Safeguarding Summary
By the Collectives Ltd (BTC) is responsible for safeguarding across all its activities and is committed to creating a safe, positive and inclusive environment for all children, young people and adults at risk, who take part in our classes, workshops, rehearsals, performances, trips and events.
Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. We work closely with parents/carers, tutors, venues and partner organisations to ensure the wellbeing of every student.
This summary explains the key safeguarding measures in place across all BTC activities.
Our Commitment
Every child and young person has the right to feel:
- Safe
- Respected
- Supported
- Included
We ensure:
- All safeguarding concerns are taken seriously
- Staff follow strict safeguarding procedures
- All staff working directly with children are vetted through Disclosure Scotland
- Students are treated with dignity, fairness and respect at all times
Key Safety Measures
Supervision & Staff Conduct
- All staff, tutors and visiting creatives follow BTC’s safeguarding procedures and professional conduct standards.
- Staff are trained to recognise and respond to concerns.
- Students are supervised during all BTC activities.
- Staff avoid being alone with a single student wherever possible.
Physical Contact
- Physical contact is kept to the minimum necessary for safe teaching technique.
- Tutors explain any physical correction at the start of sessions.
- Students can refuse contact at any time.
Behaviour & Conduct
We operate a zero‑tolerance approach to:
- Bullying
- Harassment
- Discrimination
- Aggression from students, parents or staff
- Inappropriate language, behaviour or content
Anyone who breaches these standards may be removed from the activity.
Online Safety
- Students should only communicate with staff through official BTC channels.
- Staff do not use personal messaging apps or personal social media accounts to contact students.
- Students are supervised when using BTC devices or platforms.
- Any concerns about online behaviour or content should be reported immediately.
Photography & Filming
BTC may take photos or videos during classes, rehearsals or performances for:
- Celebrating achievements
- Educational and training purposes
- Marketing and promotional materials
We ensure:
- Consent is collected during registration
- Images are used safely and appropriately
- No photography or filming takes place in private areas (e.g. changing rooms)
- Parents/students may withdraw consent at any time
Full details are available in our Photography & Media Policy.
Recognising & Reporting Concerns
All staff are trained to look out for signs of:
- Physical, emotional or sexual abuse
- Neglect
- Bullying or cyberbullying
- Harmful cultural practices
- Exploitation or radicalisation
If a child is at immediate risk, staff will contact 999.
For non‑urgent concerns, staff report directly to our Designated Safeguarding Officer.
How We Handle Concerns
If a concern is raised:
- Staff listen without judgement
- Information is recorded factually
- Confidentiality is respected
- The DSO reviews the concern and decides next steps
- Referrals to Social Work or Police are made where necessary
Safeguarding always takes priority over confidentiality.
Safer Recruitment
All staff and tutors undergo:
- Disclosure Scotland checks
- Reference checks
- Identity verification
- Safeguarding training
Visiting creatives are accompanied by BTC staff when working with students.
Key Safeguarding Contacts
Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO)
Laura Proudfoot
laura@bythecollectives.global
BTC Managing Director
Drew Gowland
drew@bythecollectives.global
If a child is in immediate danger, call 999.
Full Safeguarding Policy
For detailed procedures, reporting processes and governance, please read the full BTC Safeguarding Policy (PDF).