How we vet Buddies
- Identity and right to work verified.
- Two or more references, including the most recent and child-work where applicable, all verified.
- Enhanced DBS with Children’s Barred List for every Buddy or Manny—the correct level for child-facing roles; Basic is not sufficient. We encourage the DBS Update Service and re-check regularly.
- Safeguarding induction and refreshers before and during placements.
- Code of Conduct signed, covering boundaries, communication, online safety and safer working practice.
Our agency standards
- Designated Safeguarding Lead: Carly Adams—office@mybigbuddy.com.
- Core staff hold current safeguarding training, safer-recruitment training and DBS checks, to a level equivalent to school settings.
- We follow UK guidance including Keeping Children Safe in Education and Working Together to Safeguard Children.
What to expect in your placement
- Clear agreement on hours, duties, routines, travel and any medical needs.
- Support to set house rules, photo and filming permissions, and communication boundaries.
- Ongoing check-ins from the agency and a transparent incident and feedback process.
If you have a concern
- If a child is at immediate risk, call 999.
- Otherwise, contact our DSL, Carly Adams, at office@mybigbuddy.com. We’ll log, advise and, where appropriate, liaise with the LADO or relevant services.
Data protection
We keep safeguarding records secure and confidential, with access limited to authorised staff, and we retain or dispose of records in line with data-protection law.