1. Introduction

Ohwa Film is dedicated to fostering a safe, supportive, and respectful environment for all our cast, crew, collaborators, and contributors. We believe that creative excellence is only possible when the physical and psychological well-being of every individual is prioritised.

We recognise our responsibility to identify and mitigate risks, with a proactive commitment to safeguarding groups who may be more vulnerable to harm. This policy outlines the framework and procedures we have in place to ensure everyone involved in our projects is protected.

2. Scope

This policy is universal and applies to all projects produced by Ohwa Film, regardless of genre, budget, or location. It extends to all creative and technical personnel (including cast and crew), production staff, contributors, and any individual participating in or featured in our productions.

3. Responsibilities

Upholding this policy is a collective responsibility shared by everyone on an Ohwa Film project.

Production Team & Management are responsible for:

• Conducting thorough risk assessments.
• Ensuring all locations are secure and equipped with appropriate facilities (e.g., restrooms, changing areas).
• Providing the necessary training and resources for cast and crew to work safely.
• Clearly communicating safety protocols and reporting procedures.

Cast & Crew are responsible for:

• Being aware of the project’s risks and actively participating in their mitigation.
• Looking out for their own well-being and that of their colleagues.
• Immediately reporting any safety or well-being concerns to the designated Safeguarding Lead or a senior member of the production team.

4. Procedures

Ohwa Film has the following procedures in place to protect the safety and well-being of all project participants:

• Risk Assessments: Comprehensive risk assessments are conducted for every project to identify, evaluate, and mitigate potential hazards to both physical and mental well-being. These are live documents, updated as the production evolves.
• Training: Relevant training on health, safety, and well-being practices is provided to all cast and crew, with specialist training offered where necessary (e.g., working with vulnerable groups or stunts).
• Monitoring: We implement ongoing monitoring throughout the production lifecycle to ensure our high standards of safety and care are consistently met.
• Reporting: A clear, confidential, and accessible reporting procedure is established for every production, ensuring anyone can voice concerns without fear of reprisal.

5. Vulnerable Groups

We formally recognise that some individuals may be more vulnerable to harm. These groups include, but are not limited to:

• Children and young people
• People with disabilities
• People from ethnic minority groups
• People with mental health conditions
• People who have experienced trauma

To ensure these individuals are especially protected, we will be:

• Providing specialist training to cast and crew who will be working with vulnerable groups.
• Appointing a designated Safeguarding Lead on productions involving vulnerable individuals.
• Ensuring appropriate support, resources, and, where applicable, chaperones are readily available.

6. Enforcement

Any breach of this Duty of Care policy is taken extremely seriously. All reports will be thoroughly and confidentially investigated. A confirmed breach may result in disciplinary action, up to and including the termination of contract or employment.

7. Conclusion

At Ohwa Film, we believe a safe and supportive environment is the foundation of creativity. This policy is a cornerstone of our commitment to ensuring that every person who works with us can do so with confidence and without fear of harm.

If you have any questions about this policy, please contact David Mills or Susan Rutledge @ hello@ohwafilm.com.