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Legal

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Police Panto Privacy Policy

The Police Panto is complying with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) directives on GDPR. 

We will not divulge any of your personal details except as follows:
 

  • Your full personal details are only accessible by The Police Panto Committee.

  • If any legal requirement to divulge your details has been requested.

  • We will not sell or share your personal information.

 

1. Collection of personal information

As a visitor to this website, you can engage in many activities without providing any personal information. In connection with other activities, such as utilising online booking software, Kent Police Panto Group may ask you to provide certain information about yourself by filling out and submitting an online form.

It is completely optional for you to engage in these activities. If you elect to engage in these activities, however, Kent Police Panto Group may ask that you provide us personal information, such as your first and last name, mailing address (including postcode), e-mail address, and other personal information.

Depending upon the activity, some of the information that we ask you to provide is identified as mandatory and some as voluntary. If you do not provide the mandatory data with respect to a particular activity, you will not be able to engage in that activity.

2. How your Personal Information is used

Police Panto Group collects your information in order to record and support your participation in the website's activities.

We may collect information about the use of the website; such as the types of services used and how many users we service on a daily basis. This information is collected in aggregate form, without identifying any user individually. Kent Police Panto Group may use this aggregate, non-identifying statistical data for statistical analysis or similar purposes.

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3. Changes in privacy policy

All personal information (personal information is defined as any information that identifies or can be used to identify, contact or locate the person to whom such information pertains) that we collect and maintain will be subject to the version of the privacy policy in effect at the time of such collection.

Police Panto Group reserves the right to change the privacy policy from time to time at its sole discretion, and will provide notice of material changes on the homepage of the website. If as the result of such changes, you want to alter the ways in which Kent Police Panto is allowed to use your personal information, you can do so by contacting us for further information.

You will be deemed to have been made aware of, and will be subject to, the changes to the privacy policy by your continued use of the website after such notice has been posted for thirty (30) days with the following exception: if at the time you provide personal information to Kent Police Panto Group, you are given the opportunity (as you currently are) to limit how such information will be used to communicate with you by Kent Police Panto Group. We will not change your preference in this regard without your express consent.

 

Policy last reviewed: 14th April 2025 – To be reviewed annually or following any breach.
 

Police Panto - Condition Of Entry

 

To ensure the safety, security, and enjoyment of all attendees, the following Conditions of Entry apply to all individuals attending Police Panto performances:    

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1.    Admission    

•    Entry is only permitted with a valid ticket or authorised accreditation.    

•    Management reserves the right to refuse admission for reasons including, but not limited to, breach of these conditions, safety concerns, or at the venue’s discretion.    

 

2.    Security & Bag Checks    

•    All bags and personal items may be subject to search upon entry.    

•    Prohibited items include weapons, illegal substances, alcohol, and any items considered a risk to public safety.    

•    Refusal to consent to searches may result in denial of entry.    

 

3.    Conduct    

•    All attendees must conduct themselves in a respectful manner.    

•    Abusive, disruptive, or inappropriate behaviour toward staff, volunteers, performers, or other guests will not be tolerated and may result in removal without refund.    

•    Any individual found to be intoxicated or under the influence of illegal substances will be refused entry or removed.    

 

4.    Children & Supervision    

•    Children under 16 must be accompanied by a responsible adult.  

 •    The supervising adult is responsible for the conduct and safety of any minors in their care throughout the event.    

 

5.    Photography & Recording    

•    Photography and video recording are not permitted during the performance unless explicitly authorised.    

•    Mobile phones and other electronic devices should be silenced for the duration of the performance.    

 

6.    Emergency Procedures    

•    In the event of an emergency, attendees must follow all instructions given by event staff or emergency services personnel.    

 

7.    Health & Safety    

•    Attendees must not obstruct aisles, exits, or access routes.    

•    Smoking, including the use of e-cigarettes and vapes, is strictly prohibited within the venue.    

 

8.    Ticket Terms  

•    Tickets are non-refundable unless the event is cancelled or rescheduled.    

•    Lost or stolen tickets will not be replaced.    

 

9.    Venue Rules    

•    All patrons must adhere to the policies of the hosting venue. Additional conditions may apply as specified by the theatre.

 

Policy last reviewed: 14th April 2025 – To be reviewed annually or following any major incident.

