Safety and Qualifications

At Welcome to the Lion’s Den, we want children and families to feel comfortable with the support we provide. We combine professional training, practical experience and careful planning, with each person’s needs at the centre of their session.

My Training and Background

My qualifications and experience include:

• A degree in Social Work, including study of human growth and development.

• A safeguarding background through my work in health and social care.

• An enhanced DBS check.

• A qualification in joinery, supporting practical teaching and the safe use of tools.

• First aid training relevant to the activities I deliver.

• Defibrillator training.

Insurance is in place for the activities we provide.

Planning for Safe Activities

We use risk assessments to plan our sessions, considering the activities, equipment, surroundings and the needs of those taking part.

For activities such as fire lighting, outdoor cooking, den building and practical woodland tasks, we provide clear guidance and appropriate supervision. We introduce skills at a pace suited to the individual, helping them understand risks and practise making safer decisions.

Support Built Around the Individual

We follow person-centred planning, taking time to understand each child’s strengths, interests, communication preferences and support needs. Where appropriate, we involve parents, carers and supporting professionals.

This helps us adapt activities, guidance and breaks to the child. We listen when someone needs help, feels unsure or wants to pause, and respond with patience and clear, caring boundaries.

The same individual approach applies to adults attending our sessions.

Our aim is to create a welcoming, carefully planned environment where people can learn, build confidence and enjoy practical activities with the support they need.