The purpose of this policy is to protect children and young people who are represented by Aurum Talent Agency. This includes all child actors, models, and performers under the age of 18. This policy applies to all staff, agents, and any freelancers working on behalf of the agency.
2. Our Guiding Principles
The welfare of the child is paramount.
All children, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation, have an equal right to protection from all types of harm or abuse.
Working in partnership with children, young people, their parents/carers, and other agencies is essential in promoting young people's welfare.
3. Legal Framework
This policy has been drawn up on the basis of legislation, policy, and guidance that seeks to protect children in England, specifically:
Children Act 1989 and 2004
Children (Performances and Activities) (England) Regulations 2014
Working Together to Safeguard Children 2026
Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR
4. Roles and Responsibilities
Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): Ryan Young. The DSL is responsible for ensuring that safeguarding concerns are handled appropriately, recorded, and referred to the relevant Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) or social services when necessary.
5. Safer Recruitment and Training
DBS Checks: All staff members in contact with children or managing child data undergo an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. These are renewed Annually.
Training: The DSL and all agents attend regular safeguarding training to recognize signs of abuse, including physical, emotional, sexual abuse, and neglect, as well as online harms.
6. Performance Licensing and On-Set Safety
Licensing: We ensure every child performer has a valid performance license issued by their Local Authority for every job. We do not allow a child to work without a license.
Chaperones: We mandate that all children are supervised by either a parent or a Local Authority Licensed Chaperone at all times. We verify the chaperone's license before production begins.
Environment: We vet production companies to ensure they have their own safeguarding measures and risk assessments in place.
7. Procedures for Reporting Concerns
If a member of staff or a parent has a concern about a child's welfare:
Record: Write down exactly what was seen or said (using the child's words) as soon as possible.
Report: Inform the Agency DSL immediately.
Refer: If the child is at risk of significant harm, the DSL will contact the relevant Local Authority Children's Social Care team or the Police (999) if in immediate danger.
Confidentiality: Information will only be shared on a 'need-to-know' basis in accordance with the Data Protection Act.
8. Online Safety and Digital Content
We ensure that self-tapes and digital headshots are handled securely.
Parents are advised to supervise all digital interactions between the agency and the child.
We do not share a child's personal contact details (address, personal phone number) with third parties without explicit parental consent for licensing purposes.