Winchester & District Young Carers Safeguarding Policy
Winchester & District Young Carers takes safeguarding very seriously. Our safeguarding policy is reviewed by trustees biannually. Safeguarding means protecting people’s right to live safely, free from abuse and neglect. It is about people and organisations working together to prevent and stop both the risks and experience of abuse or neglect, while at the same time making sure that the adult’s or child’s wellbeing is promoted including, where appropriate, having regard to their views, wishes, feelings and beliefs in deciding on any action. We are committed to practices that protect from harm regardless of a person’s age, gender, disability, racial heritage, religious belief, sexual orientation or any other characteristic as covered by the Equality Act 2010.
Our safeguarding policy, taken together with the Hampshire Multi-Agency Safeguarding Policies, represents commitment in working together to safeguard children and adults from abuse, neglect and exploitation. It clarifies the roles and responsibilities of employees, board members and volunteers in relation to developing their own awareness and skills as well as the policies and procedures that must be followed.
The Care Act 2014 establishes that safeguarding is everybody’s business. Winchester & District Young Carers recognises that we all play a key role in preventing, detecting, reporting and responding to abuse, neglect or exploitation. Our policy covers responsibility towards our clients, employees and volunteers. We work within the framework of UK law and guidance in relation to safeguarding and protection of children and vulnerable adults that covers eleven types of abuse through the legislation and guidance frameworks.
If you have any safeguarding concerns, or to receive a copy of our policy and procedures, please get in contact with our Designated Safeguarding Lead, Lisa Wheadon, or talk to one of our Deputy Safeguarding Leads on 01962 808399. Alternatively email manager@winchesteryoungcarers.org.uk. For urgent safeguarding concerns contact Hampshire County Council’ out-of-hours service on 0300 555 1373. If you think a crime has taken place call Hampshire Police Constabulary on 0845 045 45 45.