Child Safeguarding Policy

Child Safeguarding Policy
Effective Date: September 2024
Next Review Date: September 2026

1. Introduction & Guiding Principles

STEM South West (STEM SW) is a not-for-profit, industry-led cluster advancing Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) in the South-West of Ireland. We are committed to safeguarding children and young people who interact with our programmes, events, and representatives.
This policy outlines our commitment to child protection and welfare, the responsibilities of our members and volunteers, and the procedures to be followed to ensure safety, transparency, and legal compliance.

Our principles:

  • The welfare of the child is paramount.
  • All children have the right to protection from abuse, to be treated with respect, and to have their voices heard.
  • Equality, inclusion, and non-discrimination are central.
  • STEM SW aligns with Children First: National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children (2017).
  • STEM SW members and volunteers must report any child protection concerns to the Designated Liaison Person (DLP).

2. Definitions of Abuse

STEM SW adopts the four categories of abuse defined in national guidance:

  • Neglect: Failure to provide adequate care, supervision, or stimulation.
  • Emotional Abuse: Persistent ill-treatment or rejection that affects a child’s development.
  • Physical Abuse: Intentional injury or risk of injury.
  • Sexual Abuse: Use of a child for sexual gratification or exploitation.

Each category includes specific behaviours and indicators. A child may suffer from more than one type of abuse simultaneously.

3. Responding to and Reporting Concerns

STEM SW has clear procedures to ensure prompt, confidential, and effective action:

  • All concerns must be reported to the DLP or Deputy DLP.
  • Reports are assessed and, if appropriate, referred to Tusla using the standard reporting form.
  • In emergencies, An Garda Síochána may be contacted.
  • A full record of concerns, actions, and correspondence will be securely retained.

Concerns may arise from:

  • A disclosure by a child
  • A concern about a colleague’s behaviour
  • Witnessing or suspecting abuse
  • An anonymous report or public complaint

4. Allegations Against STEM SW Members or Third Parties

STEM SW follows a four-pronged approach:

  1. Report to Tusla.
  2. Implement internal disciplinary processes.
  3. Investigate the allegation according to natural justice.
  4. Collaborate with external authorities if necessary.

Protective measures may include temporary suspension. The principle of innocent until proven otherwise applies, while prioritising the child’s safety.

5. Safe Working Practices

STEM SW ensures:

  • Rigorous selection of volunteers.
  • Mandatory child safeguarding training.
  • Secure and confidential record keeping.
  • Safe, accessible, and well-maintained facilities.

Use of photography or video requires written parental consent. Unsupervised access, personal devices and one-to-one photography are not permitted.

6. Designated Safeguarding Contacts

DLP: Michael Loftus – 087 236 9394
Deputy DLP: Paul O Brien – 086 796 1282
Email: safeguarding@stemsouthwest.ie

7. Risk Assessment & Procedures<

STEM SW has conducted a full risk assessment covering:

  • Event attendance by minors
  • Communication and use of children’s data
  • Missing child protocols
  • Photography/media use

Mitigation strategies include:

  • Consent forms
  • Volunteer training
  • DLP-led reporting procedures
  • Clear signage and safeguarding statements at events

8. Relevant Legislation

  • Children First Act 2015
  • Child Care Act 1991
  • National Vetting Bureau Acts 2012–2016
  • Protections for Persons Reporting Child Abuse Act 1998
  • Criminal Justice Acts 2006, 2012, 2017
  • GDPR and Data Protection Acts

9. Access to Policy & Review

  • This policy is available on the STEM SW website.
  • Copies are provided to all members and volunteers.
  • It will be reviewed biannually, or more often if required by law or operational changes.

For more information or to request a printed copy of this policy, contact:
Email: safeguarding@stemsouthwest.ie
Website: www.stemsouthwest.ie