Heston In The Community 

Policy

1. Policy Statement

Heston in the Community is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people aged 8–17. We recognise that safer recruitment practices are a vital part of creating a safe and trusted environment.

This policy outlines the procedures followed to ensure that all staff and volunteers are recruited safely and are suitable to work with children and young people.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, trustees, and anyone working on behalf of Heston in the Community who has contact with children and young people.

3. Principles of Safer Recruitment

Heston in the Community follows safer recruitment principles to:

• Deter unsuitable individuals from applying
• Identify and reject candidates who may pose a risk
• Ensure fair, transparent, and consistent recruitment practices

Safeguarding is considered at every stage of recruitment.

4. Recruitment and Selection Process

4.1 Role Descriptions and Advertising

• All roles working with children and young people have a clear job description and person specification.
• Job advertisements include a statement confirming the organisation’s commitment to safeguarding.

4.2 Application Process

• All applicants are required to complete an application form.
• CVs alone are not accepted.
• Application forms include questions relating to suitability to work with children and young people.

4.3 Shortlisting and Interviews

• Shortlisting is based on the person specification.
• Interviews include questions that assess safeguarding awareness, values, and attitudes.
• At least one panel member has responsibility for safeguarding.

5. Pre-Employment Checks
Employment or volunteering is subject to the following checks:

• Verification of identity and right to work in the UK
• Verification of qualifications where relevant
• A minimum of two references, one of which must be the most recent employer or organisation
• Enhanced DBS check with barred list check where required

No individual is permitted to start unsupervised work with children and young people until all checks are satisfactorily completed.

6. Induction and Probation

• All staff and volunteers complete a structured induction.
• Safeguarding policies and procedures are explained and acknowledged.
• A probationary period applies to new staff, during which suitability is monitored.

7. Ongoing Suitability and Supervision

• Staff and volunteers receive regular supervision and appraisal.
• Safeguarding responsibilities are reinforced through training and supervision.
• Concerns about suitability are addressed promptly in line with procedures.

8. Record Keeping and Confidentiality

• Recruitment records are maintained securely.
• Information is handled in line with data protection legislation.

9. Policy Review

This policy is reviewed regularly and updated in line with legislation, best practice, and funding requirements.