Safeguarding And Child Protection Policy

Effective Date: 26/02/2025
Last Reviewed: 26/03/2025
1. Introduction
SPLAOCH Care Foundation Ltd is committed to ensuring the safety, well-being, and protection of all children, young carers, and vulnerable adults involved in our programs. We believe that every child and vulnerable individual has the right to be protected from harm, abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
This policy outlines our commitment to safeguarding and the procedures we follow to ensure a safe environment for all service users, volunteers, and staff.

2. Scope
This policy applies to:
• All SPLAOCH Care Foundation Ltd staff, volunteers, trustees, and partners.
• Any individual engaged in our programs, activities, or events.
• Anyone working with children, young carers, and vulnerable families on behalf of SPLAOCH Care Foundation Ltd.

3. Key Principles
• Zero Tolerance: We have zero tolerance for abuse, neglect, exploitation, or discrimination.
• Best Interests of the Child: The welfare of children and young carers is paramount.
• Safe Environment: We are committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all.
• Prevention: We take proactive steps to prevent harm and safeguard vulnerable individuals.
• Confidentiality & Reporting: All safeguarding concerns will be handled sensitively, ensuring confidentiality while adhering to legal reporting requirements.

4. Legal Framework
This policy aligns with relevant national and international safeguarding legislation, including but not limited to:
• The Children Act 1989 & 2004 (UK)
• The Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006
• The Working Together to Safeguard Children Guidance
• The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC)

5. Recognising Abuse & Neglect
Abuse can take many forms, including:
• Physical Abuse: Hitting, shaking, burning, or causing harm.
• Emotional Abuse: Verbal abuse, threats, humiliation, or bullying.
• Sexual Abuse: Forcing or pressuring a child into inappropriate activities.
• Neglect: Failing to provide basic needs, such as food, shelter, and supervision.

All staff and volunteers must be trained to recognise the signs of abuse and respond appropriately.

6. Safeguarding Responsibilities
6.1. Staff & Volunteers
• Must complete Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks before working with children.
• Must attend safeguarding and child protection training.
• Must report any concerns immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO).
6.2. Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO)

The DSO is responsible for:
• Handling safeguarding concerns and escalating serious cases.
• Ensuring all safeguarding policies are up to date and implemented.
• Providing guidance and training to staff and volunteers.

6.3. Trustees & Leadership Team
• Must oversee safeguarding compliance and ensure policies align with legal requirements.
• Must create a culture of accountability and transparency within the organisation.

7. Reporting & Responding to Safeguarding Concerns

• Immediate Danger: If a child is at immediate risk, staff must contact emergency services (999 in the UK) immediately.
• Reporting a Concern: Staff and volunteers must report concerns to the DSO within 24 hours.
• Confidentiality: All reports will be handled with discretion, but information may be shared with authorities when necessary.

8. Safe Recruitment & Training

• All staff and volunteers must undergo thorough background checks (DBS).
• Mandatory safeguarding training for all team members.
• Strict Code of Conduct to ensure professional and ethical behaviour.

9. Online & Digital Safeguarding

• Children and young carers must be protected from online exploitation and abuse.
• Any digital communication must be monitored and follow strict safeguarding guidelines.
• Social media interactions must comply with our Online Safety Policy.

10. Whistleblowing Policy
We encourage anyone to report safeguarding violations without fear of retaliation. Reports can be made anonymously, and all concerns will be taken seriously.

11. Review & Monitoring
• This policy will be reviewed annually or in response to significant changes in safeguarding laws.
• Regular audits and risk assessments will ensure continuous improvement.

12. Contact Information
📧 Email: splaochcarefoundation@gmail.com
📍 Address: Sterry Road Dagenham, RM108PB
📞 Emergency Contact: +447512861322
For urgent safeguarding concerns, contact local authorities or child protection services.

By working together, we can ensure a safe, secure, and supportive environment for every child, young carer, and vulnerable family in our care.