SAFEGUARDING CHILD PROTECTION AND VULNERABLE ADULTS POLICY AND PROCEDURE
Introduction - Rutledge Training Ltd. is committed to fostering a safe and inclusive environment for all participants in our programmes, including children, adults at risk, and staff members. This comprehensive Safeguarding Policy outlines our dedication to protecting the welfare of all individuals and integrates the principles of safeguarding, child protection, and the protection of adults at risk, with the inclusion of Operation Encompass.
At Rutledge Training, our Preventative Curriculum equips young people with the knowledge and skills to recognise and respond to safeguarding risks, including exploitation, bullying, and online threats. Through structured learning and open discussions, we foster resilience, informed decision-making, and a culture of safety. Working with parents, carers, and external agencies, we ensure early intervention and proactive safeguarding in a supportive learning environment.
Policy Statement
We are committed to preventing harm, abuse, neglect, and exploitation of children, adults at risk, and staff members, and to promoting their welfare and well-being. Rutledge Training Ltd. recognises the diverse needs and vulnerabilities of all individuals and is dedicated to upholding their rights to safety, dignity, and respect.
Key Principles
- Inclusivity: This policy applies to all individuals involved in our programmes, irrespective of age, gender, disability, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic;
- Proactive Measures: We will take proactive measures to identify and mitigate risks to the safety and well-being of all individuals, including education, awareness-raising, and the promotion of a culture of respect and equality;
- Support: We will provide appropriate support and assistance to individuals who disclose safeguarding concerns or who may be affected by abuse, neglect, or exploitation;
- Prevention: Prevention will be prioritised through comprehensive training, robust policies and procedures, and the promotion of safe practices.
- Accountability: All individuals, including staff members, have a responsibility to uphold this policy and report any concerns or incidents promptly.
Legal Framework
This policy is underpinned by the following Northern Ireland legislation and guidance:
- The Children (Northern Ireland) Order 1995.
- Safeguarding Board Act (Northern Ireland) 2011.
- The Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups (Northern Ireland) Order 2007.
- Adult Safeguarding: Prevention and Protection in Partnership (2015).
- Co-operating to Safeguard Children and Young People in Northern Ireland (2017).
Definitions and Potential Signs of Abuse
Definitions:
- Child Abuse: Harm or mistreatment of a child, including physical, emotional, sexual abuse, or neglect;
- Adult Abuse: Abuse of an adult at risk, including physical, emotional, sexual, financial abuse, or neglect;
- Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE): A form of sexual abuse where an individual takes advantage of an imbalance of power to exploit a child sexually;
- Domestic Violence: Physical, emotional, or psychological harm caused by an intimate partner or family member;
- Consent and Coercion: Consent must be freely given without coercion, manipulation, or pressure.
Signs and Symptoms of Abuse:
- Physical Abuse: Unexplained injuries, bruises, burns, or fractures;
- Emotional Abuse: Withdrawal, low self-esteem, or extreme behaviour changes;
- Sexual Abuse: Inappropriate sexual knowledge, fear of certain individuals, or physical discomfort;
- Neglect: Poor hygiene, malnutrition, or lack of medical care;
- CSE: Sudden behavioural changes, unexplained gifts, or frequent absences;
- Domestic Violence: Anxiety, physical injuries, or reluctance to discuss home life.
Raising Concerns
For Parents/Carers:
- Parents/carers can raise concerns about safeguarding by contacting the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) directly;
- Concerns can also be raised via by contacting DSL Tracey Eisen teisen@rutledgegroup.co.uk – Telephone: +447739869964 or one of the Designated Officers Below:
- A clear and transparent reporting process is in place to ensure all concerns are addressed promptly and effectively;
- Parents/carers will be treated with respect, and all reports will be handled with sensitivity and confidentiality;
All staff and volunteers are recruited and vetted, in line with DfE Circular FE 11/13 and relevant operational guidance documents;
All Youth service staff and volunteers are recruited and vetted in line with DE Circular 2024/10.
We have in place a Code of Conduct for all Staff and Volunteers working in Rutledge.
PROCEDURE
Introduction
This procedure provides guidance for staff on recognising, responding to, and reporting safeguarding concerns involving children, adults at risk, and staff members.
Identifying Safeguarding Concerns
- Signs of Abuse or Neglect: Staff should be vigilant for physical injuries, behavioural changes, emotional distress, or unexplained absences;
- Risk Assessment: Conduct assessments considering vulnerability, living situation, and support networks;
- Record Keeping: Document concerns accurately and confidentially;
Responding to Safeguarding Concerns
- Immediate Action: If there is immediate risk, take action to ensure safety, including contacting emergency services;
- Support: Provide reassurance and ensure the individual’s needs are met with sensitivity;
- Reporting: Report all concerns to the DSL immediately;
- Confidentiality: Information is shared only on a need-to-know basis.
Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) Responsibilities
- Assessment: Evaluate concerns promptly and determine appropriate action;
- Consultation: Engage relevant agencies like social services or police;
- Record Keeping: Maintain compliance with data protection regulations;
- Support: Provide guidance to staff involved in safeguarding cases.
Operation Encompass
- Overview: A partnership between the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland (SBNI), Education Authority, and schools to support children witnessing domestic violence;
- Process: If PSNI attends a domestic abuse incident involving children, relevant information is shared with the safeguarding team by 9 AM the following morning;
- Collaboration: Rutledge Training Ltd. collaborates with local authorities to ensure appropriate support for affected individuals.
Referral Process
- Formal Referral: If concerns meet the threshold, refer to relevant authorities;
- Follow-Up: Maintain communication with involved agencies to ensure appropriate action is taken.
Review and Monitoring
- Policy reviewed annually and updated as necessary;
- Regular monitoring and audits conducted for effectiveness.
Rutledge Training Ltd. is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all individuals in our programmes through the diligent implementation of this safeguarding policy and procedure. By fostering an inclusive and protective environment, we aim to uphold the welfare and rights of every individual we support.
Other Related Policies
- Attendance
- Behaviour Management and Discipline / Positive Behaviour
- Pastoral Care.
- Addressing Bullying
- Safe Handling.
- Special Educational Needs.
- First Aid and Administration of Medicines Health and Safety
- Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE)
- Intimate Care
- E-Safety
- Educational Visits
- Staff Code of Conduct
- Whistle blowing.
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