Safeguarding Policy
Introduction
OT Works is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for all individuals who engage with our services. This Safeguarding Policy outlines our commitment to protecting children, young people, and vulnerable adults from harm and abuse.
Purpose
This policy aims to:
- Ensure that OT Works complies with relevant legal frameworks, such as Working Together to Safeguard Children and the Care Act.
- Protect the well-being of children, young people, and vulnerable adults who receive our services.
- Provide clear guidelines and principles for our staff and volunteers to follow in safeguarding matters.
Definitions
- Child: A person under the age of 18.
- Vulnerable adult: A person aged 18 or over who has care and support needs and is at risk of abuse or neglect.
Safeguarding Risks
Children, young people, and vulnerable adults can be at risk of various forms of abuse, including:
- Physical abuse
- Emotional abuse
- Neglect
- Sexual abuse
- Female genital mutilation (FGM)
- Grooming and exploitation
- Trafficking and modern slavery
- Exposure to  domestic abuse
- Bullying or cyberbullying
- Exposure to inappropriate content or behavior
- Self-harm
Safeguarding Principles
OT Works is committed to the following safeguarding principles:
- Empowerment: Supporting individuals to make their own decisions and choices.
- Protection: Taking steps to prevent and respond to harm.
- Prevention: Identifying and addressing potential risks before they escalate.
- Proportionality: Using the least intrusive measures necessary to safeguard individuals.
- Partnerships: Collaborating with other agencies and professionals to ensure effective safeguarding.
- Accountability: Ensuring that all staff and volunteers are aware of their safeguarding responsibilities.
Safeguarding Responsibilities
All OT Works staff and volunteers have a responsibility to:
- Be vigilant for signs of abuse or neglect.
- Report any concerns to the designated safeguarding lead or manager.
- Follow the procedures outlined in this policy.
- Maintain confidentiality and respect for individuals’ privacy.
Safeguarding Training
OT Works will provide regular safeguarding training to all staff and volunteers to ensure they have the knowledge and skills to identify and address safeguarding concerns.
Reporting Concerns
If you have concerns about the safety or well-being of a child, young person, or vulnerable adult, please report them to the designated safeguarding lead or manager immediately.
Review and Updates
This Safeguarding Policy will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains relevant and effective.
Contact Details
- Nominated Child Protection Lead
- Name: Tonya Potter (OT Works Founder)
- Email: tonya@otworks.co.uk
- Safeguarding Children (Level 3) Trained
External Support
- NSPCC Helpline: 0808 800 5000
Policy Review
We are committed to reviewing our policy and good practice annually.
This policy was last reviewed on: 23/09/2024
Signed: Tonya Potter
Date: 23/09/2024
8. Contact Information
If you have any questions about these Policies, please contact us here.