Safeguarding Children and Vulnerable Adults Policy

Introduction

The welfare, safety and protection of children and vulnerable adults are paramount to Wheelscape Ltd and we are committed to the protection of these groups. Through any interaction we intend to create an environment in which children and vulnerable adults are safe from abuse.

All staff are aware of their individual roles and understand the procedures they must follow if they suspect abuse. Suspicion of abuse is promptly and appropriately responded to. The policy outlines how we do this.

What is a child?

Anyone who has not yet reached their 18th birthday

What is Child abuse?

Child abuse is any behaviour that is likely to cause serious harm to a child, physically, sexually, emotionally.

What is a vulnerable adult?

As defined in the psychology, sociology, social work and legal fields, a vulnerable adult, or an adult at risk, is a person over the age of 18 who is at risk of harm or who lacks some life skills.

As an organisation –

  • We conduct regular child protection and safeguarding risk assessments and monitor the implementation of any actions required

  • We use risk assessments to develop an appropriate and long-term child protection strategy

  • We assess whether the right policies are in place and, where there are gaps, we ensure that appropriate procedures are developed

  • We ensure that staff and managers are committed to implementing these policies and abiding by them – this is everyone’s responsibility if children and vulnerable people are to be kept safe

  • We ensure that safeguarding sits at the heart of the organisation, ideally in the risk or health and safety function

  • We ensure that staff are trained in recognising safeguarding concerns, what to do and who to speak to, if they occur

  • We have reporting channels in place; any issues raised are treated seriously and carefully to ensure that there is confidence and that the right actions will be taken if a concern is raised

  • We ensure that the designated person with responsibility for safeguarding has the knowledge and authority to investigate and escalate any allegations or concerns appropriately, contacting the relevant authorities as needed.

  • We ensure that appropriate and suitable people are recruited to the organisation with enhanced DBS checks conducted and a comprehensive record system maintained

  • We consider complex issues such as parental consent, data protection and the use of children’s images in marketing, as these are included within the safeguarding policy area

Selection of new staff:

  • Job adverts will outline the company’s stance and request Enhanced DBS and references

  • Application forms will ask for full job history and criminal convictions

  • At interview applicants will be required to provide photographic identification and original qualification certificates and DBS documents

  • During the interview process applicants will be required to complete a series of scenarios to establish their morals and values

  • A full disclosure DBS check will be taken for all new applicants

  • All applicants will be interviewed and will be asked to provide at least two references. All such references will be followed up. In the case of applicants with unexplained gaps in their employment history, or who have moved rapidly from one job to another, explanations will be sought.

  • Appointments will be subject to a probationary period

Training:

  • Staff will undergo internal training during the induction process and have on going training through out their employment.

Allegation of abuse against a staff member:

Staff should avoid putting themselves in situations that may lead to allegations being made against them.

If a parent, member of staff or other concerned person suspects a member of staff of abuse emotional, physical, sexual and abuse) this should be reported to a Director immediately.

Where necessary the relevant member of staff will be suspended whilst the matter is investigated and the relevant authorities will be informed.

We recognise the importance of not interfering in any investigation by child protection authorities or the police.

  • Confidentiality will be observed at all time and only those people directly involved in the situation, will be informed.

  • Staff will only be reinstated if allegations have been investigated and are found to be incorrect.

Procedure in the event of an allegation:

  • If any parent/teacher/carer or member of the public talks to a member of staff they need to be directed to a Director.

  • All the information will be accurately recorded

  • The member of staff will be suspended whilst an investigation takes place.

  • Confidentiality will be observed at all times.

  • Staff will only be reinstated if the allegation has been investigated and found to be incorrect.