(For Voice Note Submissions from Children Under 18)

Audio Always supports the production of Today with Tonies on behalf of Tonies. This
document explains how we safeguard children and young people whose voice notes are
submitted to the podcast.

Who is involved and who is responsible

Today with Tonies is a podcast produced for Tonies. Tonies is the brand commissioning the
podcast. Audio Always is the production company supporting the creation and delivery of the
podcast.

Audio Always works closely with Tonies to ensure that all contributions from children are
gathered, reviewed and used responsibly.

Audio Always retains responsibility for editorial handling of contributions and day-to-day
safeguarding practices. Any safeguarding concerns are escalated collaboratively with
Tonies.

Roles, responsibilities and safeguarding oversight

Audio Always is committed to protecting the welfare of children and young people involved in
its productions.

In line with our safeguarding practices:

• All producers working on Today with Tonies are DBS checked to the appropriate level
• Contributions from children are reviewed by adults before use
• Children are not contacted directly without parental involvement
• No personal contact details are shared with children or families

Audio Always has a Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO) responsible for receiving and
responding to safeguarding concerns.

Parental involvement and confirmation

Voice notes must be submitted by a parent or legal guardian. If a child’s contribution is
selected for inclusion, a parent or guardian will be contacted to confirm their understanding
of how the contribution will be used. This contact forms part of our safeguarding process and
helps ensure that parents remain informed and involved.

Editorial responsibility and topic suitability

Audio Always takes editorial responsibility for ensuring that Today with Tonies is suitable for
its intended audience.

This includes:

• Selecting topics with children’s wellbeing in mind
• Avoiding material that could cause distress, discomfort or unintended consequences
• Editing contributions to ensure they are appropriate, respectful and safe
• Choosing not to use submissions where there are safeguarding or editorial concerns

Not all submissions will be included in the podcast.

Anonymity and protection of identity

To protect children’s privacy and safety, only first names or pseudonyms are used as
standard. Locations are kept to a broad level (e.g. city or region) and no identifying personal
information is shared publicly. Any exception to this approach would only be considered on a
case-by-case basis with full parental understanding and agreement.

Safeguarding concerns, escalation and takedowns

If a safeguarding concern arises, Audio Always will act promptly and responsibly. Concerns
may be escalated to Tonies where appropriate and relevant external authorities may be
contacted if required.

You may request removal of your child’s contribution at any time.

For editorial queries or takedown requests: today@tonies.com
For safeguarding concerns contact Amelia Collingwood, Designated Safeguarding Officer for
Audio Always: amelia.collingwood@audioalways.com

Our commitment to protecting young people

Audio Always is committed to safeguarding children and young people in all aspects of its
work.

We aim to create safe and respectful production environments, and protect children’s
physical, emotional and digital wellbeing. We will act in the best interests of young
contributors at all times and respond quickly and appropriately to any concerns raised.