John Brownlow Head of Consultancy Director of the Safeguarding Unit for the Third Sector

The case for the Unit 8 million of children engaged in third sector activities Lack of safeguarding awareness within the sector Inconsistent engagement between statutory sector, LSCBs and community and voluntary groups Legislation and guidance

The origins of the Unit NSPCC Child Protection in Sport Unit NSPCC Safe Communities project DCSF Staying Safe Action Plan

The purpose of the Unit Children and young people’s right to be and to feel safe Participation in activities outside the home Proportionate risks as an essential part of growing up.

Our vision All children and young people taking part in organised voluntary activities to be safe from harm. Our mission Build on the strengths of the voluntary and non-profit organisations in England, helping to keep the safety of children and young people at the heart of what they do Share reliable advice and support Equip parents to ask questions of organisations to which they entrust their children’s care.

Key outcomes Effective safeguards Safer recruitment practices Risk assessment and management of risk in activities involving children Effective anti-bullying policies Parents reassured Integrated local safeguarding arrangements.

Understanding third sector needs Consistent standards Reliable and accessible information, advice and support National, regional and local networks Flexibility to address diverse needs Ownership, engagement and reach

Understanding third sector needs Participation model - children, young people and parents Independent and informed voice representing contribution of the sector to government, to the ISA and to LSCBs Consistency of approach

What the Unit will do Advice through website and helpline Standards and training High quality information materials Work with delivery partners to ensure reach and relevance Work with, but independent of ISA, CWDC on safer recruitment and workforce development

What the Unit will do Reach to diverse audience through Safe communities toolkit and BME safeguarding resources Be a voice for the sector Inform parents and young people about how to choose activities that meet agreed standards Link with statutory agencies

Unit governance and management arrangements Funded by DCSF (£2.25 million over 3 years) Joint managed by NSPCC and Children England Advisory Group Delivery partners Stakeholder/reference groups

Unit structure Website – informative, flexible, interactive Core staff group Children England regional development managers Delivery partners and stakeholders

Questions & Answers