Safeguarding Policy 

Oxford Family Support Network (OXFSN) 
In partnership with Cafelias and funded by Global’s Make Some Noise 
Support Group for Families of Children Aged 0–18 months with Disabilities 
Location: Baptist House, Broadway, Didcot 
Date of Policy: 19/09/2025 
Review Date: 19/09/2026 

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1. Policy Statement 

OXFSN is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and families attending our early years support group. We aim to create a welcoming, inclusive, and safe space where children with disabilities and their families feel supported, respected, and valued. 

This policy applies to all staff, facilitators, and volunteers involved in delivering or supporting the group. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. 

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2. Purpose of the Group 

The support group offers free sessions for families of children aged 0–18 months with learning disabilities or developmental needs. The group includes: 

• Structured, play-based activities 

• Tea and coffee for adults 

• A welcoming environment for social connection 

Parents and carers remain with their children throughout the sessions. 

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3. Our Commitments 

• All facilitators and volunteers are DBS checked. 

• We endeavour to have all staff complete basic safeguarding and first aid training. 

• A risk assessment has been carried out for the venue and activities. 

• The charity holds valid public liability insurance. 

• Children must be supervised by their parent or carer at all times — we do not offer childcare. 

• Toys and materials are selected and checked regularly, but parents are responsible for supervising their child’s use of all resources. 

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4. Supervision and Responsibility 

• Parents/carers must remain present for the entire session. 

• Children are not to be left unattended at any time. 

• While we support the session environment, OXFSN cannot accept responsibility for illness, injury, or accidents during the group. 

• Parents should assess whether the environment and group are suitable for their child’s needs. We encourage families to attend a trial session and explore the space before committing. 

 

5. Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSL) 

Any safeguarding concerns should be reported as soon as possible to one of the designated contacts: 

Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO)   

Name: Gail Hanrahan, OXFSN Programme Manager  

Phone: 07891 734987  

Email: Gail.hanrahan@oxfsn.org.uk  

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Designated Trustee for Safeguarding  

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Name: Jessica Patton  

Phone: 07910 065829  

Email: Jessica.Patton@oxfsn.org.uk  

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If a child is in immediate danger, please call 999. 

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6. Venue Use and Safety 

• Sessions are held at Baptist House, Broadway, Didcot a office building which is shared with other companies. We are located on the ground floor. 

• We ask families to stay within the allocated group areas and avoid gathering outside other offices. 

• Participants are free to leave and return during sessions, for example, to use accessible toilet facilities or take a break. 

• We understand that children may be noisy or need to move around — this is welcomed and expected. 

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7. Health and Safety 

• At least one team member with first aid training will be present at each session. 

• First aid kits are available on site. 

• A risk assessment is regularly reviewed to ensure the environment remains safe. 

• Parents should check toys for suitability and monitor play — particularly with children who may put items in their mouths or are at risk around small parts. 

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8. Recruitment and Training 

All new staff and volunteers: 

• Undergo an enhanced DBS check 

• Provide references (where appropriate) 

• Receive an induction that includes safeguarding and health and safety guidance 

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9. Responding to Concerns 

If any adult or child discloses a concern, or if a staff member or volunteer has a safeguarding concern, they must: 

1. Inform the DSL or deputy DSL as soon as possible 

2. Record the concern accurately and factually 

3. Keep information confidential, only sharing with those who need to know 

Concerns will be handled sensitively, in line with statutory guidance and charity policy. 

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10. Data Protection and Confidentiality 

• Personal information collected during registration or feedback is stored securely for up to two years. 

• We may use anonymised data for internal monitoring, reporting to funders, and service evaluation. 

• We comply with relevant data protection laws and only share information with external professionals where necessary for safeguarding purposes. 

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11. Policy Review 

This policy will be reviewed annually, or earlier if needed due to changes in safeguarding legislation or operational practice.