Book now
Login

Safeguarding Policy

Introduction 

PiCC United is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all individuals, especially children and adults at risk, who engage with our organisation. This policy outlines the key principles, responsibilities, and procedures we follow to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for everyone involved.

Scope of the Policy

This safeguarding policy applies to all individuals associated with PiCC United, including employees, volunteers, trustees, contractors, and third-party partners. It covers all forms of interaction, both in-person and digital.

Principles

    • Respect and Dignity:
      Every individual has the right to be treated with respect and dignity, regardless of background, identity or personal circumstances.
    • Zero Tolerance:
      We maintain a zero-tolerance policy toward all forms of abuse, neglect, exploitation, and discrimination.
    • Empowerment:
      We support individuals in making informed decisions and ensure their voices are central in all safeguarding matters.
    • Proportionality:
      Our safeguarding responses are always measured, appropriate, and tailored to the level of risk involved.
    • Accountability:
      We ensure clear roles, responsibilities, and ensure effective safeguarding practices.

Definitions

    • Children:
      Individuals under the age of 18.
    • Adults at Risk:
      Persons aged 18 or older who may be unable to protect themselves from harm, abuse, or exploitation due to factors such as disability, age, or other factors.
    • Abuse Types:
      Includes physical, emotional, sexual, financial, neglect, modern slavery, and discriminatory abuse.

Responsibilities

    • Board of Trustees:
      Holds overall accountability for safeguarding across all PiCC United activities.
    • Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL):
      Oversees all safeguarding matters, provides guidance and ensures compliance with all relevant laws, policies and procedures.
    • Staff and Volunteers:
      Required to complete safeguarding IT-handbook training and adhere to this safeguarding policy in all interactions and activities.
    • Third-Party Partners:
      Must maintain safeguarding practices consistent with PiCC United’s standards and principles.

Reporting Procedures

    • Recognising Concerns:
      Any signs or suspicions regarding abuse, neglect, or harm should be reported immediately.
    • Internal Reporting:
      Concerns should be reported immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Lead or their appointed deputy.
    • External Reporting:
      In cases of immediate danger or risk, contact emergency services. For non-urgent or ongoing concerns, liaise with local safeguarding authorities.
    • Confidentiality:
      Information will only be shared on a strict need-to-know basis.

Incident Handling

    • Documentation:
      All safeguarding concerns must be documented clearly and accurately, including dates, times, and actions taken.
    • Support for Reporters:
      Staff or volunteers raising concerns in good faith will be fully supported and protected from retaliation.
    • Investigation:
      All allegations will be investigated promptly and impartially.

Online and Digital Safeguarding

    • Secure Platforms:
      Use secure and trusted platforms for virtual engagements.
    • Confidentiality:
      Meetings must not be recorded without explicit informed consent by all participants.
    • Moderation:
      Implement clear ground rules that promote respectful, inclusive, and safe participation.

Record Keeping and Data Protection

    • Safeguarding records are stored securely in accordance with GDPR. (read more Privacy policy)
    • Access to safeguarding records is restricted to authorised personnel.

Whistleblowing

We strongly encourage the reporting of any safeguarding concerns, without fear of retaliation. Whistleblowers who raise concerns in good faith will be protected under our whistleblowing policy.

Review and Compliance

    • This policy is reviewed annually to ensure ongoing compliance with relevant legislation and best practices, and to maintain its effectiveness in protecting all individuals.
    • Non-compliance with this policy may result in disciplinary action.

Contact Information

    • Designated Safeguarding Lead:
      MediPaCe Ltd.

    • Emergency Services:
      Dial 112/999 for immediate danger.
    • Local Safeguarding Authority Contact:
       hello@piccunited.org

To learn more about safeguarding practices or to access MediPaCe’s Safeguarding Policy, please visit: MediPaCe Safeguarding Policy & Ethics and Compliance.