Safeguarding Policy & Procedure

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1. Introduction and Purpose

1.1 This policy sets out how Luton Community Watch (“LCW”, “we”, “our”) works to keep adults at risk of abuse or neglect and children safe from harm.

 

1.2 The purpose of this policy is to:

• prevent abuse where there is a risk it may occur

• stop abuse where it is happening

• ensure concerns are recognised, reported and responded to appropriately

• protect volunteers, staff and service users through clear procedures and responsibilities

 

1.3 LCW has a Duty of Care to all volunteers, service users and members of the public who engage with our activities. We are committed to the protection and safety of adults at risk and children, whether they are volunteers, participants or members of the community.

 

1.4 LCW recognises the rights of all individuals under the Human Rights Act 1998, the Children Act 1989, the Children Act 2004, and the statutory guidance Working Together to Safeguard Children 2023.

 

1.5 Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. Every volunteer, trustee and staff member has a role in keeping people safe and must follow this policy.

 

2. Definitions

2.1 Adults at Risk of Abuse or Neglect

For the purposes of this policy, an adult at risk is defined in accordance with Section 42(1) of the Care Act 2014 as a person aged 18 or over who:

• has care and support needs

• is experiencing, or is at risk of, abuse or neglect

• is unable to protect themselves because of their care and support needs

An individual may be an adult at risk even if they are not currently receiving care or support services.

 

2.2 Children and Young People

Children and young people are defined as individuals under 18 years old.

“Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children” (Working Together 2023) includes:

• providing help as soon as problems emerge

• protecting children from maltreatment, including online

• preventing impairment of health or development

• ensuring safe and effective care

• supporting upbringing within the family network where appropriate

• taking action to secure the best outcomes for children

This policy applies to all LCW trustees, volunteers, staff, contractors and students.

 

3. Persons Affected by This Policy

This policy applies to:

• Trustees and board members

• Volunteers

• Staff and sessional workers

• Agency workers

• Contractors

• Students or individuals on placement

Anyone acting on behalf of LCW must follow this policy.

 

4. Safeguarding Policy Statement

LCW has a zero‑tolerance approach to abuse.

4.1 LCW will take all reasonable action to protect adults at risk and children from:

• abuse

• neglect

• exploitation

• radicalisation

• mistreatment

 

4.2 LCW recognises its duties under the Care Act 2014 to protect adults at risk and is committed to promoting wellbeing, preventing harm and responding effectively to concerns.

 

4.3 The welfare of the child or adult at risk is paramount. All individuals have the right to protection from abuse.

 

4.4 LCW will work with appropriate agencies, including:

• Luton Social Care

• Bedfordshire Safeguarding Children Partnership

• Bedfordshire Safeguarding Adults Board

• Bedfordshire Police

• Other relevant statutory or voluntary organisations

to ensure concerns are reported appropriately and in line with local, national and Charity Commission requirements.

 

4.5 LCW will create an environment where volunteers and staff feel confident to raise safeguarding concerns and are supported in fulfilling their responsibilities.

 

4.6 All volunteers and staff will receive an induction that includes:

• safeguarding responsibilities

• how to recognise concerns

• how to report concerns

• the role of the Designated Safeguarding Lead

 

4.7 Appropriate safeguarding training will be provided as part of induction and refreshed as required.

 

4.8 All volunteers and staff must:

• report any suspected abuse

• follow LCW’s safeguarding procedures

• understand the process for reporting concerns, including concerns relating to radicalisation or extremism

• follow LCW’s Code of Conduct

 

4.9 Failure to maintain appropriate standards of behaviour may result in action under LCW’s procedures.

 

4.10 Volunteers and staff who come into contact with adults at risk, children or families must remain alert to signs of abuse and discuss concerns with the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).

4.11 LCW will appoint a Designated Safeguarding Lead responsible for:

• receiving and responding to safeguarding concerns

• making referrals to statutory agencies where appropriate

• maintaining safeguarding records

• supporting volunteers and staff

 

4.12 LCW will ensure safe recruitment practices, including DBS checks where appropriate.

 

4.13 A senior board‑level trustee will hold strategic responsibility for safeguarding arrangements.

 

4.14 This policy will be reviewed annually by the Board of Trustees.