UNIPRO Showcase Camp Safeguarding Policy

1. Introduction

UNIPRO UK Limited (UNIPRO) is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare, health, and safety of all individuals, especially children, young people, and vulnerable adults. This policy outlines the procedures and practices to ensure the protection and well-being of these individuals within our care.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, contractors, and anyone working on behalf of UNIPRO.

3. Definitions

• Child: Any individual under the age of 18.
• Vulnerable Adult: Any individual aged 18 or over who is unable to take care of themselves or protect themselves from harm or exploitation.
• Abuse: A form of maltreatment which can be physical, emotional, sexual, or neglect.

4. Aims

• To create a safe and supportive environment for children, young people, and vulnerable adults.
• To ensure that all staff and volunteers are aware of their responsibilities in identifying and reporting concerns about the welfare of these individuals.
• To provide clear procedures for reporting and managing safeguarding concerns.

5. Responsibilities

5.1 Leadership

• Ensure that safeguarding policies and procedures are in place and adhered to.
• Appoint a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) responsible for overseeing the implementation of this policy.
• Ensure all staff and volunteers are trained in safeguarding procedures.

5.2 Staff and Volunteers

• Be familiar with and adhere to this safeguarding policy.
• Attend regular training on safeguarding issues
• Report any concerns about the welfare of individuals to the DSL.

5.3 Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

• Act as the first point of contact for safeguarding concerns.
• Ensure appropriate action is taken in response to any safeguarding concerns.
• Keep detailed, accurate, and secure records of concerns and referrals.
• Liaise with external agencies as necessary.

6. Procedures

6.1 Recognising Signs of Abuse

Staff and volunteers should be aware of the signs and symptoms of abuse, including but not limited to:

• Unexplained injuries or bruising
• Changes in behaviour or mood
• Fear of certain individuals or situations
• Neglect in personal hygiene or appearance

 6.2 Reporting Concerns

• Any concerns about the welfare of a child, young person, or vulnerable adult should be reported to the DSL immediately.
• In the absence of the DSL, concerns should be reported to the deputy DSL or a senior manager.

 6.3 Responding to a Disclosure

• Listen carefully and remain calm.
• Do not promise confidentiality; explain that you must report the disclosure to the DSL.
• Record the disclosure accurately and report it to the DSL immediately.

6.4 Referral to External Agencies

• The DSL will assess the concern and decide whether a referral to external agencies (e.g., social services, police) is necessary.
• The DSL will follow up on all referrals to ensure that appropriate action has been taken.

7. Confidentiality

All safeguarding concerns and records will be kept confidential and shared only with those who need to know.

• Information will be stored securely and only accessible to authorised individuals.

8. Training

• All staff and volunteers will receive mandatory safeguarding training upon joining and regular refresher training.
• The DSL will receive advanced safeguarding training to effectively manage and respond to concerns.

9. Safe Recruitment

• UNIPRO will follow safe recruitment practices, including background checks and obtaining references for all staff and volunteers who will work with children, young people, or vulnerable adults.

10. Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or when there are significant changes in legislation or best practices. Feedback from staff, volunteers, and service users will be considered in the review process.

11. Contact Information

• Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): Geraldine Jackson, info@uniprouk.com
• Deputy DSL: Simon Andrews

 Last updated August 2024

UNIPRO is dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all individuals in its care. This policy ensures that everyone associated with UNIPRO understands their role and responsibilities in protecting those at risk.