The Police Panto – Counter-Terrorism Policy 

(The Terrorist Protection of Premises Act 2025)

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  1. Introduction This document sets out our commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all audience members, cast, crew, volunteers, and venue staff involved in our productions at The Taylor Hall Theatre, Ramsgate. In accordance with the Terrorism Protection of Premises Act 2025 (commonly referred to as Martyn's Law), The Police Pantomime Group (PPG) has adopted proportionate measures to reduce the risk of, and prepare for potential terrorist incidents.

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Definition of a Terrorist Incident: A terrorist incident is an act or threat of serious violence, damage, or disruption intended to intimidate or influence the public, government, or an organisation for ideological, political, religious, or social purposes. It typically involves the use or threat of weapons, explosives, or other methods aimed at causing fear, harm, or mass casualties, and is usually premeditated with the goal of advancing a particular cause or belief.

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2. Scope This policy applies to all individuals involved in The Police Pantomime Group including:

  • Cast and crew

  • Volunteers and backstage personnel

  • Audience members

  • Venue staff and contractors

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3. Venue Overview The Taylor Hall Theatre is a fixed venue located within Ramsgate, hosting public performances of The Police Pantomime Group, accommodating up to 500 audience members per performance and around 50 cast/crew. The venue qualifies under the "Standard Tier" of Martyn’s Law, with no events planned that may meet the criteria of the "Enhanced Tier."

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4. Responsibilities

  • Committee Chairman: Overall responsibility for the implementation of this policy at each performance.

  • Stage Manager: Oversees cast and crew briefings and ensures backstage compliance.

  • Front of House Manager: Ensures the safety of audience members and stewards.

  • Designated Premises Supervisor: Collaborates with PPG to maintain a secure environment.

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5. Terrorism Risk Assessment For each production run, a bespoke terrorism risk assessment is completed prior to each performance, considering:

  • Number and type of attendees (family audiences, children, VIPs, etc.)

  • Public access to the venue and surrounding areas

  • Rehearsals and peak performance times

  • Specific threats or tensions relevant to policing or political satire (depending on production themes)

  • Potential symbolic targeting of police-affiliated groups

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The risk assessment will include:

  • Entry/exit point vulnerability

  • Vehicle threats (Taylor Hall car park/street access)

  • Suspicious package protocol

  • Emergency services access

  • Roles and responsibilities in an incident

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6. Security Measures in Place

  • Pre-event briefings to all cast/crew on emergency procedures

  • Staff trained in basic first aid and location of AED

  • Designated assembly points for cast/crew and audience in case of evacuation

  • Audience encouraged to report suspicious behaviour via posters and announcements

  • Bag checks conducted randomly on high-profile nights

  • Secure storage for props and costume items to avoid confusion or misuse (eg. fake firearms).

  • Cast/Crew understand the PA warning for a suspicious person/package/behavior.

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7. Training and Awareness

  • All senior team members complete the ACT (Action Counters Terrorism) Awareness eLearning

  • Cast and crew receive annual briefings on basic safety and terrorism response awareness

  • Dedicated point of contact within the team for all safety/security-related concerns

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8. Emergency Response Plan The Emergency Response Plan includes:

  • Evacuation procedure for audience (led by stewards and FOH team)

  • Cast/crew exit plan (via backstage or emergency side exits)

  • Lockdown procedure if safe exit is not possible

  • Communication tree (radios/phones) for rapid information sharing

  • Liaison plan with emergency services (police/fire/ambulance)

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9. Review and Testing

  • Annual full review of this policy

  • Pre-show walk-through with venue and emergency services if deemed necessary

  • Practice evacuation once per production season during rehearsals (no audience)

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10. Communication of Policy This policy is circulated to all key members of the PPG team and made available to Taylor Hall Theatre management. Summary posters outlining key procedures are displayed in:

  • FOH box office

  • Dressing rooms

  • Stage wings

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11. Contact Details

  • Police Panto Chairman: contact@thepolicepanto.co.uk

  • Venue Contact: St Lawrence College

  • Local Emergency Services: Kent Police (non-emergency: 101)

  • In Case of Emergency: Dial 999

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12. Conclusion The safety of everyone involved in The Police Pantomime Group is our top priority. By taking these steps under Martyn’s Law, we aim to deliver joyful performances in a safe and well-prepared environment for everyone.

 

Policy last reviewed: 14th April 2025 – To be reviewed annually or following any major incident.

The Police Panto – Safeguarding Policy 

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The Police Panto recognises its duty of care under the Children and Young Persons Act 1963, the Child (Performances) Regulations 1968, the Protection of Children Act 1999, The Children (Performances and Activities) (England) Regulations 2014, and the Criminal Justice and Court Services Act 2000.

