Safe and supported

Safeguarding policy

Simpson Singing School is committed to protecting children, young people and adults at risk and creating a safe environment for music-making.

Last updated: 4 August 2026

Purpose and scope

This policy applies to individual tuition, choirs, rehearsals, performances, online communication and other activities organised by Simpson Singing School. It applies to Morag Simpson and to anyone engaged to assist with an activity.

The welfare of the child or adult at risk is the primary consideration. Everyone has the right to be treated with dignity and respect and to be protected from abuse, neglect, exploitation, bullying and discrimination.

Safeguarding lead

Morag Simpson is responsible for safeguarding at Simpson Singing School. Morag is GTC registered and PVG checked.

Raise a concern by emailing Simpsonmorag@gmail.com or calling 07818 464546.

Safe working practices

  • Maintain clear, professional and age-appropriate boundaries.
  • Treat every pupil fairly and listen to their views and concerns.
  • Agree appropriate arrival, collection and emergency arrangements with parents or guardians.
  • Use suitable teaching and rehearsal spaces and take reasonable steps to identify and manage risks.
  • Use appropriate language, teaching methods and physical contact. Any necessary physical guidance will be explained and consent sought.
  • Keep communication with children transparent and, where appropriate, include a parent or guardian.
  • Obtain appropriate permission before taking or publishing photographs, video or audio recordings.
  • Record and report accidents, significant incidents and safeguarding concerns appropriately.

Responding to a concern or disclosure

If someone shares a safeguarding concern:

  • Listen calmly and take what they say seriously.
  • Do not investigate, ask leading questions or promise confidentiality.
  • Explain that information may need to be shared with people who can help.
  • Make a factual written record as soon as possible, using the person’s own words where possible.
  • Report the concern promptly to the appropriate safeguarding or statutory service.

Information will be shared only with those who need it to protect the person or meet a legal duty.

Urgent help

If someone is in immediate danger, call 999. For a non-emergency police concern, call Police Scotland on 101. Safeguarding concerns may also be reported directly to the relevant local authority social work or child protection service.

  • NSPCC Helpline for adults concerned about a child: 0808 800 5000.
  • Childline for children and young people: 0800 1111.

If a concern relates to Morag or cannot appropriately be raised with her, contact the police or relevant local authority safeguarding service directly.

Confidentiality and records

Safeguarding records are kept securely, separately from general teaching records, and retained only as long as required by law or safeguarding guidance. The Privacy Notice explains how personal information is handled.

Review

This policy will be reviewed at least annually and sooner if guidance, activities or safeguarding arrangements change.