Safeguarding Policy

Wild Lakenham Trustees have agreed the following safeguarding policy for children under 18 and vulnerable adults:

Wild Lakenham Safeguarding Policy 

1. Introduction Wild Lakenham is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all children, young  people, and vulnerable adults who participate in our community events. This policy outlines our approach to  safeguarding and promoting welfare, providing guidance for all members, volunteers, and participants. 

2. Purpose of the Policy This policy aims to: 

• Protect children, young people, and vulnerable adults who engage with Wild Lakenham activities. • Provide clear procedures for identifying, reporting, and responding to safeguarding concerns. • Ensure volunteers understand their responsibilities in regard to safeguarding. 

3. Scope of the Policy This policy applies to: 

• All volunteers, organisers, and members of Wild Lakenham. 

• All participants at Wild Lakenham events, regardless of age, disability, gender, racial or ethnic origin,  religion, or sexual orientation. 

4. Legal Framework This policy aligns with: 

• The Children Act 1989 and 2004 

• The Care Act 2014 

• Working Together to Safeguard Children (HM Government) 

• Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 

• Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR 

5. Definitions 

• Child: Anyone under 18 years of age. 

• Vulnerable Adult: Someone aged 18 or over who may need care services by reason of disability, age, or  illness and is unable to protect themselves from harm. 

6. Safeguarding Principles 

• The welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults is paramount. 

• All individuals have the right to be protected from abuse, neglect, or exploitation. • Wild Lakenham takes a zero-tolerance approach to abuse in any form. 

7. Responsibilities All Wild Lakenham volunteers and organisers must: 

• Treat all participants with respect and dignity. 

• Be vigilant and aware of potential safeguarding concerns. 

• Follow safeguarding procedures when concerns arise. 

8. Safeguarding Procedures 

8.1 Recognising Abuse Abuse can take many forms, including: 

• Physical abuse 

• Emotional or psychological abuse 

• Sexual abuse 

• Neglect 

• Financial or material abuse (for vulnerable adults) 

8.2 Reporting Concerns If a volunteer or participant suspects abuse or has a safeguarding concern:

• Report the concern to the designated safeguarding officer (DSO) immediately. If unavailable, contact  the deputy DSO or event leader. 

• In cases of immediate danger, contact emergency services by calling 999. 

• Record all details accurately and confidentially. 

8.3 Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO) Wild Lakenham’s designated safeguarding officer is responsible for: • Receiving and handling safeguarding concerns. 

• Liaising with external agencies as necessary (e.g., local authority safeguarding teams). • Ensuring safeguarding policies and practices are up to date. 

9. Trustee Recruitment and Training 

• Trustees must disclose any unspent convictions that could affect our confidence in their ability to  uphold safeguarding standards. 

• Trustees must complete basic safeguarding awareness training. 

• All volunteers will be provided with a copy of this policy and expected to adhere to its guidelines. 10. Code of Conduct for Volunteers Volunteers must: 

• Always work in an open and transparent manner. 

• Avoid being alone with children or vulnerable adults. 

• Refrain from inappropriate physical contact. 

• Report any safeguarding concerns promptly. 

11. Safe Practices at Events 

• All events will be conducted in public spaces to ensure transparency. 

• A minimum of two trustees will be present at all times during activities. 

• No transport will be provided; participants are responsible for their travel arrangements. 12. Confidentiality 

• Safeguarding concerns will be handled confidentially and shared only with relevant authorities on a  need-to-know basis. 

13. Monitoring and Review 

• This policy will be reviewed by the trustees annually or in response to significant changes in legislation  or best practices. 

14. Contacts 

• Designated Safeguarding Officer: Rebecca Dale (07901 822694) 

• Deputy Designated Safeguarding Officer: David Hawkyard (07986 891751) 

• Local Authority Safeguarding Team: 0344 800 8020 

• Emergency Services: Call 999 

15. Policy Approval This safeguarding policy has been approved by Wild Lakenham’s trustees and will be  implemented from 21/12/2024