Safeguarding Children and Vulnerable Adults Policy

Introduction

The London Archives (TLA) is committed to providing access to education and enjoyment to all. Central to that provision is a commitment to providing a safe environment and to protect children and vulnerable adults from harm whilst visiting The London Archives and other related City of London sites.

This policy relates to the TLA spaces which are freely accessible to the general public. Children and vulnerable adults visit TLA to see exhibitions, to attend events, school study days or youth projects, or to use the use the archive collections as part of their independent study. Our building is open to all but young people visiting the archive under 16 (outside an organised group visit) should be accompanied by an adult. The Archive Study area is only accessible to those with a History Card, which is only issued to researchers who are over 16.

We recognise that we have a responsibility to provide a safe environment for children and vulnerable adults who visit TLA. This document outlines the ways in which we aim to achieve this. The measures reflect our position as a public venue that welcomes children and vulnerable adults for one-off visits, usually accompanied by a parent/guardian, teacher or carer as well as children and adults who attend activities/workshops run by staff. For all such events or workshops individual risk assessments are carried out.

For the purposes of this policy, the following definitions apply:

1. Child: a young person under the age of 18
2. Adult at risk: any person aged 18 years or over and who is or may be in need of community care services by reason of mental or other disability, age or illness; and who is or may be unable to take care of themselves, or unable to protect themselves against significant harm or exploitation. This could include those for whom English is an additional language.
3. Responsible adult: a person over the age of 18 who assumes responsibility for a child/children or adult(s) at risk (eg teachers, parents, carers and group leaders). However, we acknowledge that some parents/carers may be under the age of 18 and will be responsible for their children while visiting TLA or taking part in TLA led activities.

Feedback

Please complete a comment form at The London Archives or contact us if you wish to give feedback on this policy.

This policy will be reviewed at least every two years to make sure it remains timely and relevant. It was last reviewed in July 2024.