Safeguarding
Keeping children and families safe is at the heart of everything we do.
Our Commitment
At Splash Sure Start, the safety and wellbeing of every child and family is our highest priority. We are committed to creating a safe, welcoming environment where children can learn, play and thrive.
All our staff and volunteers are trained in child protection and follow the regional safeguarding procedures set out by the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland (SBNI) and the Southern Health & Social Care Trust.
What is Safeguarding?
Safeguarding means protecting children from abuse and neglect, preventing harm to their health or development, and ensuring they grow up in safe and caring environments.
This includes:
- Protecting children from physical, emotional and sexual abuse
- Preventing neglect
- Ensuring children are cared for safely
- Taking action when we have concerns about a child's welfare
Our Safeguarding Team
Designated Safeguarding Officers
Our safeguarding officers are trained to handle any concerns and will take appropriate action to protect children in line with regional procedures.
Safe Recruitment
All Splash Sure Start staff and volunteers who work with children undergo enhanced AccessNI checks before they begin work. We follow safe recruitment practices in line with the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups (Northern Ireland) Order 2007.
How to Raise a Concern
If you are worried about a child's safety or wellbeing, please tell us. You can:
- Speak to any member of our team
- Contact our Designated Safeguarding Officer directly
- Call us on 028 3834 1919
- Email info@splashsurestart.org
We take all concerns seriously
All concerns are handled sensitively and confidentially. You don't need to be certain that abuse is happening – if something doesn't feel right, please speak to us.
Reporting Concerns Directly
If a child is in immediate danger
Call the police
999
Southern Health & Social Care Trust
Gateway Team (Child Protection)
Phone: 0800 783 7745
Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm
Out of Hours Emergency:
Phone: 028 9504 9999