Safeguarding Policy

Effective Date: [Insert Date]
Last Updated: [Insert Date]
Next Review Date: [Insert Date]

1. Policy Statement

FRSH FUTURES CiC is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults.

We believe that everyone has the right to feel safe, respected, and protected from harm; safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility; early intervention and proactive support are essential; and the best interests of the individual must always come first.

We operate a zero-tolerance approach to abuse, neglect, exploitation, and harm in all forms.

2. Purpose of This Policy

This policy outlines how FRSH FUTURES CiC will protect children, young people, and vulnerable adults; identify and respond to safeguarding concerns; promote a safe and inclusive environment; and ensure all staff, volunteers, and partners understand their responsibilities.

3. Scope

This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, directors, contractors, partner organisations and service providers, and anyone representing or working on behalf of FRSH FUTURES CiC. It covers in-person programmes, community outreach, online and digital engagement.

4. Legal and Regulatory Framework

This policy is informed by UK legislation and guidance including the Children Act 1989 and 2004, Working Together to Safeguard Children, the Care Act 2014, the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006, the Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR.

5. Definitions

Child / Young Person

Anyone under the age of 18.

Adult at Risk

An individual aged 18 or over who may be at risk of abuse or neglect and has care and support needs.

6. Types of Abuse

• Physical abuse
• Emotional or psychological abuse
• Sexual abuse
• Neglect
• Financial abuse
• Discriminatory abuse
• Online abuse
• Modern slavery and exploitation

7. Safeguarding Principles

Our safeguarding approach is built on prevention, protection, partnership, accountability and empowerment.

8. Roles and Responsibilities

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

FRSH FUTURES CiC will appoint a DSL responsible for managing safeguarding concerns, acting as the main point of contact, liaising with external agencies and ensuring staff are trained and supported.

DSL Contact: [Insert Name, Email, Phone Number]

All Staff and Volunteers

All individuals must be vigilant to signs of abuse or neglect, report concerns immediately, maintain professional boundaries and follow safeguarding procedures at all times.

9. Safer Recruitment

FRSH FUTURES CiC is committed to safe recruitment practices, including appropriate DBS checks where required, verification of identity and references, clear role descriptions and expectations, and safeguarding training as part of induction.

10. Code of Conduct

All staff and volunteers must treat all individuals with dignity and respect, avoid inappropriate relationships or behaviour, never engage in abusive, exploitative or discriminatory conduct, maintain appropriate boundaries, and use appropriate communication channels, especially online.

11. Recognising Safeguarding Concerns

Indicators may include sudden changes in behaviour, unexplained injuries, signs of fear, anxiety or withdrawal, disclosure of harm or distress, online risks or concerning digital behaviour. All concerns must be taken seriously.

12. Reporting Procedures

Step 1: Immediate Action

Ensure the individual is safe. Call emergency services if there is immediate danger.

Step 2: Report Internally

Report the concern to the Designated Safeguarding Lead immediately.

Step 3: Record

Accurately document what was observed or disclosed, dates, times, details and actions taken.

Step 4: External Referral

The DSL will determine whether to refer to local safeguarding authorities, police or social services.

13. Confidentiality and Information Sharing

We respect confidentiality but recognise that safeguarding concerns must be shared when necessary. Information will only be shared on a need-to-know basis, in accordance with data protection law and safeguarding requirements, with the safety of the individual prioritised.

14. Online Safety

FRSH FUTURES CiC recognises the importance of safeguarding in digital environments. We will use secure platforms, promote safe online practice and respond to cyberbullying, grooming or exploitation concerns.

15. Working with Partners

We expect all partners to share our commitment to safeguarding, maintain appropriate safeguarding procedures and report concerns in line with agreed arrangements.

16. Whistleblowing

We encourage a culture of openness. Staff and volunteers can raise concerns about poor practice, unsafe behaviour or safeguarding failures without fear of retaliation.

17. Training and Awareness

FRSH FUTURES CiC will ensure staff and volunteers receive appropriate safeguarding training, updates and refresher sessions.

18. Monitoring and Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner where required and updated in line with legal, regulatory or organisational change.

19. Contact Information

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL):
[Insert Name]
[Insert Email Address]
[Insert Phone Number]

If someone is in immediate danger, contact the emergency services.