SAFEGUARDING POLICY

Our Commitment

The Children's Psychology Hub is committed to the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people. We recognise that safeguarding is everyone's responsibility. This policy applies to all website content, digital resources, therapy services, groups, and any community spaces operated by The Children's Psychology Hub.

The Designated Safeguarding Lead

The designated safeguarding lead for The Children's Psychology Hub is Zara O'Brien. Zara holds a current enhanced DBS certificate, maintains up-to-date safeguarding training, and works in accordance with BACP ethical guidelines.

Contact: hello@childrenspsychology.co.uk

Our Resources and Content

All resources published by The Children's Psychology Hub are designed and clinically reviewed by a qualified psychotherapist. They are intended for use by adults — parents, practitioners, and educators — to support children, or for use with children under adult supervision. They are not a substitute for professional clinical assessment or therapeutic intervention.

Safeguarding in Therapy

When providing therapy to children and young people, Zara O'Brien will:

— Obtain written parental or guardian consent prior to commencing work with any child under 16, unless Gillick competence has been assessed and the young person is determined capable of consenting independently.

— Explain the limits of confidentiality to both the child and their parent or guardian in an age-appropriate way before therapy begins.

— Act in the best interests of the child at all times.

— Follow the procedures outlined in this policy if a safeguarding concern arises.

Recognising and Responding to Concerns

If during the course of our work — whether through therapy, resources, or any community space — a concern arises that a child or young person may be at risk of harm, abuse, or neglect, we will:

— Take the concern seriously and act promptly.

— Not investigate or attempt to gather evidence ourselves.

— Make a referral to East Sussex Children's Services (01323 464222) or, in an emergency, contact the police (999).

— Inform the child's parent or guardian unless doing so would place the child at greater risk.

— Make a record of the concern, the action taken, and the outcome.

Online Safety

Any online groups, community spaces, or digital interactions involving children operated by The Children's Psychology Hub will be moderated by a DBS-checked adult. Children will never be permitted to interact directly with unknown adults or peers without appropriate safeguarding structures in place.

Reporting a Concern

If you have a safeguarding concern related to our services, please contact Zara O'Brien immediately at hello@childrenspsychology.co.uk. We will respond within 24 hours. If a child is in immediate danger, call 999.

Useful contacts: East Sussex Children's Services: 01323 464222 NSPCC Helpline: 0808 800 5000 Childline: 0800 1111 Emergency Services: 999

Review

This policy is reviewed annually. Please check back for the most current version.