Safeguarding Policy
We are committed to creating a safe environment for all young people and vulnerable adults in our programmes.
🚨 Report a Concern
If you have immediate concerns about a young person's safety, contact emergency services on 999.
1. Our Commitment
The Leiston Surgery Education Foundation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. We believe that everyone has the right to be protected from harm and abuse, and we take this responsibility seriously in all our activities and programmes.
Our Safeguarding Principles
- • The welfare of children and vulnerable adults is paramount
- • All people have the right to protection from abuse
- • Everyone has a responsibility to report concerns
- • We work in partnership with statutory agencies
- • We promote a culture of safety and respect
2. Scope and Application
This policy applies to:
- All trustees, staff, volunteers, and contractors
- All programme participants and beneficiaries
- All activities and events organized by the foundation
- Online interactions and digital communications
- Work experience placements and mentoring relationships
3. Definitions
Child/Young Person
Anyone under the age of 18 years. This includes all students in our programmes, regardless of their legal status or circumstances.
Vulnerable Adult
A person aged 18 or over who may be unable to protect themselves from harm or exploitation due to disability, mental health, or other circumstances.
Types of Abuse
Physical Abuse
Hitting, shaking, throwing, burning, or other forms of physical harm
Emotional Abuse
Persistent emotional maltreatment causing severe adverse effects
Sexual Abuse
Forcing or enticing participation in sexual activities
Neglect
Persistent failure to meet basic physical and psychological needs
4. Roles and Responsibilities
Designated Safeguarding Officer
Sarah Mitchell, Chair of Trustees
- • Overall responsibility for safeguarding policy and procedures
- • First point of contact for safeguarding concerns
- • Liaison with statutory agencies and external partners
- • Training coordination and policy updates
All Staff and Volunteers
- • Duty to report any safeguarding concerns immediately
- • Maintain appropriate boundaries with beneficiaries
- • Complete mandatory safeguarding training
- • Follow safe working practices at all times
Board of Trustees
- • Strategic oversight of safeguarding arrangements
- • Ensure adequate resources for safeguarding
- • Regular review of policies and procedures
- • Monitor safeguarding training compliance
5. Safe Recruitment
Pre-Employment Checks
- • Enhanced DBS checks for all roles
- • Identity verification
- • Right to work checks
- • Professional qualifications verification
- • Two professional references
- • Employment history verification
- • Safeguarding interview questions
- • Probationary period monitoring
6. Safe Working Practices
Communication Guidelines
- • Use official channels for all communication
- • No personal social media contact
- • Group communications where possible
- • Record all significant interactions
- • Professional language and tone
Physical Contact
- • Minimal and appropriate contact only
- • Always in public or observed settings
- • Respect personal boundaries
- • Consider cultural sensitivities
- • Document any incidents
7. Recognizing Abuse
Warning Signs
Physical Signs
- • Unexplained injuries
- • Poor hygiene
- • Inappropriate clothing
- • Frequent hunger
Behavioral Signs
- • Withdrawal or aggression
- • Fear of specific people
- • Regression in behavior
- • Inappropriate sexual knowledge
Emotional Signs
- • Low self-esteem
- • Depression or anxiety
- • Self-harm behaviors
- • Eating disorders
8. Reporting Procedures
Step-by-Step Reporting Process
- 1. Immediate Safety: Ensure the person is safe and seek medical attention if needed
- 2. Document: Record what you observed, heard, or were told (use exact words)
- 3. Report: Contact the Designated Safeguarding Officer immediately
- 4. Follow-up: Cooperate with any investigation or assessment
- 5. Support: Provide ongoing support to the individual as appropriate
Internal Contacts
Safeguarding Officer:
Sarah Mitchell
01728 830524
[email protected]
Deputy:
Emma Richardson
01728 830524
External Contacts
Suffolk Children's Services:
0808 800 4005
Suffolk Adult Services:
0808 800 4005
Police (non-emergency):
101
Emergency Services:
999
9. Training and Awareness
| Role | Training Required | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| All Staff & Volunteers | Basic Safeguarding Awareness | Annual |
| Safeguarding Officer | Advanced Safeguarding Training | Every 2 years |
| Trustees | Safeguarding for Trustees | Every 3 years |
| Mentors | Mentoring & Safeguarding | Before starting + annual refresh |
10. Digital Safeguarding
Online Safety Guidelines
- • Use secure, monitored communication platforms
- • No sharing of personal contact information
- • Report inappropriate online behavior immediately
- • Educate young people about online risks
- • Regular review of digital policies and procedures
11. Policy Review
This policy is reviewed annually by the Board of Trustees and updated as necessary to reflect changes in legislation, best practice, or organizational structure. All staff and volunteers are notified of any changes and receive updated training as required.
Policy Information
Policy Owner: Board of Trustees
Approved by: Sarah Mitchell, Chair
Last Updated: January 2024
Next Review: January 2025
Version: 2.0
Related Policies: Privacy, Recruitment, Code of Conduct