’ describe any person under the age of 18. References to ‘parents’ should be read as parents and carers inclusively.

This document was last updated on March 12, 2025