Safeguarding Policy

Our Commitment to Safeguarding

My Child and Me is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children, young people, and vulnerable adults who participate in our programmes or come into contact with our services.

We believe that all children and vulnerable adults have the right to protection from harm and abuse, and we take our responsibility to safeguard participants very seriously.

Policy Statement

Who This Policy Applies To

This policy applies to:

• All staff members, volunteers, and trustees
• Programme participants and their families
• Partner organizations and contractors
• Anyone representing My Child and Me

Recognizing Abuse and Neglect

We recognize that abuse can take many forms:

Physical Abuse

Causing physical harm including hitting, shaking, throwing, poisoning, burning, or otherwise causing physical harm.

Emotional Abuse

Persistent emotional maltreatment causing severe adverse effects on emotional development, including making someone feel worthless, unloved, or inadequate.

Sexual Abuse

Forcing or enticing someone to take part in sexual activities, whether or not they are aware of what is happening.

Neglect

Persistent failure to meet basic physical and/or psychological needs, likely to result in serious impairment of health or development.

Safe Recruitment and Training

We ensure the safety of participants through:

• Enhanced DBS checks for all staff and volunteers working with children
• Thorough reference checks and identity verification
• Comprehensive safeguarding training for all team members
• Regular supervision and support for staff
• Clear codes of conduct and professional boundaries
• Annual safeguarding refresher training

Reporting Safeguarding Concerns

How to Report Concerns

1. Report concerns immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Lead
2. Record details of the concern in writing within 24 hours
3. Do not investigate the concern yourself
4. Maintain confidentiality and only share information on a need-to-know basis
5. Follow up to ensure appropriate action has been taken

What to Record

• Date, time, and location of incident or disclosure
• Names of people involved or present
• What was said or observed (using exact words where possible)
• Any physical signs or behavioral indicators
• Action taken and by whom

Key Safeguarding Contacts

External Contacts

• Local Authority Safeguarding Team: Contact your local council
• NSPCC Helpline: 0808 800 5000
• Childline: 0800 1111
• Police: 999 (emergency) or 101 (non-emergency)

Confidentiality and Information Sharing

We respect the privacy and confidentiality of all participants, but safeguarding concerns override confidentiality obligations. Information will be shared with:

• Relevant safeguarding authorities when required
• Other agencies involved in protecting the individual
• Senior management within our organization
• Legal authorities when legally required

Information will only be shared on a need-to-know basis and in accordance with data protection legislation.

Creating a Safe Environment

We maintain a safe environment through:

• Clear codes of conduct for all staff and volunteers
• Appropriate supervision ratios and arrangements
• Safe physical environments and risk assessments
• Clear procedures for activities and outings
• Regular review and updating of safeguarding practices
• Open culture where concerns can be raised

Training and Awareness

All team members receive training on:

• Recognizing signs of abuse and neglect
• How to respond to safeguarding concerns
• Reporting procedures and record keeping
• Professional boundaries and appropriate behavior
• Cultural sensitivity and inclusive practices
• Specific risks relevant to our participant groups

Policy Review

This policy is reviewed annually or following any significant incident or change in legislation. The next review date is scheduled forJune 2026.

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