Safeguarding Policy
Last updated: July 2026
Safeguarding concern? Contact our Designated Safeguarding Lead immediately at [email protected]. In an emergency, always call 999.
EEP C.I.C is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults who engage with our programmes and services. We expect all staff, volunteers and partners to share this commitment.
Our commitment
EEP C.I.C believes that every child, young person and vulnerable adult has the right to be safe, to be treated with dignity and respect, and to be protected from harm. Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility within our organisation, and we take all concerns seriously.
Scope
This policy applies to all staff (paid and unpaid), volunteers, trustees, contractors and any other individuals working on behalf of EEP C.I.C. It covers all activities delivered by or in partnership with EEP C.I.C, including in-person programmes, community events and online engagement.
Designated Safeguarding Lead
EEP C.I.C has a designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) who is responsible for overseeing safeguarding practice across the organisation, ensuring all concerns are handled appropriately, and maintaining up-to-date knowledge of safeguarding legislation and guidance. Contact details for the DSL are available by emailing [email protected].
Safer recruitment
We follow safer recruitment practices for all roles involving contact with children, young people or vulnerable adults. This includes obtaining enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks, taking up references, and verifying identity and qualifications before appointment.
Training
All staff and volunteers receive safeguarding training appropriate to their role before they begin working with beneficiaries. Training is refreshed regularly and records are maintained. Our DSL undertakes advanced safeguarding training in line with statutory guidance.
Recognising and reporting concerns
All staff and volunteers are trained to recognise signs of abuse, neglect or exploitation. Any concern about the welfare of a child, young person or vulnerable adult must be reported immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Lead. Concerns will be recorded and, where appropriate, referred to the relevant local authority children's or adults' services, or to the police.
Confidentiality
Safeguarding concerns are treated with appropriate confidentiality. Information is shared on a need-to-know basis and only with those who have a legitimate role in responding to the concern. The safety and welfare of the individual always takes precedence over confidentiality.
Allegations against staff or volunteers
Any allegation that a member of staff or volunteer has harmed a child, young person or vulnerable adult, or has behaved in a way that indicates they may pose a risk, will be taken seriously and handled in accordance with statutory guidance. This may include referral to the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO).
Photography and digital safety
EEP C.I.C obtains explicit consent before photographing or filming beneficiaries, particularly children and young people. Images are used only for the purposes for which consent was given. We promote safe online behaviour and take steps to protect beneficiaries from online harm in all digital activities.
Policy review
This policy is reviewed annually and updated in line with changes to legislation, statutory guidance and best practice. The most recent version is always available on this page. Questions or concerns about safeguarding at EEP C.I.C should be directed to [email protected].