See something, say something - let’s work together to keep each other safe.
Ensuring the safety and well-being of children, young people, and adults at risk of harm and/or in need of protection is at the heart of everything we do.
If you see something that doesn’t feel right, hear something that raises concern, or notice someone who may be at risk, we encourage you to speak up. Taking action - even when you are unsure, could make a vital difference to someone’s safety.
The 4 R's of Safeguarding
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Recognise the signs of harm, neglect, or abuse.
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Respond appropriately and without delay.
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Report concerns through the correct channels.
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Reflect on our safeguarding responsibilities in daily decisions and interactions.
What to do if you have a Safeguarding Concern
If you have a safeguarding concern, please contact:
If you think a person is in immediate danger phone the police immediately via 999.
All concerns are taken seriously, and you do not need to be certain that abuse or neglect is occurring before making a report.
By working together, we can build a safer community for everyone. Safeguarding is not just a policy - it’s a fundamental responsibility that each of us shares.
Our Safeguarding Policies
As part of our commitment to put all children and adults who may be at risk at the centre of what we do and protect them from harm the Council has developed polices for the safeguarding of Adults, Children and Young People.
Our policies recognise the Council’s responsibilities to promote the welfare of children, young people and adults by making a commitment to prevent harm, abuse or exploitation and to protect the well-being of all individuals as far as reasonably practicable. The Council is committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment for all service users.
These Safeguarding Policies apply to all employees, casual staff, work placement students, sports and fitness coaches, elected members, agency workers, arts facilitators, children’s entertainers, volunteers, contractors, grant aided organisations, sports clubs and those who utilise Council facilities irrespective of their function, remit or role.
These Policies include:
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Relevant Safeguarding Code of Behaviour for all staff.
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Relevant safeguarding training for staff with regular safeguarding training updates.
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Safe Recruitment and Selection Procedures – including those jobs which are required to undertake “regulated activity” with children and/or adults.
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Clear safeguarding reporting/escalation procedures.
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The formation of an inter-departmental Safeguarding Working Group to support the effective implementation and development of Council’s Safeguarding Policies, Procedures and Practices.
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An expanded team of Council’s Designated Safeguarding Officers and key personnel, to provide safeguarding support, respond appropriately to safeguarding queries ,concerns and incidents, supported by a Lead Designated Safeguarding Officer and Council’s Safeguarding Champion.
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Continued partnership and co-operative working with relevant bodies and community organisations.
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Formal management assessment and review of safeguarding risks.
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Commitment to work continuously to improve safeguarding, to inspire confidence in service users, staff and the public.
Support Services:
Children and Young People - If you wish to talk about a problem that you are facing or danger, or if you need support, you can contact NSPCC’s Childline free of charge. Call 0800 1111, the service is available 24 hours per day, 7 days a week.
If you are an adult and are concerned about a child/young person you can contact NSPCC Helpline (Monday - Friday, 10am - 4pm). Call 0808 800 5000 or email: help@NSPCC.org.uk.