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We acknowledge that abuse can take many forms – physical, emotional, sexual, or neglect. The Police Panto is committed to safeguarding children from harm and ensuring safe practice across all aspects of the production. All individuals involved in The Police Panto understand and accept their responsibilities to be alert to signs of harm and to take appropriate action if needed.

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A “child” is legally defined as any person under the age of 18. Although young people aged 16 to 18 may legally work, marry, or live independently, The Police Panto recognises the need to safeguard everyone under 18 equally.

 

1. Our Commitment

    •    The welfare of the child is paramount.

    •    All children, regardless of age, background, disability, gender, language, race, religion, or sexual identity, have the right to protection from harm.

    •    All suspicions or allegations of abuse will be taken seriously and responded to promptly and appropriately.

    •    All children will be treated equally, with respect and dignity.

    •    A culture of mutual trust and open communication will be fostered.

    •    Positive feedback will be given; negative criticism is not tolerated.

    •    Bullying in any form will not be accepted or condoned.

    •    Adults involved in The Police Panto will be expected to lead by example in behaviour and attitude.

 

2. Working with Parents

A register will be maintained of all children participating, from rehearsals through to performances. Parents will be required to complete a form including the child’s full name, address, parent/guardian details, any medical needs or allergies, and emergency contact information. This will be held by the Director, and shared securely with the Child Protection Officer and relevant chaperones.

Children must be signed in and out at each session. They will not be released unless a parent or named adult has made themselves known to the chaperone. If a child is allowed to travel home alone, written consent must be provided to the Director or chaperone in advance.

Parents will also be asked to give written consent for their child’s participation in The Police Panto and for any photography or video in line with our media policy.

 

3. Unsupervised Contact

The Police Panto will always aim to avoid unsupervised contact between adults and children. A minimum of two adults will be present wherever possible. If one-on-one contact is unavoidable, it must only occur if the adult has been appropriately checked and cleared to work with children.

 

4. General Conduct

Children under 16 will be supervised at all times by a registered chaperone, appointed by The Police Panto. Chaperones act in loco parentis and are expected to exercise a standard of care consistent with that of a responsible parent.

    •    Children must be treated with respect in all interactions.

    •    Physical contact should only occur when absolutely necessary and appropriate to the activity.

    •    Permission and explanation should always be given when physical contact is required.

    •    Dressing rooms will be single-sex and designated exclusively for children.

    •    Children who are unwell will not be permitted to perform.

 

5. Photography and Video

No photography or filming of children will be allowed without prior consent from both the child and their parent/guardian. Audience members are strictly prohibited from taking photos or videos during performances. Any breaches will be addressed immediately.

Only the officially appointed photographer/videographer will be permitted to film or photograph, and only with appropriate permissions.

 

6. Suspicion of Abuse

If anyone involved with The Police Panto suspects or witnesses abuse, they must record and report it to the appropriate authorities immediately. It is not their responsibility to investigate, but to pass information on confidentially to ensure it is handled by the relevant professionals.

 

7. Disclosure of Abuse

If a child discloses abuse to a member of The Police Panto, the matter must be reported immediately to the Child Protection Officer. A written note should be made of what the child said, including any relevant dates or times. Confidentiality will be maintained at all times.

 

8. Accidents

Chaperones and children will be informed of basic health and safety rules, including off-limit areas and appropriate clothing/footwear. Should an accident occur, appropriate first aid will be administered, and the incident recorded in the accident log.

9. Physical Contact

All adults will maintain appropriate boundaries with children. Physical contact should only occur if essential to the activity, and with the child’s understanding and consent. The purpose of any contact must always be explained.

 

10. Arriving at the Theatre

Upon arrival at the theatre, the Stage Manager will brief all cast, crew, and chaperones on house rules, including safety procedures and evacuation routes. Dressing rooms should be kept tidy to prevent accidents. Everyone is expected to listen and act in accordance with these guidelines.

 

11. Summary

This policy exists to:

    •    Protect children and young people involved in The Police Panto.

    •    Provide guidance to chaperones and staff on handling concerns.

    •    Raise awareness of safeguarding responsibilities.

    •    Promote a culture of safety, openness, and trust.

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The Police Panto recognises that the welfare of the child is paramount. Every child has a right to protection from abuse, regardless of personal background or identity. By working together with children, parents, and relevant agencies, we are committed to ensuring that our productions are fun, inclusive, and above all—safe.

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Policy last reviewed: 14th April 2025 – To be reviewed annually or following any incident.

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