1. Introduction

The National Social Media Awards (NSMA) is dedicated to promoting the recognition and celebration of young influencers on social media while ensuring the safety and well-being of all young participants. This Child Safeguarding Policy outlines our commitment to protecting children from harm and ensuring their rights and welfare are prioritized in all aspects of our operations.

2. Policy Statement

NSMA recognises the vulnerability of children and acknowledges our responsibility to provide a safe environment for all young influencers. We are committed to preventing any form of abuse, exploitation, or neglect and ensuring that children can participate in our awards programs with confidence and security.

3. Scope

This policy applies to all employees, volunteers, contractors, partners, and any third parties associated with the National Social Media Awards, particularly in relation to the participation of individuals under the age of 18.

4. Definition of Terms

•⁠ ⁠*Child:* Any individual under the age of 18.
•⁠ ⁠*Safeguarding:* Measures taken to promote the welfare of children and protect them from harm.
•⁠ ⁠*Abuse:* Any act that results in harm, including physical, emotional, sexual abuse, or neglect.

5. Responsibilities

•⁠ ⁠*Designated Safeguarding Officer:* NSMA will appoint a designated safeguarding officer (DSO) responsible for implementing this policy, overseeing child safeguarding practices, and serving as a point of contact for concerns regarding child welfare.

•⁠ ⁠*Training and Awareness:* All staff and associated individuals will receive training on child safeguarding practices, including recognizing signs of abuse and understanding the importance of child welfare.

6. Code of Conduct

All employees and representatives of NSMA must adhere to a code of conduct that promotes respectful and positive interactions with children. This includes:

•⁠ ⁠Maintaining professional boundaries and relationships with young participants.
•⁠ ⁠Avoiding any behaviour that could be perceived as abusive or exploitative.
•⁠ ⁠Ensuring that communication with young influencers is appropriate and respectful.

7. Reporting Concerns

Any individual involved with NSMA who has concerns about the safety or well-being of a child must report these concerns immediately to the designated safeguarding officer. Reports can be made confidentially, and NSMA will take all allegations seriously and investigate thoroughly.

8. Recruitment Practices

NSMA will implement robust recruitment practices to ensure that individuals who work with children are suitable for such roles. This includes:

•⁠ ⁠Conducting background checks and reference checks for all employees and volunteers who will have direct contact with children.
•⁠ ⁠Ensuring that all personnel understand and commit to child safeguarding policies during the recruitment process.

9. Safe Participation

NSMA will ensure that all activities related to the awards are designed to be safe for children. This includes:

•⁠ ⁠Assessing the potential risks associated with events and activities.
•⁠ ⁠Providing necessary supervision and support for young participants during all award-related activities.
•⁠ ⁠Ensuring that parents or guardians are informed about events and consent to their child’s participation.

10. Monitoring and Evaluation

NSMA will regularly review and evaluate the effectiveness of this policy and its implementation. Feedback from participants, families, and staff will be sought to enhance our safeguarding practices continually.

11. Conclusion

The National Social Media Awards is committed to ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all young influencers. Through this Child Safeguarding Policy, we strive to protect children, promote their rights, and empower them to thrive in the digital landscape.

Effective Date: Tuesday 5th November 2024