1. Purpose
This policy establishes Wavelength Training Ltd’s commitment to safeguarding the welfare of all individuals connected to our operations, including employees, clients, contractors, volunteers, and visitors. We aim to create a safe environment, prevent harm, and protect vulnerable groups (e.g., children, adults at risk) from abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
2. Scope
Applies to:
- All staff (permanent, temporary, remote)
- Contractors, volunteers, and partners
- Clients, visitors, and community members engaged with the company
3. Definitions
- Safeguarding: Actions to promote welfare and protect from harm.
- Abuse: Physical, emotional, sexual, financial harm, neglect, or exploitation.
- Vulnerable Individuals: Those at greater risk due to age, disability, or circumstance (e.g., children, elderly, individuals with disabilities).
4. Key Principles
- Prevention: Proactive measures to minimize risks.
- Protection: Support and reporting for those at risk.
- Partnership: Collaborate with agencies (e.g., social services, police).
- Empowerment: Prioritize individuals’ voices and choices.
- Proportionality: Tailored, non-intrusive responses.
5. Roles & Responsibilities
- Company: Provide training, resources, and a clear reporting framework.
- Leadership/Board: Oversee policy implementation and review.
- Managers: Ensure team compliance, and address concerns promptly.
- Employees/Volunteers: Report concerns, follow procedures, and attend training.
- Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO): Richard Robinson – Lead investigations, and liaise with authorities.
6. Reporting Procedures
- How to Report: Immediately inform your manager or the DSO. If the incident involves a manager, contact the DSO directly.
- Confidentiality: Reports are handled discreetly; information is shared only with necessary parties.
- Anonymous Reporting: Available via the staff management portal.
- Allegations Against Staff: Investigated impartially; suspension may occur pending review.
7. Safe Recruitment
- Conduct background checks (e.g., criminal records, references) for roles involving vulnerable groups.
- Include safeguarding expectations in job descriptions and contracts.
8. Training & Awareness
- Mandatory training for all staff on recognizing abuse and reporting procedures. Refreshed regularly as per NGB guidelines
- Additional training for managers/DSO on handling cases.
9. Safe Environment
- Physical Safety: Regular risk assessments of premises.
- Code of Conduct: Guidelines on appropriate behavior (e.g., no unsupervised one-on-one contact with minors).
10. Confidentiality & Information Sharing
- Share information only to protect welfare, adhering to data protection laws.
- Document all concerns and actions securely.
11. Monitoring & Review
- Annual policy review by Leadership/Board.
- Audit procedures biennially; update based on incidents or legal changes.
12. Policy Availability
- Distributed to all staff during onboarding.
- Published on our website for stakeholders.
Contact Information
- Designated Safeguarding Officer: Richard Robinson
- Email: [email protected]
- External Support: NGBs eg PaddleUK, RYA etc
Together, we commit to a culture of safety and respect.