Purpose

To protect the well-being, dignity, and safety of vulnerable individuals who engage with Respire Homes, and to ensure we meet legal and ethical obligations.
 

Scope & Definitions

• “Vulnerable persons” include children, elderly, those with disabilities or special needs, or other groups needing support.
• “Safeguarding” involves protecting individuals from abuse, neglect, harm, or exploitation.

Principles 

• The welfare of the individual is paramount.
• Everyone has the right to protection from abuse.
• We act in a timely manner and follow due process.
• Confidentiality is balanced with duty to report harm.

Responsibilities  

• All staff / volunteers must undertake training on safeguarding.
• Any concerns or disclosures must be reported to the designated Safeguarding Lead immediately.
• The Safeguarding Lead will assess, investigate, record, and follow legal reporting requirements.

Responding To Concerns 

• If someone makes a disclosure, listen, reassure, do not promise confidentiality, record what is said, and pass it on.
• Allegations about staff must be handled according to disciplinary procedures, possibly involving external authorities.

Safe Recruitment & Checks

Where relevant, carry out background checks for staff/volunteers (e.g. DBS checks).

Provide clear roles, supervision, and boundaries.

Policy Review & Training 

• Review this policy annually or after any incident.
• Provide refresher training regularly.