Code of Conduct Policy

The Actors Forge

Purpose

The Actors Forge is committed to providing a safe and respectful environment for children and young people. This Code of Conduct Policy outlines the expected behavior for all freelancers, employees, and visitors to ensure the protection and well-being of minors involved in our drama school, management, and production activities.

Scope

This policy applies to all freelancers, employees, and visitors who interact with or are present in any area where children are involved with The Actors Forge.

General Conduct

  1. Respect and Dignity:

    • Treat all individuals with respect and dignity. Ensure that interactions with children are professional, appropriate, and supportive.

    • Avoid any behavior that may be perceived as inappropriate or harmful.

  2. Professional Boundaries:

    • Maintain professional boundaries at all times. Avoid personal relationships with children or their families that may compromise your professional integrity.

    • Do not engage in physical contact with children except where necessary for safety and with appropriate consent.

  3. Communication:

    • Communicate with children in a manner that is clear, respectful, and age-appropriate. Use language and tone that is supportive and constructive.

    • Any communication, including electronic communication, with children must be conducted with transparency and, where applicable, with the knowledge of a parent or guardian.

  4. Supervision:

    • Ensure that children are always supervised by a responsible adult. Follow the established adult-to-child ratios and ensure that no child is left unsupervised.

    • Avoid being alone with a child in a private or secluded area.

  5. Health and Safety:

    • Adhere to health and safety protocols, including maintaining a clean and safe environment. Report any safety hazards or concerns immediately.

    • Ensure that all activities are conducted with consideration for the physical and emotional safety of children.

  6. Reporting Concerns:

    • Report any concerns or incidents related to the safety and well-being of children to the designated Safeguarding Lead promptly.

    • Cooperate fully with any investigations into concerns or allegations of abuse.

  7. Photography and Media:

    • Obtain explicit consent from parents or guardians before taking photographs or videos of children. Ensure that any media usage complies with privacy policies and is appropriate for the context.

    • Do not use personal devices to capture or share images or videos of children without permission.

  8. Behavior and Attire:

    • Dress appropriately and in a manner that reflects professionalism. Avoid attire that may be considered inappropriate or distracting.

    • Maintain a demeanor that reflects the values of The Actors Forge, including courtesy, respect, and professionalism.

Freelancers and Employees

  1. Role-Specific Conduct:

    • Follow the specific conduct guidelines related to your role, including any additional requirements for interacting with children.

    • Participate in all required child protection training and adhere to the established policies and procedures.

  2. Conflict of Interest:

    • Disclose any potential conflicts of interest that may affect your role or interactions with children. Seek guidance on how to manage any conflicts to maintain professional integrity.

Visitors

  1. Behavior:

    • Visitors must adhere to the same standards of behavior as outlined in this Code of Conduct. Treat children and staff with respect and comply with all safety and conduct protocols.

    • Visitors must be accompanied by an authorized staff member at all times while on the premises.

  2. Access:

    • Visitors must sign in at reception and receive appropriate identification or visitor badges. Ensure that all visits are pre-approved and necessary for the intended purpose.

Compliance and Enforcement

  1. Adherence:

    • All individuals must adhere to this Code of Conduct. Non-compliance may result in disciplinary action, including termination of employment, termination of freelance contracts, or exclusion from the premises.

  2. Disciplinary Action:

    • Any breaches of this Code of Conduct will be investigated and addressed according to The Actors Forge’s disciplinary procedures. This may include actions such as warnings, suspension, or termination.

Review

This Code of Conduct Policy will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary to ensure its effectiveness and alignment with best practices and legal requirements.