North Barrow Community Hall Safeguarding Policy Statement
Purpose
This policy statement sets out the commitment of the North Barrow Community Hall
Management Committee to protect children, young people, and vulnerable adults who use
our facilities. Even though our hall is used infrequently, we recognize our strict legal duty of
care to ensure a safe environment for all visitors.
Our Principles
• The welfare of the child or vulnerable adult is always paramount.
• All users have a right to equal protection from all types of harm, neglect, or abuse.
Committee Responsibilities
• The Building: We will maintain a safe, clean, and secure physical environment.
• The Hirers: We require all individuals and groups hiring the hall to accept responsibility for safeguarding during their bookings
• The Contacts: We will display clear emergency contact details inside the hall.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU HAVE A CONCERN
If you suspect a child or vulnerable adult is at risk of abuse, or if an incident occurs within the hall:
1. Immediate Danger: Call the Police on 999.
2. Report a Concern (Somerset Council): Contact the local safeguarding teams immediately:
• During Office Hours (Mon–Fri): Call 0300 123 2224 (For both Children’s Services/MASH and Adult Social Care)
• Out of Hours / Weekends: Call the Emergency Duty Team on 0300 123 2327.
• Non-Emergency Police: Call 101.
3. Notify the Committee: Inform the Community Hall Booking Secretary or Chair as soon as possible after alerting the council.
This policy was formally adopted on: 03/11/2026.
This policy will be reviewed annually at the first committee meeting following the AGM
Approved by Committee: November 2026
Review date November 2027