Safeguarding
Please see the safeguarding policy statement below. Should you have any questions or queries relating to safeguarding, please do not hesitate to contact Karl Turner on 01452 447024, or via email (safeguarding@glosbefriending.co.uk)
Safeguarding Policy Statement
Gloucestershire Befriending Services Ltd acknowledges the duty of care to safeguard and promote the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and is committed to ensuring safeguarding practice reflects statutory responsibilities, government guidance and complies with best practice.
The policy recognises that the welfare and interests of children, young people and vulnerable adults are paramount in all circumstances. It aims to ensure that regardless of age, gender, religion or beliefs, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or socio-economic background, all children, young people and vulnerable adults:
have a positive and enjoyable experience of befriending at Gloucestershire Befriending Services Ltd in a safe environment
are protected from abuse whilst participating in the befriending relationship or outside of the activity.
Gloucestershire Befriending Services Ltd acknowledges that some children, young people and vulnerable adults, including disabled children, young people and adults or those from ethnic minority communities, can be particularly vulnerable to abuse and we accept the responsibility to take reasonable and appropriate steps to ensure their welfare.
As part of our safeguarding policy Gloucestershire Befriending Services Ltd will:
promote and prioritise the safety and wellbeing of children, young people and vulnerable adults.
ensure everyone understands their roles and responsibilities in respect of safeguarding and is provided with appropriate learning opportunities to recognise, identify and respond to signs of abuse, neglect and other safeguarding concerns relating to children, young people and vulnerable adults
ensure appropriate action is taken in the event of incidents/concerns of abuse and support provided to the individual/s who raise or disclose the concern
ensure that confidential, detailed and accurate records of all safeguarding concerns are maintained and securely stored
prevent the employment/deployment of unsuitable individuals
ensure robust safeguarding arrangements and procedures are in operation.
The policy and procedures will be widely promoted and are mandatory for everyone involved in Gloucestershire Befriending Services Ltd. Failure to comply with the policy and procedures will be addressed without delay and may ultimately result in dismissal/exclusion from the organisation.
Monitoring
The policy will be reviewed annually, or in the following circumstances:
changes in legislation and/or government guidance
as required by the Local Safeguarding Board
as a result of any other significant change or event.