Disclosure and Allegation Procedure

Effective date: 25 September 2026
Review date: September 2027

1. If a child makes a disclosure

If a student tells an adult about abuse, neglect, exploitation or another safeguarding concern:

  • Stay calm and listen.
  • Take the student seriously.
  • Allow them to explain in their own words.
  • Do not ask leading or investigative questions.
  • Do not promise to keep the information secret.
  • Reassure the student that they have done the right thing by speaking up.
  • Explain that the information may need to be shared with people who can help keep them safe.
  • Report the concern to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) as soon as possible.

The adult receiving the disclosure should make a factual record of what was said, using the student’s own words where possible.

2. Do not investigate

The person receiving the disclosure must not investigate the allegation or attempt to establish whether it is true.

The DSL will decide what action is required and whether the matter should be referred to children’s social care, the police or another appropriate safeguarding agency.

3. Immediate danger

If there is an immediate risk of serious harm, contact the emergency services on 999.

The DSL should be informed as soon as practicable.

4. Allegations concerning an adult

Any concern or allegation that an adult working with Motion Film Academy has:

  • Behaved in a way that has harmed, or may have harmed, a child.
  • Possibly committed an offence against or related to a child.
  • Behaved towards children in a way that indicates they may pose a risk of harm.

must be reported immediately to the DSL.

The DSL must not conduct an informal investigation or attempt to resolve the matter personally.

Where appropriate, the matter will be referred to the relevant Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO), children’s social care or police in accordance with applicable safeguarding procedures.

5. Allegation concerning the DSL

If the concern or allegation relates to the DSL, it must not be dealt with by the DSL.

It should be reported directly to the appropriate local authority safeguarding service and/or police where appropriate.

6. Confidentiality and records

Information will be shared only with those who need it to safeguard the child or manage the concern appropriately.

All records must be factual, dated and stored securely.

7. Review

This procedure will be reviewed annually and following any significant safeguarding incident or change to relevant guidance.

Next review: September 2027