17/04/2025
Safeguarding in Theatre: Why It Matters Now More Than Ever
Safeguarding is at the heart of a healthy, creative theatre environment. Every artist, staff member, and audience deserves to feel safe, respected, and supported—onstage, backstage, and beyond.
Recent news from Shakespeare’s Globe in London has brought these issues sharply into focus. After settling an employment dispute with actor and playwright Athena Stevens, who raised concerns about discrimination, harassment, and safeguarding failures, the Globe has committed to an independent review of its accessibility and safeguarding policies. Stevens’ experience highlights the real-world impact when safeguarding procedures fall short, especially for disabled and vulnerable artists.
“I hope this victory serves as a powerful reminder that disability and accessibility rights are crucial legal matters, not optional considerations for employers.” – Athena Stevens
At Theatredor, we believe safeguarding isn’t just a policy—it’s a culture. Here’s what good safeguarding in theatre looks like:
Clear Policies: Every theatre should have robust safeguarding and child protection policies, regularly reviewed and accessible to all.
Training and Awareness: All staff, freelancers, and volunteers must understand their responsibilities and know how to respond to concerns.
Open Communication: Concerns should be taken seriously, reported promptly, and handled with sensitivity and confidentiality.
Inclusive Practices: Accessibility and respect for all—regardless of disability, identity, or background—must be non-negotiable.
Continuous Improvement: Theatres must listen, learn, and adapt to create safer, more inclusive spaces for everyone.
The Globe’s decision to commission an independent review is a step in the right direction, but it’s a call to action for the entire industry. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility—let’s make our theatres places where creativity thrives and everyone feels safe.