Code of Behaviour for Interacting with Children, Young People & Vulnerable Adults

STEM South West

(STEM SW) We are committed to safeguarding children, young people, and vulnerable adults who participate in or visit any of our projects or events. This Code of Behaviour sets out clear guidelines for all volunteers, members, and representatives of STEM SW in relation to appropriate conduct when engaging with minors and vulnerable individuals. This code is aligned with best safeguarding practices in Ireland and complements our duty of care to ensure a safe, respectful, and supportive environment for all.

Purpose

  • The aim of this Code of Behaviour is to:
  • Define acceptable boundaries and appropriate conduct.
  • Promote respectful and safe interactions.
  • Reinforce every child’s right to be heard, valued, and treated with fairness and dignity.

While recognising that the primary responsibility for children lies with parents, guardians, or supervising adults (e.g., teachers), STEM SW staff and volunteers must uphold and actively contribute to the protection and welfare of every young participant.

Any breaches of this Code will be treated seriously and may result in removal from STEM SW activities and potential further action. The full Code of Behaviour will be displayed on the STEM SW website.

Core Guidelines

When interacting with children or young people, please adhere to the following:

  • Always prioritise the safety, well-being, and dignity of the child or young person.
  • Maintain clear professional boundaries at all times. Any verbal or physical interaction must be essential and appropriate to the activity.
  • Use personally owned equipment where possible to ensure control over content and interaction.
  • Never photograph or film a child without prior written consent from a parent or guardian.
  • Always act as a positive role model, behave appropriately, and use respectful language.
  • Never be under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any illegal substances while working with children. Suspected breaches will result in immediate removal and reporting to the Board.
  • Avoid shouting, harsh tones, or any form of aggressive verbal interaction.
  • Physical contact should only occur:
  • With the child’s consent,
  • In response to their needs,
  • When appropriate for their age and development,
  • Or in the case of an emergency, such as preventing injury or harm.
  • Physical punishment of any kind will not be tolerated, including by parents or supervising adults present at STEM SW events.
  • Never single out a child for unfair criticism, favouritism, or ridicule.
  • Treat all young people with respect, sensitivity, and fairness; they are children first, participants second.

Recommended Practices

For your safety and that of the children, we strongly recommend the following:

  • Never travel alone with a child. Ensure two adults are present, ideally one female.
  • If a child is found lost or unattended:
  • Calmly identify yourself,
  • Escort the child to the designated Lost Children Area or local Gardaí if available.
  • If not, take the child to the organiser’s office or customer service area,
  • Attempt to contact a parent or supervising adult if the child can recall a number.
  • Do not engage in intimate care tasks (e.g., toileting); this is the responsibility of the parent, caregiver, or teacher.
  • Avoid being alone with a child in private; ensure you are always visible or within view of others.

Designated Safeguarding Contacts

If you have any concerns regarding a child’s welfare or witness inappropriate behaviour:

Please contact the Designated Liaison Person (DLP) or Deputy DLP:

Michael Loftus – Designated Liaison Person
Mobile: 087 236 9394

Paul P. Brien – Deputy DLP
Mobile: 086 796 1282

All concerns will be treated in strict confidence.

Agreement & Declaration

By participating in STEM SW programmes, you confirm that you have read and understood this Code of Behaviour and agree to abide by it at all times when interacting with children, young people, or vulnerable adults.

Confirmation

I confirm that I have read the STEM SW Code of Behaviour and agree to observe these guidelines during all STEM SW activities and events.