Safeguaurding Policy | ADHD Lancashire

Safeguarding Policy for ADHD Lancashire

ADHD Lancashire is committed to safeguarding the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. We believe that everyone has the right to be safe from harm and abuse and that safeguarding is the responsibility of all staff, volunteers, and trustees. We strive to create a safe and supportive environment where individuals feel empowered to raise concerns.

Policy Purpose

This policy outlines our commitment to safeguarding, the procedures we follow to protect individuals, and the responsibilities of those within ADHD Lancashire. It aims to provide clear guidance on responding to concerns and ensure that best practices are followed in all interactions with children and vulnerable adults.

Legal Framework

This policy is guided by UK legislation, including but not limited to:

The Children Act 1989 & 2004
The Care Act 2014
The Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006
Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018)
Keeping Children Safe in Education (2023)
The Mental Capacity Act 2005
Data Protection Act 2018 & GDPR

Who does this policy apply to

This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, trustees, contractors, and anyone working for on behalf of ADHD Lancashire. It covers all activities, events, and interactions, whether in-person or online, ensuring that safeguarding is embedded in all aspects of our work.

Responsibilities

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): Oversees all safeguarding concerns and ensures policies are implemented effectively. The DSL is responsible for maintaining safeguarding records, liaising with external agencies, and ensuring training is up to date.
Deputy Safeguarding Lead: Supports the DSL in their duties and acts as a safeguarding contact when it is unavailable.
All Staff & Volunteers Must be vigilant, report concerns, and follow safeguarding procedures. They must complete safeguarding training and understand their role in protecting individuals from harm.
Trustees: Ensure safeguarding policies are up to date and implemented effectively. Trustees must oversee risk assessments, ensure safeguarding remains a priority, and monitor compliance with legal and best practice standards.

Recognising and Reporting Concerns

Any concerns regarding abuse, neglect, or exploitation should be reported to the DSL immediately.
A deputy or trustee should be informed if the DSL is unavailable or the concern involves them.
Reports should be made in writing using the ADHD Lancashire safeguarding concern form, ensuring a clear and factual account is provided.
Emergency services should be contacted in cases of immediate danger (999).
ADHD Lancashire will take all concerns seriously, investigate appropriately, and work with relevant authorities where necessary.

Types of Abuse ADHD Lancashire recognises various forms of abuse, including but not limited to:

Physical abuse: Causing physical harm or injury.
Emotional abuse: Persistent emotional maltreatment, including threats, humiliation, and intimidation.
Sexual abuse: Forcing or enticing a child or vulnerable adult into sexual activities.
Neglect: Persistent failure to meet basic needs, leading to serious impairment of health or development.
Financial abuse: Exploiting, stealing, or misusing funds or resources from a vulnerable individual.
Discriminatory abuse: Ill-treatment based on age, disability, race, religion, gender, or other protected characteristics.
Online abuse: Cyberbullying, grooming, and exposure to harmful content.

Safer Recruitment

ADHD Lancashire follows robust recruitment procedures, including DBS checks for relevant roles.
All new staff and volunteers undergo safeguarding training as part of their induction.
References and background checks are conducted before an appointment.
Any concerns about an applicant’s suitability will be addressed in line with safer recruitment best practices.

Confidentiality & Information Sharing

Confidentiality is maintained in safeguarding cases, but information may be shared with appropriate agencies if necessary to protect individuals.
ADHD Lancashire follows GDPR regulations when handling personal data and only shares information on a need-to-know basis.
All safeguarding records are securely stored and accessed only by authorised personnel.
Staff and volunteers must understand the limits of confidentiality and report safeguarding concerns even if a child or vulnerable adult requests secrecy.

Training & Awareness

Regular safeguarding training is provided to all staff and volunteers, ensuring they understand their responsibilities.
Updates and refresher sessions ensure ongoing compliance and awareness of emerging safeguarding issues.
ADHD Lancashire promotes a culture of continuous learning, where safeguarding remains a core focus of professional development.

Review & Monitoring

This policy will be reviewed annually or when significant changes in legislation occur.
The DSL and trustees will ensure continuous improvement and compliance, regularly evaluating safeguarding procedures.
Feedback from staff, volunteers, and external agencies will be used to enhance safeguarding practices.