Safeguarding Policy

Last Updated Jan 2026

1. Policy Statement

Hey Little Cupcake is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and adults at risk who engage with our bakery, workshops, and learning activities. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility and is embedded across our operations, culture, and decision-making.

We recognise our duty to provide a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all participants, whether attending baking workshops, private group sessions, or events delivered within our premises.

This policy applies to all staff, freelancers, volunteers, contractors, and partners working on our behalf.

2. Scope and Level of Risk

While we do not provide care services, we operate in environments where children, young people, and adults at risk may be present, including group workshops and public retail spaces. Safeguarding risks may arise through proximity, interaction, or environment, and we take proactive steps to manage these.

3. Statutory and Legal Framework

This policy is informed by, and complies with, relevant legislation and guidance, including:

·       Children Act 1989 and 2004
·       Children and Social Work Act 2017
·       Care Act 2014
·       Mental Capacity Act 2005
·       Working Together to Safeguard Children
·       Local Safeguarding Partnership arrangements

We recognise the statutory safeguarding partners as:

·       Local Authority
·       Integrated Care Board (ICB)
·       Police

We will cooperate fully with safeguarding enquiries where required.

4. Leadership and Accountability

A Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) is appointed and responsible for:

·       Safeguarding oversight and decision-making
·       Acting as the main point of contact for concerns
·       Liaising with local safeguarding partners
·       Ensuring policies are reviewed annually

A Deputy Safeguarding Lead will be appointed to provide cover.

Safeguarding is reviewed regularly by DSL and forms part of our governance arrangements.

Safer Recruitment, Training and Supervision

We follow safer recruitment practices, including:

·       Role-appropriate DBS checks where required
·       References for staff involved in workshops
·       Safeguarding awareness during induction

All staff receive basic safeguarding training, proportionate to their role, and regular refreshers. Supervision provides opportunities to raise concerns and reflect on safeguarding practice.

7. Complaints, Allegations and Whistleblowing

Clear processes are in place for:

·       Reporting safeguarding concerns
·       Managing allegations against staff
·       Whistleblowing without fear of retaliation

Concerns can be raised with the DSL or senior management and will be handled confidentially and appropriately.

8. Information Sharing and Confidentiality

Safeguarding information is:

·       Recorded accurately
·       Stored securely
·       Shared only on a need-to-know basis

Information will be shared with statutory agencies where there is a safeguarding concern, in line with legal requirements.

Listening to Service Users

We are committed to:

·       Listening to children, young people and adults
·       Encouraging feedback and concerns
·       Creating a welcoming environment where people feel safe to speak up

Feedback mechanisms are in place, and concerns are acted upon.

10. Providing Safer Services and Activities

We manage safeguarding risks by:

·       Conducting risk assessments for workshops and activities
·       Maintaining appropriate staff-to-participant ratios
·       Ensuring safe use of equipment and kitchen spaces
·       Providing clear behaviour expectations

Health and safety is integral to safeguarding practice.

11. Responding to Safeguarding Concerns

Any safeguarding concern must be:

1.     Reported immediately to the DSL
2.    Recorded clearly and factually
3.     Referred to appropriate agencies if required

In an emergency, staff will contact emergency services immediately.

12. Review and Continuous Improvement

This policy will be:

·       Reviewed annually
·       Updated following legislative changes or incidents
·       Supported by ongoing training and learning

Safeguarding is an ongoing responsibility and central to how we operate.

Approved by: Sarah Wilson-Gibbons/Director
Date: 15.01.26
Next Review: 15.01.27