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    Child Safety & Safeguarding Policy

    Version 1.0 • Last updated: 02/24/2026

    Zero-Tolerance Policy

    Pontia has a zero-tolerance policy for any inappropriate behaviour, abuse, or harm towards children or vulnerable adults. Any violations will result in immediate removal from the platform and may be reported to relevant authorities.

    Mandatory Supervision Requirements

    To ensure the safety of all children, the following supervision requirements are mandatory for all sessions:

    1

    No Unsupervised Sessions

    A therapist must never be alone with a child without explicit parental consent. This applies to all session types (physical, online, and hybrid).

    2

    Parent or Authorised Adult Presence

    A parent or authorised adult (as designated by the parent) must be present on the premises during all physical and hybrid sessions. For online sessions, a parent or authorised adult must be present in the same location as the child.

    3

    Safe, Supervised Spaces

    All sessions must be conducted in safe, supervised spaces that are:

    • Visible and accessible to supervising adults
    • Free from potential hazards
    • Appropriate for the type of therapy being provided
    • Compliant with health and safety regulations

    Zero-Tolerance for Inappropriate Behaviour

    The following behaviours are strictly prohibited and will result in immediate action:

    • Any form of physical, emotional, or sexual abuse
    • Inappropriate physical contact or boundaries
    • Inappropriate communication or language
    • Conducting sessions without required supervision
    • Violating professional boundaries
    • Any behaviour that could cause harm or distress to a child or vulnerable adult

    Reporting Safety Concerns

    If you have any safeguarding concerns, you must report them immediately:

    In-App Reporting

    Use our built-in safeguarding reporting tool to report concerns directly from the platform.

    All reports are taken seriously and reviewed immediately by our safeguarding team. Reports can be made anonymously if preferred.

    Professional Standards

    All professionals on our platform are required to:

    • Maintain appropriate professional boundaries at all times
    • Follow all relevant safeguarding legislation and guidelines
    • Report any concerns immediately using the in-app reporting tool
    • Complete regular safeguarding training
    • Maintain valid Enhanced DBS checks (required for working with children)
    • Maintain valid professional registrations (HCPC, RCSLT, etc.)
    • Adhere to all supervision requirements outlined in this policy

    Parental Responsibilities

    Parents and guardians are responsible for:

    • Ensuring a parent or authorised adult is present during all sessions
    • Designating authorised adults who can supervise sessions
    • Reporting any concerns immediately
    • Ensuring the session location is safe and appropriate
    • Providing consent for any changes to supervision arrangements

    Contact

    For safeguarding concerns or questions about this policy: