Safeguarding Policy 

Organization Name: Bridges for Change CIC 

Policy Created On: 18th May 2025 

Review Date: 17th May 2026 

This policy outlines the commitment of Bridges for Change CIC to safeguard and protect the welfare of all children, young people, and vulnerable adults who engage with our services or activities. It applies to all staff, volunteers, directors, contractors, and anyone working on behalf of the organisation 

2. Legal Framework 

This policy is based on and complies with relevant legislation and guidance, including: 

• Children Act 1989 and 2004 

• Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018)

• Care Act 2014 

• Keeping Children Safe in Education 

 3. Definitions 

• Safeguarding: Protecting children and vulnerable adults from abuse, neglect, exploitation, and harm. 

• Child: Anyone under the age of 18. 

• Vulnerable Adult: A person aged 18 or over who may need care or support due to age, illness, disability, or mental health and may be unable to protect themselves from harm. 

4. Commitment 

Bridges for Change CIC is committed to: 

• Providing a safe environment for children and vulnerable adults. 

• Identifying and responding to concerns about abuse and neglect. 

• Ensuring all staff and volunteers understand their safeguarding responsibilities. 

• Promoting the welfare and best interests of the individuals we work with. 

5. Types of Abuse 

Staff and volunteers and directors should be aware of the following types of abuse: 

• Physical 

• Emotional 

• Sexual 

• Neglect 

• Financial or material (in relation to vulnerable adults) 

• Discriminatory 

• Institutional 

• Domestic abuse 

• Online abuse 

6. Roles and Responsibilities 

• Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): Kylie Robins 

director1@bridgesforchange.com 

        o Main point of contact for safeguarding concerns. 

        o Ensures safeguarding procedures are followed and documented. 

• All Staff and Volunteers: 

       o Must complete safeguarding training. 

       o Must report any concerns to the DSL immediately. 

7. Reporting Concerns 

All concerns or disclosures should be reported to the DSL as soon as possible. If someone is in immediate danger, contact emergency services (999/112). 

Reporting Process: 

1. Record the details factually and clearly. 

2. Report the concern to the DSL. 

3. The DSL will assess and, if necessary, report to external safeguarding authorities. 

8. Safer Recruitment 

We are committed to safer recruitment practices: 

• Background checks (e.g., DBS/CRB) 

• Verification of qualifications and references 

• Induction and safeguarding training 

9. Training and Support 

• All staff and volunteers must complete safeguarding training upon induction or as soon as is practically possible and must undertake refresher courses at least every 3 years. 

• The organisation will provide ongoing support and supervision related to safeguarding responsibilities. 

10. Confidentiality and Data Protection 

All information about safeguarding concerns is kept confidential and shared only on a need-to-know basis in line with GDPR and data protection laws. 

11. Whistleblowing 

Staff and volunteers are encouraged to raise concerns about poor practice or suspected abuse. The organisation will support whistleblowers and investigate all concerns appropriately. 

This policy will be reviewed annually or following significant incidents, changes in legislation, or best practice guidance. 

Signed: Sandy Lawrence  - Director with Significant Control 

18th May 2025