Mobile Phone & Wearable Technology Policy

 

LevelUP Sport & Fitness accepts that mobile technology is part of the ever-changing digital environment that we live and work in. LevelUP Sport & Fitness Club continues to foster a ‘culture of safety’ in which the children and staff are protected from abuse, harm, and distress.  We therefore have a clear policy on the acceptable use of mobile phones and other wearable technology that is understood and adhered to by everyone; staff, children and parents. 

Abiding by the terms of the club’s policy ensures that we all:

• Protect children from harm and abuse

• Ensure privacy is respected and online safety is preserved

• Prevent staff from being subject to false allegations 

• Help staff remain focused on the care of children

• Work in an open and transparent environment.

 

With the evolution of mobile and wearable technology including camera facilities as standard, it is of the upmost importance that the way we deal with mobile phones and wearable technology is managed safely. 

Staff use of mobile phones and wearable technology

Personal mobile phones belonging to members of staff should be switched off and kept hidden during working hours. 

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Director of Camp will be permitted to occasionally use a mobile device to take photos and videos with the consent of parents. These will be used for business purposes only.

Wearable technology such as Smartwatches and Fitbits are permitted to be worn by staff. 

If a member of staff needs to make an urgent personal call they can make a personal call from their mobile away from the children or group.

 

Children’s use of mobile phones

Whilst we understand that some children have mobile phones, we actively discourage them from bringing their phones with them. They will not be allowed to use them during the day and only for exceptional circumstances. If a child is seen using them throughout the day, they will be confiscated and returned at the end of the day. Parents are aware of this.

The club does not accept any responsibility for loss or damage to mobile phones brought to the club by the children.

Children must not use their mobile phone to take photographs of any kind whilst at the club. If they want a photograph of a particular activity, they can ask a member of staff to take one using the club camera.

Visitors’ use of mobile phones

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In the interest of safeguarding we ask all parents and visitors not to use their phones or other mobile devices on club premises. Taking of photographs by parents or visitors is strictly prohibited. If a parent would like to have a photograph of their child involved in an activity or at play, they can ask a member of staff to take one using the club camera. 

 

Related policies

See also: Safeguarding Children policy.