Safeguarding Children: The Essential Checklist for Kids’ Activity Clubs

Why Safeguarding Children is a Non-Negotiable

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Running a children’s activity club is a rewarding way to impact young lives, and safeguarding children is at the heart of it. Whether you’re teaching art, coaching football, or leading a drama workshop, you get to share your passion while helping kids learn new skills and grow into confident individuals.

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But alongside all the fun and creativity, there’s one responsibility you can’t ignore: ensuring every child’s safety and well-being. If the children in your care don’t feel safe, they can’t fully explore, learn, or thrive. Plus, parents trust you to look after their kids, and it’s your responsibility to make sure your club is a safe and supportive space for every child.

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When you prioritise safeguarding children, you create a space where they can grow, explore, and be themselves without fear or worry. And as an added bonus, when you’re prepared and confident in your safeguarding practices, you’ll find it’s easier to focus on the things you love about running your kids’ club.

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If this feels like a lot to take on, don’t worry; you’re already on the right path by taking the time to improve your safeguarding practices. And this safeguarding checklist is here to give you clear, actionable steps to safeguard the children in your care.

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Your Safeguarding Checklist

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1. Understand the Signs of Abuse

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The first step in safeguarding children is recognising the different types of abuse and their warning signs. Being aware allows you to act quickly and appropriately when something feels wrong.

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Types of Abuse

• Physical abuse
• Emotional abuse
• Sexual abuse
• Neglect

What to Look Out For

• Unexplained bruises, injuries, or recurring marks
• Sudden changes in behaviour, such as withdrawal, aggression, or extreme anxiety
• Consistently poor hygiene or clothing unsuitable for the weather (e.g., long sleeves to hide bruises)
• Reluctance to go home or avoiding certain people
• Signs of malnutrition, fatigue, or untreated medical issues

If you notice something concerning, act immediately. Safeguarding children is about being vigilant, taking concerns seriously, and addressing potential risks without delay.

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What to Do If You’re Concerned

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When you suspect abuse or have concerns about a child’s safety, it’s essential to follow the correct steps:

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Report Your Observations

• Speak to your organisation’s Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) straight away.
• If you’re working within a school, inform the school’s DSL immediately.

Make a Referral

• If a child is at immediate risk, contact your local children’s social care team or the police.

Seek Advice

• If you’re unsure about your next step, contact the NSPCC for guidance and support.

Find More Information

• For details on how to report abuse, visit the government website on reporting abuse.

Remember, safeguarding children is a shared responsibility. Taking action, no matter how small it may seem, could make a life-changing difference for a child in need.

2. Set Clear Boundaries

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Maintaining professional boundaries is essential for safeguarding children and building trust. Clear boundaries protect everyone while fostering a respectful and secure environment.

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Top Tips for Professionalism

• Keep your interactions with children friendly but professional at all times.
• Avoid adding children on social media or communicating with them outside of your club’s activities.
• Always obtain parental consent before taking photos or videos of children, and ensure these are deleted once they are no longer needed.
• Lead by example in your actions and language, modelling respectful, appropriate behaviour.

Tips for 1:1 Sessions

• Get written consent from parents in advance.
• Use open, visible spaces rather than closed or isolated rooms. If privacy is needed, make certain others are nearby or aware of the session.
• Avoid physical contact unless necessary for instruction, and always ask for the child’s consent first.

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3. Minimise Risks in Your Club

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Creating a safe environment starts with preparation. Regular safety checks and clear procedures help prevent accidents and ensure quick responses when something does happen.

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Safety Prep Checklist

• Inspect your venue before each session. Is it free from hazards? Are exits clear?
• Make sure first aid kits are easy to find and fully stocked.
• Review emergency procedures with your team, so everyone knows their role if a situation arises.

Pick-Up and Drop-Off Procedures

• Use a designated area for drop-off and pick-up.
• Only release children to authorised adults listed in your records. If there are changes to pick-up arrangements, confirm them in advance.
• Clearly communicate these rules and procedures to parents and carers.

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