Does our community group need a formal safeguarding policy?

Yes. Any organisation that works with children should have a written safeguarding policy, a named Designated Safeguarding Lead, and a clear procedure for reporting concerns. This applies regardless of the group's size or whether it is a registered charity. Your local safeguarding partnership can provide templates and support.

Can group leaders contact young people directly on social media?

No. Best practice is for all communication to go through official channels with a parent or second adult always included. Direct private messaging between an adult leader and a child is inappropriate and creates safeguarding risk. Use a group-level platform or email with parental oversight.

Child Safety for Community Groups

Safety guidance for community organisations working with children, including youth groups, faith groups, and voluntary organisations.

Community groups — from Scout troops and Guides to faith organisations and neighbourhood youth projects — play a vital role in children's development. These groups often operate with volunteer staff and limited resources, but they still carry full safeguarding responsibilities. This guide helps community group leaders establish proportionate, effective online and offline safety practices.

Why this matters

Children often build strong, trusting relationships with community group leaders, which is overwhelmingly positive. However, this trust also means that safeguarding failures in community settings can have a serious impact. Groups that take safeguarding seriously create environments where children thrive, parents have confidence, and volunteers feel supported.

Quick wins

high

Ensure all volunteers have a current DBS check before working with children

Time: Variable — apply early

high

Create a one-page safeguarding quick-reference card for all volunteers

Time: 30 minutes

medium

Set up an official group email or messaging channel for parent communication

Time: 20 minutes

Common challenges

Limited budget for safeguarding training and resources

Many local authorities offer free or low-cost safeguarding training for voluntary organisations. The NSPCC and local safeguarding partnerships also provide free online resources. Prioritise getting your Designated Safeguarding Lead trained first, then cascade key messages to volunteers.

High volunteer turnover requiring frequent onboarding

Create a simple safeguarding induction pack that every new volunteer reads and signs before working with children. Include your organisation's safeguarding policy, reporting procedure, and a quick-reference card with key contacts. This ensures consistent standards regardless of who is volunteering.

Communication with young people via social media and messaging

Establish a clear policy on adult-to-child communication. All digital contact should go through official group channels, never personal accounts. A parent or second adult should always be copied in. Avoid one-to-one private messaging between adults and children entirely.