Safeguarding Policy
1. Introduction
At Brilliant Brain Dyslexia Services, we are committed to ensuring the safety and protection of all children, young people, and vulnerable adults who engage with our services. We recognize our responsibility to create a safe environment where every individual is respected, and their welfare is safeguarded. This policy outlines how we protect individuals from harm and ensure their rights are upheld.
2. Policy Statement
Brilliant Brain Dyslexia Services believes that:
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The welfare of children and vulnerable adults is paramount.
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All children, regardless of age, disability, gender, racial heritage, religious belief, sexual orientation, or identity, have the right to protection from abuse.
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All concerns, allegations, or suspicions of abuse will be taken seriously and acted upon in accordance with this safeguarding policy.
We will ensure that:
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All staff are aware of their responsibilities concerning safeguarding and are fully supported in carrying them out.
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Clear procedures are in place for reporting concerns about the safety or welfare of an individual.
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Regular safeguarding training is undertaken by all staff.
3. Purpose of the Policy
The purpose of this policy is to:
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Protect children, young people, and vulnerable adults who receive our services.
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Provide staff with guidance on how to identify and respond to safeguarding issues.
4. Roles and Responsibilities
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Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): A named individual within Brilliant Brain Dyslexia Services will act as the main point of contact for safeguarding concerns. The DSL is responsible for ensuring the implementation of safeguarding policies and procedures, and for liaising with external agencies where necessary.
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All Staff: All individuals working with Brilliant Brain Dyslexia Services have a duty to uphold the safeguarding policy. This includes being vigilant, recognizing signs of abuse, and reporting concerns.
5. Recognizing Abuse
Abuse can take many forms, including:
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Physical abuse – Hitting, shaking, or causing physical harm.
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Emotional abuse – Bullying, threats, and constant criticism.
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Sexual abuse – Forcing or enticing a child or vulnerable adult to engage in sexual activities.
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Neglect – Failing to provide essential needs like food, shelter, or medical care.
Staff will be trained to recognize the signs of abuse and report any concerns to the DSL.
6. Reporting Procedures
If a safeguarding concern is identified, the following steps must be taken:
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Immediate Response – In the event of immediate danger, contact emergency services.
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Report to the DSL – Any concerns must be reported to the DSL within 24 hours.
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Record Keeping – Detailed records of concerns, including dates, times, and relevant information, must be maintained securely.
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External Reporting – The DSL will assess whether to refer the concern to external agencies such as local authorities or social services.
7. Safer Recruitment
Brilliant Brain Dyslexia Services is committed to safe recruitment practices to ensure that all staff working with children or vulnerable adults are appropriate for their roles. This includes:
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DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks for all relevant personnel.
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Obtaining professional references and verifying qualifications.
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Ensuring that all staff understand and agree to adhere to this safeguarding policy.
8. Confidentiality and Information Sharing
Brilliant Brain Dyslexia Services recognizes the importance of maintaining confidentiality in safeguarding matters. However, safeguarding concerns will always be shared with the appropriate individuals and agencies to ensure the safety of the individual at risk.
We will follow statutory guidance on sharing information to protect children and vulnerable adults, ensuring it is shared appropriately and securely.
9. Training and Awareness
We are committed to providing ongoing safeguarding training for all staff. This includes:
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Induction training for new staff.
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Regular updates and refreshers on safeguarding policies, procedures, and legislation.
Training will cover how to recognize signs of abuse, how to respond to concerns, and how to follow reporting procedures.
10. Review of Policy
This policy will be reviewed annually or in response to significant changes in legislation, guidance, or circumstances affecting the service. Feedback from staff, and service users will be considered in the review process to ensure the policy remains effective and relevant.
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Date of Last Review: 14th September 2024
Next Review Due: 13th September 2025
Signed:
Karyn Cecchini
Owner, and Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) Brilliant Brain Dyslexia Services
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