CHILD PROTECTION POLICY
The Big Tiny Productions Ltd
Protecting Children in the Context of live performance
A practical policy document for everyone involved with our shows
Updated September 2024
During rehearsals and performance of the production, you may come into contact with children backstage and all areas front of house including the auditorium.
We all hope that these interactions will be fun for you and for the children, but even when we have the best of intentions, sometimes actions and words can be misconstrued.
For the safety and enjoyment of everyone involved, it is imperative that all members of the company abide by the child protection policy at all times. Failure to do so could result in the termination of the contract and in some cases, may constitute a criminal offence.
The designated person for child protection is Ben Richards
1. Do not engage children in any lewd, violent, inappropriate or otherwise adult
communication of any type, nor with other adults in the presence of children. This includes but is not limited to telling jokes, innuendo, asking or answering questions or referring to sexual practices or private parts of the body. Recognise that humour/conversation that is appropriate between adults may not be appropriate in the presence of children.
2. If a child asks you a question or tries to tell you a joke that would cause you to violate
point 1 of the policy, simply close the conversation down and remove yourself from the situation. A reply like “I don’t think I want to talk about that” is often sufficient. If such a situation arises, inform the chaperone or the designated person as soon as you can.
3. Avoid any unnecessary physical contact with children. Where physical contact is
necessary during rehearsal or performance, for example during a dance routine, make sure that the child is comfortable with the level of contact. If you suspect they may not be, stop. There will be another solution.
4. Don’t be alone with a child. If you find yourself alone with a child, find another adult, or get them to accompany you to an open area. Under no circumstances should you find yourself alone with a child in a room with a closed door.
5. Under no circumstances should you pursue contact with any children that you have come into contact with during the production after the show has finished.
6. If a child from the production attempts to add you on social media, under no circumstances should you accept. You should inform the child’s chaperone or the designated person of the request as soon as you can.
7. If a child tries to pursue contact with you outside of the context of the show, either online, in person or through any other means, you should tell them that you aren’t allowed to, and as soon as possible report the conversation to the child’s chaperone or the designated person as soon as you can.
8. All adults are responsible for the safety of the children around them. If you see a child engaging in any activity that is harmful or risky, intervene and stop it.
9. If you have any questions about this policy, please ask the designated person. Be clear in your own mind about the boundaries. There should be no grey areas.
10. If you suspect any person of engaging in any behaviour that puts a child at risk, you have a legal duty to report it as soon as possible.