Safeguarding Policy

Safeguarding Policy

In considering safeguarding practice, Blue Stamp Travel draws from the expertise of several sources, including:

The policy recognises that the welfare and interests of children are paramount in all circumstances. It aims to ensure that, regardless of age, gender, religion or beliefs, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, or socio-economic background, all children:

  • have a positive and enjoyable experience on our school trips in a safe and child-centred environment
  • are protected from abuse whilst participating in our trips

Blue Stamp Travel acknowledges that some children, including disabled children and young people or those from ethnic minority communities, can be particularly vulnerable to abuse. We accept the responsibility to take reasonable and appropriate steps to ensure their welfare. As part of our safeguarding policy, Blue Stamp Travel will:

  • Promote and prioritise the safety and wellbeing of children and young people
  • Ensure that our Diversity and Equal Opportunity policy is applied consistently and fairly
  • Provide appropriate training for staff to recognise and respond to safeguarding concerns
  • Ensure appropriate action is taken in cases of abuse and support is provided to those raising concerns
  • Maintain and securely store confidential safeguarding records
  • Prevent the employment or deployment of unsuitable individuals
  • Ensure robust safeguarding arrangements and procedures are in operation
  • Encourage a culture where whistle-blowing is acceptable and encouraged

The policy and procedures are mandatory for everyone involved with Blue Stamp Travel. Non-compliance will be addressed promptly and may result in dismissal or exclusion from the organisation.

 

Actions

As part of our commitment to delivering our Safeguarding Policy, we take the following steps:

  • The directors of Blue Stamp Travel have current Safeguarding training and hold Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance (See training certificate).
  • Group Leaders travelling with Mixed School or Tailor-Made Group trips hold current DBS or international equivalent clearance.
  • Hosts for home-stay accommodation provide international equivalents of DBS clearance.
  • Dietary and medical information is requested in advance of travel and shared with relevant parties as necessary.
  • Data is secured in accordance with our GDPR policy.

In placements where students work with children, safeguarding responsibility lies with the placement employer. We collaborate with employers in these cases.

 

Monitoring

The policy is reviewed annually or in the following circumstances:

  • Changes in legislation or government guidance
  • As required by Local Safeguarding Children Boards or National Governing Bodies
  • Following significant changes or events

 

Raising a Concern or Complaint

Concerns should initially be raised with one of the following:

  • Blue Stamp Group Leader (for Mixed School Group Work Experience trips)
  • Student’s School Teacher (when travelling with a closed school group)
  • Blue Stamp Travel head office (for individual students travelling without a teacher or Group Leader)
  • Blue Stamp Travel 24/7 emergency contact
  • Language School reception staff

For concerns or complaints, please contact us at safeguarding@bluestamptravel.com. If you believe a child is in immediate danger, contact emergency services or your local authority and ask to speak to the Designated Officer (DO) for Child Protection.

 

Review

This policy is reviewed annually and is next due for review in October 2025.