A community association has a section that povides two childrens drama groups. Age 5 to 12yrs and 13 to 18yrs
The child protection and safegausrding policies are being drawn up and we are in debate on the scope of the 'leaders' responsibilities.
Some are saying that the safeguarding and child protection responsibility ends when the child is picked up or, in the case of older children and prior permission, they leave.
Seems correct to me, how can you be responsible after the child is picked up? Anything other would be ludicrous . Not a legal view just what seems sensible.
IMO you are correct, but it is your responsibility to make sure that the child is picked up by the correct person.
I too work in community youth theatre (8-adult) and we all undergo enhanced CRB clearance to work with the junior groups - you never know when one adult might be left in charge of a group of minors.
There is a vulnerable 17yr old and the group leaders have been picking him up after a night out because he rings says he is in trouble (for whatever reason).
He has threatened self harm and has issue with authority and behavioural problems.
They are finding it hard at times to deal with him and because of the 'inclusivity' of the group don't want to or can't ask him to leave. So go far above what is reasonable for their role as leaders.