Social media
Chaperones must comply with the organisation's policy. They must ensure that any content they post complies with this policy.
This means that chaperones must:
- think about what they post and don’t say anything that would bring their role as chaperone into disrepute
- ensure not to 'friend', 'follow' or accept 'friend requests' from children and young people they are or have worked with. This includes communication via:
- social media
- text messaging
- websites and social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat
- inform the designated safeguarding lead immediately if they become aware that a child is being groomed online or that they have suspicions this may be the case
Mobile phones, photographs and videos
Working with children and young people may involve the taking or recording of images. Any such work should take place with due regard to the law and the need to safeguard the privacy, dignity, safety and wellbeing of children and young people.
No phones should be used in changing rooms or personal space by chaperones. Chaperones should not be taking photographs on their own equipment or approach cast members for autographs or photos.
This means that chaperones should:
- be clear about the purpose of the activity and what will happen to the images when the activity is concluded
- ensure the child or young person:
- understands why the images are being taken
- has agreed to the activity
- is appropriately dressed
- report any concerns about any inappropriate or intrusive photographs
Access to inappropriate images on the internet
There are no circumstances that will justify adults possessing indecent images of children. Adults who access and possess links to such websites will be viewed as a significant and potential threat to children. Accessing, making and storing indecent images of children on the internet is illegal. This will lead to a criminal investigation and the individual being barred from working with children and young people if proven.
Adults should not use equipment belonging to the organisation where they work or volunteer to access adult pornography. Neither should personal equipment containing these images or links to them be brought into the place where they are carrying out their chaperone role.
Chaperones should ensure that children and young people are not exposed to any inappropriate images or web links. Chaperones need to ensure that internet equipment used by children and young people have the appropriate controls regarding access.
Where indecent images of children or other unsuitable material are found, the police and local authority designated officer (LADO) should be immediately informed. Adults will be informed not to investigate the matter or evaluate the material themselves. This may lead to evidence being contaminated which in itself can lead to criminal prosecution.