Semibreve CIC Safeguarding Policy
1. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to ensure the safety and protection of children, young people, and vulnerable adults who participate in activities or services provided by Semibreve CIC. We are committed to creating a safe and positive environment for all our stakeholders.
2. Scope
This policy applies to all employees, volunteers, contractors, and any other individuals working on behalf of Semibreve CIC.
3. Definitions
- Safeguarding: Protecting children, young people, and vulnerable adults from abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
- Child/Young Person: Any individual under the age of 18.
- Vulnerable Adult: Any individual aged 18 or over who is at risk of abuse or neglect due to the presence of various factors such as disability, age, illness, or other circumstances.
4. Policy Statement
Semibreve CIC is committed to safeguarding the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults by:
- Ensuring that all staff and volunteers are aware of their responsibilities in relation to safeguarding.
- Providing appropriate training and support to staff and volunteers.
- Establishing clear procedures for reporting and responding to safeguarding concerns.
- Promoting a culture of openness and accountability.
5. Responsibilities
5.1. Board of Directors
- Ensure the safeguarding policy is in place, reviewed annually, and adhered to by all members of the organisation.
- Allocate resources for the implementation of the safeguarding policy.
5.2. Safeguarding Officer
- Act as the main point of contact for safeguarding concerns.
- Provide guidance and support to staff and volunteers on safeguarding matters.
- Ensure all safeguarding incidents are recorded and reported appropriately.
5.3. Staff and Volunteers
- Understand and comply with the safeguarding policy.
- Attend mandatory safeguarding training.
- Report any safeguarding concerns to the Safeguarding Officer immediately.
6. Procedures
6.1. Recruitment and Selection
- Implement robust recruitment procedures to ensure that individuals who work with children, young people, and vulnerable adults are suitable for their roles.
- Conduct thorough background checks, including DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks where applicable.
6.2. Training
- Provide safeguarding training for all staff and volunteers at the start of their involvement with Semibreve CIC and refresh it annually.
6.3. Reporting Concerns
- Any member of staff or volunteer who has concerns about the welfare of a child, young person, or vulnerable adult should report their concerns immediately to the Safeguarding Officer.
- The Safeguarding Officer will assess the information and decide on the appropriate course of action, which may include reporting to external authorities such as social services or the police.
6.4. Responding to Disclosures
- Listen carefully to any disclosures made by children, young people, or vulnerable adults.
- Do not promise confidentiality; explain that you must share the information with the Safeguarding Officer.
- Record the disclosure accurately and promptly report it to the Safeguarding Officer.
6.5. Record Keeping
- Maintain detailed records of all safeguarding concerns, incidents, and actions taken. These records should be stored securely and only accessible to those who need to know.
7. Code of Conduct
All staff and volunteers must adhere to the following code of conduct to ensure the safety and well-being of children, young people, and vulnerable adults:
- Always work in an open environment and avoid situations where you are alone with a child, young person, or vulnerable adult.
- Respect the rights, dignity, and worth of every individual.
- Use appropriate language and behaviour at all times.
- Never engage in or tolerate any form of bullying, harassment, or abuse.
8. Monitoring and Review
This policy will be reviewed annually by the Board of Directors to ensure its effectiveness. Feedback from staff, volunteers, and stakeholders will be considered in the review process.
9. Contact Information
For any questions or concerns regarding this policy, please contact:
Semibreve CIC
07972178702
1 West View
Clara Vale
Ryton
NE40 3SR
10. Approval and Review
This Safeguarding Policy was approved by the Board of Directors on 18/06/2024 and is reviewed annually.
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Document Control
- Version: 1.0
- Effective Date: 18/06/2024
- Review Date: 18/06/2025
- Approval Date: 18/06/2024
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