Safeguarding policy
Bradford International Film Festival Safeguarding Policy
Bradford International Film Festival CIC believes that it is always unacceptable for a child or young person to experience abuse of any kind and recognises its responsibility to safeguard the welfare of all children and young people, by a commitment to practice which protects them.
We recognise that:
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the welfare of the child/young person is paramount, as noted in the Children Act 1989
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all children, regardless of age, disability, gender, racial heritage, religious belief, sexual orientation or identity, have the right to equal protection from all types of harm or abuse
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working in partnership with children, young people, their parents, carers and other agencies is essential in promoting young people’s welfare.
The purpose of the policy:
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To provide protection for the children and young people who receive Bradford International Film festival services, including the children of adult members or users.
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To provide staff and volunteers with guidance on procedures they should adopt in the event that they suspect a child or young person may be experiencing, or be at risk of, harm.
This policy applies to all those involved with the Festival, including the board of trustees, paid staff, volunteers and sessional workers, agency staff, students or anyone working on behalf of Bradford International Film Festival.
We will seek to safeguard children and young people by:
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valuing them, listening to and respecting them and adopting child protection guidelines through procedures and a code of conduct for those volunteering at the Bradford International Film Festival
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sharing information about child protection and good practice with children, parents, staff and volunteers as and when required
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sharing information about concerns with agencies who need to know, and involving parents and children appropriately
Legal framework
This policy has been drawn up on the basis of law and guidance that seeks to protect children, namely: Children Act 1989
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United Convention of the Rights of the Child 1991
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Data Protection Act 1998
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Sexual Offences Act 2003
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Children Act 2004
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Protection of Freedoms Act 2012
SUSTAINABILITY policy
In 2019 the City of Bradford Metropolitan District Council (CBMDC) declared a climate emergency and pledged to become a net zero district by 2038, with significant progress in reducing emissions by 2030, ahead of the UK government’s net zero strategy. The council has set out a vision for 2038 of ‘a sustainable, healthy, vibrant and inclusive Bradford District, ready to seize opportunities and working together to overcome the challenges of a changing climate.’ In keeping with these aims, Bradford District has adopted a culture strategy titled "Culture is our Plan" that aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The strategy recognises that sustainable development is not just about reducing carbon emissions but also encompasses areas such as equality, quality jobs, education, well-being, and poverty reduction.
Bradford International Film Festival (BRADIFF) is committed to embedding environmental sustainability into all aspects of our work. We recognise the urgent need to act on the climate crisis and align with the Bradford District Climate Action Plan, the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and sector frameworks such as the Green Cinema Toolkit from the BFI and Julie’s Bicycle.
Our approach is guided by three principles:
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Credibility: We will not make unsubstantiated claims. We will first establish a robust baseline of our environmental impact.
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Inclusion: We acknowledge the intersection between climate justice and diversity. BRADIFF will amplify voices from communities most affected by climate change, including programming that reflects global perspectives from regions facing climate crises.
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Collaboration: We will work with partners including SAIL, BFI, Film Hub North, FAN, and the National Lottery to deliver meaningful change.
We are committed to the sustainable future of Bradford International Film Festival and achieving CBMDC’s net zero by 2038 target and we are well placed within communities to raise awareness and start discussions about a just transition to a sustainable, net zero future.
Our main commitments as part of this plan are:
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Reduce reliance on fossil fuels and prioritise renewable energy where possible.
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Promote low-carbon travel for audiences, artists, and staff.
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Minimise waste and encourage reuse and recycling.
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Engage suppliers on sustainability and prioritise local procurement.
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Integrate sustainability into programming and advocacy.
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Measure and report environmental impact annually.
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Review this policy every November.
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Build capacity through staff and volunteer training, starting with SAIL’s free 1-hour Introduction to the Climate Crisis course.
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Align with BFI and FAN sustainability guidance and the Green Cinema Toolkit.
Diversity and anti-bullying policies
Bradford International Film Festival subscribes to the BFI Diversity and Anti-Bullying Policies.
Please see the links below to read them.
BFI: Bullying and Harassment Policy
BFI: Diversity Standards for Audiences