Swale Pride CIC
Safeguarding Policy for Children and Vulnerable Adults
Adopted: 08/08/2018
Next Review: 08/08/2026
1. Policy Statement
Swale Pride CIC is committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all individuals, particularly children and vulnerable adults. We believe everyone, regardless of age, disability, gender identity, race, religion, belief, or sexual orientation, has the right to protection from harm, abuse, and exploitation.
This policy outlines our commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults who engage with our services, events, and activities.
2. Definitions
● Child: Any individual under the age of 18.
● Vulnerable Adult: A person aged 18 or over who may be unable to protect themselves from harm or exploitation due to age, disability, mental health issues, or other personal circumstances.
● Abuse: A violation of an individual's human or civil rights by another person or persons. Abuse may be physical, sexual, emotional, financial, or neglectful.
3. Aims of this Policy
● To ensure that Swale Pride CIC staff, volunteers, and representatives are aware of their responsibilities in safeguarding children and vulnerable adults.
● To provide clear guidance on appropriate conduct when working with children and vulnerable adults.
● To prevent abuse and identify concerns early.
● To respond to concerns swiftly and appropriately.
4. Responsibilities
● Directors and Trustees are accountable for safeguarding within the organisation and ensuring this policy is regularly reviewed and implemented.
● Safeguarding Lead: Mary Culver, is the designated person responsible for safeguarding at Swale Pride CIC. They will act upon all safeguarding concerns and liaise with external agencies where necessary.
● All staff and volunteers are responsible for following this policy and reporting concerns or disclosures promptly.
5. Code of Conduct
All representatives of Swale Pride CIC must:
● Treat everyone with dignity and respect.
● Avoid being alone with a child or vulnerable adult where possible.
● Not engage in behaviour that may be perceived as abusive, including inappropriate language or physical contact.
● Always obtain parental/guardian consent for children participating in activities. ● Maintain appropriate professional boundaries at all times.
6. Recruitment and Training
● All staff and volunteers working with children or vulnerable adults will undergo a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check appropriate to their role.
● Safeguarding training will be provided to ensure understanding of this policy and responsibilities.
7. Reporting Concerns
If a child or vulnerable adult is at immediate risk, call 999.
If you have a safeguarding concern, contact our Safeguarding Lead:
● Name: Mary Culver
● Email: Info@swalepride.co.uk
● Phone: 07940390590
Reports will be handled sensitively, confidentially, and in line with statutory guidance.
8. Responding to a Disclosure
If someone discloses abuse:
● Listen without judgment and do not promise confidentiality.
● Reassure the person they are being taken seriously.
● Record the information accurately, including time, date, and any details shared. ● Report the concern immediately to the Safeguarding Lead.
9. Confidentiality and Data Protection
Information relating to safeguarding concerns will be shared only on a “need to know” basis. All records will be kept securely in compliance with data protection laws.
10. Review
This policy will be reviewed annually or following any significant incident or changes in legislation or organisational structure.
Approved by the Board of Directors on: 08/08/2018
Signed:
Steven Pullen
Position: Director
Swale Pride CIC