1. Purpose
This policy sets out First Kick Football’s approach to the use of mobile phones and personal devices to protect children, staff, and visitors from potential safeguarding risks. It complies with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS 2024), Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE 2025), Working Together to Safeguard Children (2023), and the Data Protection Act 2018 (UK GDPR).
2. Scope
This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, visitors, parents, and contractors at First Kick Football settings. It covers the use of mobile phones, smartwatches, tablets, and any device capable of capturing or storing images, video, or audio.
3. General Principles
- The safety and welfare of children is the priority at all times.
- Personal devices must not be used to take photographs, videos, or audio recordings of children.
- All images of children must be taken using setting-owned equipment, stored securely, and only shared in line with the Data Protection Policy.
- Staff must keep personal phones stored away during working hours and only use them during designated breaks in staff areas. The only exception is the Holiday Club Manager, who is permitted to keep their phone on them so that Head Office can contact them and in case of emergencies.
- Visitors and parents are asked not to use mobile phones on the premises unless in designated areas.
- Any concerns relating to inappropriate use of mobile phones must be reported immediately to the Holiday Club Manager or the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).
4. Roles & Responsibilities
- Operations Director – oversee policy implementation and ensure compliance with safeguarding requirements.
- Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) – monitor adherence to the policy and respond to breaches.
- Holiday Club Manager – ensure staff, parents, and visitors are aware of and follow this policy.
- All Staff – comply with the policy and model safe practice regarding mobile phone use.
5. Breaches of Policy
Breaches of this policy will be taken seriously. Staff who fail to adhere may face disciplinary action. Visitors or contractors who do not comply may be asked to leave the premises. Any safeguarding concerns will be addressed in line with the Safeguarding & Child Protection Policy.
6. Review
This policy will be reviewed annually, or sooner if required by legislation, guidance, or organisational changes.