Lone Working Policy

1. Purposes and Principles 

1.1 The purpose of this policy is to ensure the safety of staff, students and all other persons involved in lessons, workshops or tutoring provided by us when working alone or in isolated settings.

1.2 We are committed to:
a. Maintaining a safe and professional environment at all times.
b. Working in an open and transparent way.
c. Acting in the best interests of students and participants.

2. Scope

2.1 This policy applies to all lessons, workshops or tutoring sessions delivered:
a. In our studio
b. In clients’ homes or other off-site venues
c. Online

2.2 It covers all staff and tutors working one-to-one or in isolated settings, including situations where:

• Tutors are the only adult present with children

• Tutors work away from the studio or outside normal hours

3. General Principles for Lone Working

3.1 We must ensure that:
a. Parents/carers provide up-to-date contact details and are available if needed during sessions.
b. Sessions are conducted in well-lit, ventilated and safe spaces.
c. Emergency procedures, including mobile phone and first aid access, are in place and known.
d. Any potential hazards are risk-assessed prior to the session.
e. Tutors maintain a professional, calm and safe environment at all times.

4. Communication and Contact

4.1 Tutors should:
a. Keep mobile phones charged and accessible.
b. Inform friends or family of their location and expected return times.
c. Ensure emergency contacts for students, parents, and themselves are readily available and nearby.
d. Maintain brief session records, including work covered, people present, and any issues.

4.2 Tutors must not share personal phone numbers, home addresses or personal email addresses with students. Any communication should involve parents/guardians.

5. Conduct and Professional Behaviour

5.1 Tutors should:
a. Maintain professional boundaries at all times.
b. Avoid situations that may place themselves or students at risk.
c. Wear appropriate clothing and act in a professional manner.
d. Keep discussions focused on lessons or workshops.
e. Terminate sessions if they feel unsafe and contact parents/carers, the NSPCC, LADO or the police as appropriate.

5.2 Tutors should not administer medication, unless it is life-saving (e.g., EpiPen), in which case appropriate procedures must be followed.

6. Art Lessons and Workshops – Off-Site

6.1 When working away from the studio:
a. Tutors should never enter a home or venue alone unless a parent/carer is present.
b. Work in open areas where doors are left open while maintaining safeguarding measures.
c. Keep mobile phones switched on.
d. Parents, friends or family should be aware of whereabouts and expected return times.
e. If tutors feel uncomfortable with any behaviour from students, parents, or other adults, the session should be ended immediately and incidents recorded.

6.2 Online lessons for children:
a. Sessions should not be recorded.
b. Parents should be in earshot and with the room door open.

7. Safety in the Studio

7.1 When working in our studio:
a. Tutors remain in the studio for the duration of the session.
b. Emergency posters with contact details are displayed and known to students and adults present.
c. Light, ventilation and room temperature should be checked before sessions.
d. Any incidents, upset, distress or behavioural changes should be recorded.

8. Health and Safety Considerations

8.1 Tutors shall:
a. Treat students fairly, without prejudice or discrimination.
b. Maintain appropriate language and behaviour.
c. Avoid inappropriate contact with students.
d. Ensure the learning environment does not display inappropriate material.
e. Record and report any unsafe or illegal behaviour in line with safeguarding procedures.

8.2 Tutors should follow all relevant Health and Safety, Child Protection and Safeguarding Policies.

9. Personal Safety Guidelines for Lone Workers

9.1 Tutors should:
a. Keep personal items, money, and keys secure.
b. Maintain a record of each session, including people present, activities, and any issues.
c. Complete risk assessments for the studio, each venue, and planned activities.
d. Know safeguarding procedures and emergency contacts.
e. If feeling threatened, leave the session, ensure students are with a responsible adult, record the incident, and contact NSPCC / LADO or police as needed.
f. Display emergency posters and ensure children and adults are aware of their use.

Review
Issue Date: March 2026
Updated: March 2026
Next Review: March 2027