Safeguarding Policy for Disabled Students UK CIC


Policy Approved By: Abi Moffat
Date Approved:14/01/25
Next Review Date:14/06/25

Introduction

Disabled Students UK CIC is dedicated to safeguarding adults and young people at risk by creating a safe environment in accordance with the Care Act 2014, the Children Act 1989 and 2004, and other relevant legislation. We ensure all staff, volunteers, and associated individuals are aware of their responsibilities to protect individuals from harm.

While DSUK does not work directly with young people this policy includes any young people that might come into contact with DSUK, aswell as all others.

We recognise that safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility, and this policy provides guidelines for preventing, identifying, and addressing concerns.

Policy Statement

We believe every individual has the right to live free from abuse, neglect, and exploitation, irrespective of age, disability, race, religion, gender identity, or sexual orientation. Disabled Students UK CIC commits to:

  • Promoting the welfare and safety of all individuals.
  • Upholding a zero-tolerance approach to abuse and harm.
  • Respecting the dignity, rights, and wishes of all individuals.
  • Providing robust safeguarding policies, training, and practices.

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that all staff, volunteers, and associated individuals:

  • Understand their roles and responsibilities in safeguarding adults and young people at risk.
  • Can identify and report safeguarding concerns effectively.
  • Uphold a culture of accountability, prevention, and support.

Scope

This policy applies to:

  • Staff, directors, volunteers, contractors, and sessional workers.
  • All individuals participating in or impacted by our services and activities.
  • Our partner organisations, including affiliated institutions and sponsors.

Principles

We adhere to the following safeguarding principles:

  1. Empowerment: Supporting individuals to make decisions and give informed consent.
  2. Prevention: Taking proactive steps to reduce risks of harm.
  3. Proportionality: Responding appropriately and minimally intrusively.
  4. Protection: Supporting individuals most at risk.
  5. Partnership: Working collaboratively with local authorities and relevant organisations.
  6. Accountability: Maintaining transparency and ensuring continuous improvement.

Definitions

  • Adult at Risk: An individual aged 18 or older who needs care and support and is unable to protect themselves from harm due to those needs.
  • Child: Anyone under the age of 18 years.
  • Abuse: A violation of an individual’s rights through harm, neglect, or exploitation.

Roles and Responsibilities

Trustees

  • Ensure appropriate safeguarding structures and resources are in place.
  • Monitor compliance and policy implementation.

Chief Executive

  • Accountable for safeguarding across the organisation.
  • Promote a culture of safety and well-being.

Safeguarding Lead

  • Manage safeguarding policies and procedures.
  • Act as a central contact for safeguarding concerns.
  • Liaise with external agencies and ensure staff training.

Staff, Contractors and Volunteers

  • Adhere to safeguarding policies and attend required training.
  • Identify and report safeguarding concerns promptly.

Procedures

Identifying Concerns

Indicators of abuse or neglect may include:

  • Unexplained injuries or deteriorating physical appearance.
  • Changes in behaviour or confidence.
  • Financial exploitation or loss of personal belongings.
  • Disclosures of harm or fear of specific individuals.

Responding to Concerns

  1. Act Immediately: If an individual is in immediate danger, contact emergency services (999).
  2. Report Concerns: Notify the Safeguarding Lead or designated officer within the organisation.
  3. Record Details: Document observations, disclosures, and actions taken using the Incident Reporting Form.
  4. Confidentiality: Share information only with individuals involved in safeguarding processes.

Escalation

Where a safeguarding concern requires external involvement:

  • Contact the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) or Adult Safeguarding Board.
  • Liaise with the police if a crime has been committed.

Training and Awareness

All staff and volunteers must:

  • Have an understanding of safeguarding and responsibilities.
  • Be aware of the organisation’s safeguarding policies and reporting procedures.

Information Sharing and Record Keeping

  • Records of safeguarding concerns must be factual, detailed, and securely stored.
  • Information must only be shared on a need-to-know basis, respecting data protection laws.
  • Decisions to share or withhold information must be documented with reasons.

Safe Recruitment

  • All staff and volunteers working with individuals at risk will undergo DBS checks.
  • Recruitment processes will include safeguarding interviews and reference checks.

Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed biennially or in response to:

  • Changes in legislation or government guidance.
  • Serious incidents or organisational restructuring.

Approved By: Abi Moffat
Review Date: 14/01/2025

Contact Information
Lead Safeguarding Officer: Abi Moffat, COO, abi@disabledstudents.co.uk
Emergency Contact: 999