Child safeguarding & photography

Before publishing a photograph or story

• Obtain and record the required informed permission from the appropriate guardian and the child's assent where appropriate; follow the home's policy if either is unavailable or permission is withdrawn.
• Assess whether publication could identify or expose a child, including through names, location details, uniforms, backgrounds, metadata, or other contextual clues.
• Use respectful, accurate, non-sensational descriptions. Never disclose case histories, health information, school details, or other confidential information.
• Use only authorized images supplied for this purpose. Do not download random photographs or reuse images from social media without permission.
• Store original media and permission records securely with access limited to authorized people; remove published material promptly if permission is withdrawn or a safeguarding concern arises.

Visitors and volunteers

Visits and volunteering must be arranged and reviewed with the home in advance. Do not photograph, contact, or share information about a child without authorization and supervision consistent with the home's approved procedures.

Reporting a concern

To discuss a safeguarding concern, call Vineyard Children's Home on 0713 019 917. Do not share identifying details about a child in public messages or social media.