Message From Our
Safeguarding Lead
The Importance of Safeguarding
When I speak about safeguarding I am speaking about safety, trust and dignity. Safeguarding is not a formality. It is the foundation that allows people to take part in theatre, in education and in community life without fear. It is what makes participation possible. Without safeguarding there can be no true inclusion.
Safeguarding is vital for children, for disabled children, and for adults at risk. These groups may face greater dangers, be less likely to be heard, and rely on others to take their concerns seriously. For me safeguarding means not only protecting people from harm, but creating spaces where they know they will be respected and supported.
The reality
The statistics show why safeguarding must remain central.
• More than 1 in 5 children in the UK have experienced abuse or neglect (NSPCC)
• Disabled children are around 3 times more likely to experience abuse or neglect than non disabled children (UK Government studies)
• Almost 1 in 2 adults with learning disabilities experience some form of abuse during their lives (NHS Digital and Mencap)
These figures remind us that safeguarding is not optional. It is a responsibility.
When safeguarding works
When safeguarding is effective, practical measures prevent harm and create safer environments.
• DBS checks prevented 6,266 unsuitable individuals from working with children or vulnerable adults in 2022–23 (DBS Annual Report)
• Young people involved in structured arts activities such as theatre are up to 20% less likely to engage in risky behaviours (Arts Council England, The Value of Arts and Culture to People and Society)
• Organisations that embed safeguarding in all areas of their work build trust, stronger relationships and a culture of care that benefits everyone (Charity Commission guidance)
Safeguarding is not only about policies. It is about prevention, protection and building a culture where every person knows they are safe and valued.
Safeguarding at Actcessible
At Actcessible safeguarding is not only a priority, it is a responsibility that shapes everything we do. Our work takes us into schools, hospitals, care homes and community spaces. We work with children, with disabled children and with vulnerable adults. By the very nature of what we do, safeguarding has to be taken seriously.
• We complete risk assessments for every performance and workshop to identify and reduce potential risks
• All staff, freelancers and volunteers are required to hold current DBS checks before working with us
• Our professionals receive safeguarding training so they know how to recognise concerns, respond appropriately and follow clear reporting pathways
• We maintain robust safeguarding policies and procedures that are reviewed regularly and lived out in practice, not just written on paper
Safeguarding at Actcessible is not an afterthought. It is the promise that everyone who engages with our work can do so safely.
Looking forward
The importance of safeguarding cannot be overstated. It is the ground on which inclusion and creativity can stand. It protects the children and adults we meet as well as the adults who work with us. It sustains the integrity of all our work.
At Actcessible we will continue to hold safeguarding as central. Every child, every disabled person, every adult who engages with us has the right to safety, respect and dignity.
Safeguarding is not a task to be ticked off. It is a lasting commitment. And it is why I am proud to serve as Designated Safeguarding Lead for Actcessible, because by protecting people we make space for joy, creativity and inclusion to flourish.
Jo
Actcessible's Designated Safeguarding Lead