Last Updated: May 2024

1. Introduction

At Just Discuss, the safety and well-being of your child is our top priority. This safeguarding policy outlines how we protect children from harm and ensure their well-being while they are at our centre.

2. Definitions

2.1 “Safeguarding” refers to the measures we take to protect the health, well-being, and human rights of children, ensuring they live free from abuse, harm, and neglect.
2.2 “Child” or “Children” refers to any person under the age of 18.
2.3 “Staff” refers to any person employed by or volunteering with Just Discuss.

3. Policy Aims

3.1 To ensure the safety and well-being of all children participating in our services.
3.2 To provide staff with guidance on recognizing and responding to safeguarding concerns.
3.3 To outline the procedures for reporting and managing safeguarding issues.

4. Roles and Responsibilities

4.1 Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL):

• Our DSL oversees the implementation of the safeguarding policy and procedures.
• The DSL ensures all staff are trained and aware of their safeguarding responsibilities.
• The DSL handles any safeguarding concerns or incidents.

4.2 Staff:

• All staff members are responsible for the safety and well-being of the children in their care.
• Staff complete safeguarding training and understand the procedures for reporting concerns.
• Staff are vigilant and report any signs of abuse or neglect.

5. Types of Abuse

We protect children from the following types of abuse:

• Physical Abuse: Inflicting physical harm upon a child.
• Emotional Abuse: Actions that harm a child’s emotional development or self-worth.
• Sexual Abuse: Involving a child in sexual activities, whether or not the child is aware of what is happening.
• Neglect: Failure to meet a child’s basic needs, such as providing adequate food, clothing, or medical care.

6. Recognizing Signs of Abuse

Our staff are trained to recognize potential indicators of abuse, including:

• Unexplained injuries or bruises
• Changes in behavior or mood
• Fear of certain individuals or situations
• Poor hygiene or inappropriate clothing
• Reluctance to go home

7. Reporting Procedures

7.1 If a staff member suspects abuse or neglect, they report their concerns to the DSL immediately.
7.2 The DSL assesses the information and takes appropriate action, which may include:

• Discussing the concern with the child and/or their parents/guardians.
• Referring the case to local child protection authorities. 7.3 All reports and actions taken are documented and kept confidential.

8. Responding to Disclosures

If a child discloses abuse or neglect, our staff will:

• Listen carefully and remain calm.
• Avoid asking leading questions or making assumptions.
• Reassure the child that they have done the right thing by telling someone.
• Inform the child that the information will be shared with the DSL.
• Report the disclosure to the DSL immediately.

9. Confidentiality

9.1 All safeguarding concerns and disclosures are treated with the utmost confidentiality.
9.2 Information is only shared with those who need to know to protect the child.

10. Training

10.1 All staff receive safeguarding training during their induction and regular updates thereafter.
10.2 The DSL undergoes advanced safeguarding training to ensure they are equipped to manage and respond to safeguarding issues.

11. How We Apply This Policy at Our Centre

11.1 Staff Training and Vigilance:

• All our staff members undergo rigorous safeguarding training to identify and address potential issues promptly.
• Staff remain vigilant at all times, ensuring the safety and well-being of the children.

11.2 Creating a Safe Environment:

• Our facilities are designed to provide a secure and nurturing environment.
• We maintain high standards of cleanliness and safety to ensure children are always protected.

11.3 Open Communication:

• We encourage open communication between staff, children, and parents.
• Parents are welcome to discuss any concerns or questions with our DSL at any time.

11.4 Regular Reviews:

• We regularly review and update our safeguarding policy to align with best practices and legal requirements.
• Feedback from staff, parents, and children is considered in the review process.

12. Contact Information

If you have any concerns about the safety or well-being of your child, please contact our Designated Safeguarding Lead:

Designated Safeguarding Lead
Just Discuss
info@just-discuss.co.uk

02034881957