Safeguarding Policy: Coaching & Mentoring for Neurodiversity

Policy Objectives

• Safety and Well-being: To ensure the safety and well-being of all participants.

• Culture of Vigilance: To create a culture of vigilance and respect within our community.

• Clear Guidelines: To provide clear guidelines for recognising, responding to, and reporting safeguarding concerns.

Scope

This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, and students associated with the ADHD Foundation's Coaching & Mentoring for Neurodiversity Courses. It covers all activities and interactions, whether conducted in person, online, or via other communication channels.

Roles and Responsibilities

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): The DSL is responsible for overseeing safeguarding procedures, providing guidance, and ensuring that concerns are addressed appropriately. The DSL acts as the first point of contact for any safeguarding issues and coordinates with external agencies as needed.

Staff and Volunteers: All staff, volunteers and students must be aware of and adhere to this policy, participate in regular safeguarding training, and report any concerns to the DSL promptly.

Students: Students are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that promotes a safe and respectful environment. They should report any concerns to the DSL or another trusted member of the team.

Recognising Safeguarding Concerns

Types of Abuse: Physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Each type can manifest in different ways, and it is essential to recognise the signs.

Signs and Symptoms: Unexplained injuries, changes in behaviour, signs of fear or distress, inappropriate relationships, and indicators of neglect. Staff, volunteers, and students should be trained to recognise these signs and know how to respond appropriately, and ensure their training is kept up to date.

Reporting and Responding to Concerns

Immediate Action: If you believe someone is in immediate danger, contact emergency services immediately. Ensure the individual's safety while waiting for help.

Reporting: Report any concerns to one of our Designated Safeguarding Lead’s as soon as possible. You can contact either Julia Hardman or Tracy Bowyer via:

Julia Hardman email: [email protected]

Mobile: 0780 9342 597

Tracy Bowyer email: [email protected]

Mobile: 0780 2867 275

Please document the concern accurately and confidentially. The DSL will assess the concern, take appropriate action, and, if necessary, refer the matter to external agencies (e.g., social services, police, or similar as appropriate). The DSL will also provide support to the individual concerned and keep them informed of any actions taken.

Confidentiality and Data Protection

Confidentiality: Safeguarding concerns will be handled with the utmost confidentiality.

Information will only be shared on a need-to-know basis to protect the individual involved and ensure their safety.

Data Protection: Personal data collected in relation to safeguarding concerns will be processed in accordance with relevant data protection laws and policies. We will ensure that all information is stored securely and only accessible to authorised staff.

Training and Support

Training: All our staff and volunteers receive regular safeguarding training to ensure they are equipped to recognise and respond to concerns effectively. Training will cover the latest safeguarding practices, legal requirements, and organisational procedures, and all staff must ensure their training is kept up to date and in line with industry standards.

Support: We are committed to providing support to individuals affected by safeguarding concerns, including access to counselling and other resources. We also offer support to staff, and volunteers involved in handling safeguarding issues to ensure their continued well-being.

Monitoring and Review

Policy Review: This policy will be reviewed annually or in response to significant changes in legislation or practice. We will update the policy to reflect any new safeguarding developments and ensure it remains effective.

Continuous Improvement: We will seek feedback from staff, volunteers, and students to continuously improve our safeguarding practices. Regular audits and evaluations will be conducted to identify areas for improvement and ensure compliance with safeguarding standards.

Code of Conduct

Behavioural Expectations: All participants must adhere to a code of conduct that promotes respect, safety, and inclusivity. Any form of bullying, harassment, or discrimination is strictly prohibited.

Online Conduct: When participating in online activities, staff and students must follow the same behavioural expectations as in-person interactions. This includes respectful communication, appropriate use of technology, and maintaining confidentiality.

Incident Reporting: Any breaches of the code of conduct must be reported to the DSL.

Disciplinary actions may be taken, including warnings, suspension from the course, or other appropriate measures.

Additional Safeguarding Measures

Risk Assessments: The Foundation will conduct regular risk assessments to identify potential safeguarding risks and implement appropriate measures to mitigate them.

Partnerships: The ADHD Foundation may collaborate with external agencies and organisations to enhance our safeguarding efforts and provide comprehensive, up to date support to participants of our services.

Safe Recruitment: The ADHD Foundation will implement robust recruitment procedures to ensure all staff and volunteers are suitable for working with vulnerable individuals. This includes background checks and safeguarding training.

Contact Information

For any questions or concerns regarding this Safeguarding Policy, please contact one of our Designated Safeguarding Leads: Julia Hardman or Tracey Bowyer.

Julia Hardman email: [email protected]

Mobile: 0780 9342 597

Tracy Bowyer email: [email protected]

Mobile: 0780 2867 275

We are committed to addressing any issues promptly and transparently. Thank you for your time and consideration on the above safeguarding matters.