1. Introduction & Scope

NPCG is committed to preventing abuse of children/youth in a nurturing, safe environment, adopting a zero-tolerance approach. This policy binds all trustees, staff, and volunteers.

2. Definitions

• Child/Youth: Under 18 years of age.

• Abuse: Physical, sexual, emotional, or neglectful treatment, including misuse of a child's belongings.

3. Personnel Screenings & DBS Vetting Matrix

• Regular Volunteers (Enhanced DBS Required): Anyone leading activities more than 3 times in 30 days must have an Enhanced DBS check.

• Occasional Helpers (No DBS Required): Ad-hoc volunteers must follow the Code of Conduct and never work alone with children.

4. Designated Safeguarding Roles

• Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): Jo Harris (Manages concerns and reporting).

• Deputy DSL: Eleri Kyffin (Covers absences).

5. Structural Guidelines for Open-Air Programmes

• Open-Air Boundaries: Activities must take place in high-visibility areas; no solo, secluded walks with children.

• The Two-Adult Rule: Maintain adult-to-child ratios; avoid one-on-one interaction.

• Tool & Hazard Safety: Minors require direct, one-to-one supervision for handling sharp tools or hazardous materials.

• Public Hours: Children under 16 need parent supervision; under-sixes in care require verified release.

• New Activities: Require trustee consent.

6. Media & Digital Protection

• Consent: Written parental consent is required before taking, storing, or sharing photos of children.

• Online Privacy: No identifying data (names, school) on social media.

7. General Conduct & Prohibited Behaviour

• Respectful conduct is required.

• Prohibited: Alcohol/drugs, physical punishment, inappropriate language, and private social media contact.

8. Reporting Concerns & External Escalation Pathway

• Immediate Danger: Call 999.

• Reporting: Notify the DSL within 24 hours.

• External Referrals: Contact Brent MASH/Family Front Door (020 8937 4300, Family.Frontdoor@brent.gov.uk).

• Allegations Against Staff: Contact Brent LADO (020 8937 1949, Brent.LADO@brent.gov.uk).

 

 

​VOLUNTEER CODE OF CONDUCT: Keeping Children Safe

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By volunteering at NPCG, you agree to:

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• Stay in Sight: Work in visible, shared areas.

• Two-Adult Rule: Never be alone with a child.

• Tool Safety: Supervise minor tool use; keep sharp tools stored.

• Public Hours: Parents supervise children under 16.

• Photos/Videos: Do not use personal devices for child photos.

• Social Media: No private contact with youth gardeners.

• Reporting: Report concerns to the DSL within 24 hours.

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If you have any questions regarding this policy, please consult the trustees of NPCG. This should be done prior to signing and agreeing to the NPCG Child/Youth Abuse Prevention Policy.

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I have read and understand NPCG Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy and agree to abide by its terms and conditions throughout the course of my volunteering with Northwick Park Community Garden. I understand that my failure to follow the terms of this policy could result in action up to and including termination of any volunteering arrangements with Northwick Park Community Garden in the future.

 

THIS POLICY SUPERCEDES THE PREVIOUS POLICY 2018-2026

Reviewed by the Trustees on 24/07/2026

© 2026 NPCG

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