Child Protection & Safeguarding Policy

1. Policy Statement

StartLocal CIC is dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people (aged 14–18), and vulnerable young adults. We believe that every young person has the right to explore work, learning, and volunteering opportunities in a safe, secure, and nurturing environment.

2. Under-16 Mandatory Parental Oversight

In compliance with UK safeguarding standards and the Age-Appropriate Design Code:

• Young persons aged 14–15 require registered parental/guardian consent prior to active opportunity engagement.
• Parents and guardians receive notification summaries of all employer Waves and applications.
• All communications between under-16 users and employers are conducted strictly on-platform with guardian visibility.

3. Employer Vetting & Code of Conduct

Before any employer, enterprise, or training provider is permitted to interact with young people on StartLocal, they must:

• Undergo identity and business verification (Companies House / official organisation validation).
• Sign and adhere to the StartLocal Fair & Safe Youth Employment Charter.
• Ensure all youth mentors and supervisors comply with UK Working Time Regulations for young workers (maximum hours, mandatory rest periods, fair pay).

4. Secure Platform Communication & Privacy

To prevent grooming, exploitation, or harassment:

• Direct exchange of personal phone numbers, external social handles, or unmonitored messaging channels is strictly prohibited in early stages.
• Automated keyword and content filters scan for inappropriate language or safety risks.
• Any user or parent can report a concern instantly via the platform safety flag.

5. Reporting a Safeguarding Concern