Safeguarding Policy

1. Introduction

We Hold A Hand is committed to ensuring the safety, well-being, and protection of all individuals we work with, including service users, staff, volunteers, and partners. Our safeguarding policy outlines the measures we take to create a safe and supportive environment, prevent harm, and respond effectively to any concerns.

2. Purpose

This policy aims to:

• Protect individuals, particularly vulnerable adults and young people, from harm, abuse, and exploitation.
• Provide clear guidelines for staff, volunteers, and stakeholders on safeguarding responsibilities.
• Establish reporting procedures for concerns or incidents.

3. Scope

This policy applies to all individuals involved with We Hold A Hand, including:

• Staff and volunteers
• Therapists, interns, and freelancers listed in our directory
• Partners, sponsors, and contractors
• Service users and participants in our programs

4. Safeguarding Principles

We are guided by the following safeguarding principles:

• Zero tolerance for abuse, neglect, or harm.
• A proactive approach to identifying and addressing safeguarding risks.
• Empowerment of individuals to speak out and seek support.
• Confidentiality and sensitivity in handling safeguarding matters.

5. Types of Abuse

Abuse can take many forms, including but not limited to:

• Physical abuse (e.g., hitting, restraint, inappropriate physical contact)
• Emotional abuse (e.g., bullying, coercion, intimidation)
• Sexual abuse (e.g., harassment, exploitation, non-consensual acts)
• Neglect (e.g., failure to provide necessary care and support)
• Financial abuse (e.g., coercion to give money, fraud, exploitation)

6. Responsibilities

• Staff and Volunteers: Must complete safeguarding training and report concerns immediately.
• Therapists, Interns, and Freelancers: Expected to adhere to professional ethical standards and report any safeguarding concerns.
• Leadership Team: Responsible for overseeing safeguarding measures, reviewing policies, and ensuring compliance.

7. Reporting Concerns

If anyone has concerns about safeguarding, they must:

1. Report immediately to the designated safeguarding officer.
2. Provide relevant details while maintaining confidentiality.
3. Cooperate with investigations and follow-up actions.

8. Responding to Incidents

• All reported incidents will be taken seriously and investigated promptly.
• If immediate danger is present, emergency services should be contacted.
• Support will be provided to victims, and appropriate action will be taken against perpetrators.

9. Confidentiality and Data Protection

• All safeguarding concerns will be handled with the highest level of confidentiality.
• Information will only be shared on a need-to-know basis in line with legal requirements.
• We comply with data protection laws to protect personal information.

10. Review and Compliance

• This policy will be reviewed annually or in response to significant changes.
• Non-compliance with safeguarding policies may result in disciplinary action or removal from the organization.

11. Contact Information

For safeguarding concerns or further information, please contact:

Mercy Ayeni
Email Address: enquiry@weholdahand.com