1. Introduction GreatNEcaringhandsCIC is committed to creating a safe and nurturing environment for all children and young people: a) With Special Educational Needs (SEN), and b) With learning disabilities. Our commitment applies to our wraparound club and associated activities. This Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy outlines the processes and procedures that underpin our commitment to safeguarding the welfare of all children and young people in our care. It also establishes clear protocols for responding to concerns about their safety and wellbeing. 2. Purpose and Scope This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, and stakeholders involved with GreatNEcaringhandsCIC. This includes, but is not limited to, staff of any third parties that may be partners or affiliates of our projects. This policy aims to: •Ensure the safety and wellbeing of all children and young adults in our care •Provide guidance on identifying, reporting, and responding to safeguarding concerns •Foster a culture of vigilance and openness where concerns can be raised and addressed without fear of retribution 3. Legal Framework This policy is underpinned by relevant legislation and statutory guidance, including but not limited to: •The Children Act 1989 and 2004 •The Education Act 2002 •Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 •Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018) •Keeping Children Safe in Education (2022) 4. Safeguarding Representatives GreatNEcaringhandsCIC has designated safeguarding representatives responsible for overseeing all safeguarding concerns: •Helen Steph – Lead Safeguarding Officer •Ann Nganga – Deputy Safeguarding Officer •Mariam Ogabi – Safeguarding Officer •Abimbola Oguntade – Safeguarding Officer These representatives are trained in safeguarding procedures and are available to provide guidance and support to staff, volunteers, and parents. 5. Our Commitment to Safeguarding GreatNEcaringhandsCIC is guided by the following principles: The Best Interests of the Child We will always act in the best interests of the child, prioritising their safety and wellbeing. Empowerment We will empower children and young adults to understand their rights and to voice any concerns about their safety. Prevention We will take proactive steps to create a safe and secure environment, minimising risks to children and young adults. Partnership We will work collaboratively with parents, guardians, and external agencies to ensure the safety and welfare of those in our care. Identifying Signs of Abuse or Neglect All staff and volunteers must be aware of signs of abuse or neglect, including but not limited to: •Unexplained injuries or changes in behaviour •Fear of certain individuals or situations •Withdrawal or changes in communication •Signs of neglect, such as inadequate clothing or poor hygiene 6. Reporting Procedures Any staff member or volunteer who suspects or becomes aware of a safeguarding concern must: Rule 1 – Record the Concern Document the concern as soon as possible, noting specific incidents, dates, times, and individuals involved. An incident book shall be maintained at all times for this purpose. Rule 2 – Report the Concern Immediately report the concern to one of the designated safeguarding representatives: •Mariam Ogabi •Ann Nganga •Abimbola Oguntade •Helen Steph Where the concern is recorded by a designated safeguarding representative, all rules and guidance must be followed. Guidance 1 – Maintain Confidentiality Information should be shared only with those who need to know in order to protect the child or young adult. Guidance 2 – Responding to Concerns Upon receiving a safeguarding concern, the designated safeguarding representative must: •Conduct an initial assessment to determine the appropriate course of action •Maintain accurate and confidential records •Refer the matter to external agencies (e.g., social services or police) if necessary and in line with local safeguarding procedures 7. Training and Awareness All staff and volunteers will receive regular safeguarding training covering: •Recognising signs of abuse and neglect •Reporting procedures •Understanding the importance of safeguarding within our setting 8. Confidentiality and Information Sharing GreatNEcaringhandsCIC is committed to maintaining confidentiality regarding safeguarding concerns while recognising that information may need to be shared with relevant authorities to protect the child or young adult. 9. Review and Monitoring This policy will be reviewed annually or in response to significant changes in legislation or practice. Staff and volunteers are encouraged to provide feedback on the effectiveness of this policy. Safeguarding Contacts: •Mariam Ogabi: 07475 776076 •Ann Nganga: 07838 198897 •Helen Steph: 07577 691115 •Abimbola Oguntade: 07305 028645