1. Introduction
Seeway Trust is fully committed to the safety and wellbeing of all children and vulnerable adults connected to our work. This policy outlines our approach to safeguarding and the procedures we follow to prevent and respond to concerns.
2. Purpose
To provide clear guidance for all trustees, staff, volunteers, and partners on the prevention of harm and the appropriate response to safeguarding concerns.
3. Definitions
- Safeguarding: protecting children and vulnerable adults from harm, abuse, and exploitation.
- Child: any person under the age of 18.
- Vulnerable adult: a person aged 18 or over who may be unable to protect themselves from harm due to disability, illness, or other circumstances.
4. Responsibilities
All trustees, staff, volunteers, and partners must:
- Prioritise the safety and welfare of children and vulnerable adults.
- Report any safeguarding concerns immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Lead.
- Follow this policy and any associated guidance at all times.
- Participate in safeguarding training as required.
5. Designated Safeguarding Lead
Sally Bainborough
Sally is responsible for receiving and managing all safeguarding concerns, ensuring appropriate action is taken, and liaising with statutory authorities where necessary.
6. Reporting concerns
Any person who has a safeguarding concern must report it immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Lead. Reports can be made via:
- Phone: contact Sally Bainborough directly.
In an emergency, contact the relevant emergency services immediately (999).
7. Confidentiality
Safeguarding information is shared on a strict need-to-know basis. All records are stored securely and in compliance with data protection legislation.
8. Safer recruitment
All individuals working directly with children or vulnerable adults on behalf of Seeway Trust will undergo DBS checks where appropriate and provide references.
9. Training
All trustees, staff, and volunteers receive regular safeguarding training appropriate to their role. Training is updated at least annually.
10. Review
This policy is reviewed annually by the Board of Trustees. The next review is scheduled for April 2027.
Contact
Seeway Trust
Ford House, Chawleigh, Chulmleigh, Devon EX18 7JY
General: contact@seewaytrust.org