Safeguarding Policy
Policy Reviewed: 06/04/2025
Next Review Due: 05/04/2026
Approved by: Stacey Dowdeswell, Director
Introduction
Co Labs is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all young people we work with, particularly those who are disabled and may be at increased risk of harm, abuse, or neglect. This policy outlines our commitment to creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment for all participants aged 16 to 30 years.
Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to:
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Ensure the safety and wellbeing of all young people involved in our activities.
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Promote a culture of respect, inclusion, and empowerment.
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Provide staff, volunteers, and partners with clear guidance on safeguarding responsibilities.
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Comply with relevant legislation and good practice guidance.
Scope
This policy applies to:
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All staff (permanent, temporary, freelance)
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Volunteers and trustees
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Contractors and partners
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Anyone acting on behalf of Co Labs
Key Principles
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Empowerment: Young people are supported to make their own decisions and informed choices.
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Protection: We take action to protect young people from abuse and neglect.
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Prevention: We take steps to prevent harm, abuse, and exploitation before it occurs.
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Proportionality: Our responses are appropriate to the level of risk and concern.
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Partnership: We work closely with individuals, The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, Royal Brompton & Harefield Hospitals and Teenage Cancer Trust
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Inclusion: We respect and respond to diverse needs, including communication, cultural, and access needs.
Definitions of abuse
Safeguarding concerns may include but are not limited to:
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Physical abuse
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Emotional abuse
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Sexual abuse
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Neglect
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Financial abuse
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Discriminatory abuse
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Exploitation (e.g. sexual or criminal)
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Institutional abuse
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Online abuse and cyberbullying
Recognising and responding to concerns
Staff and volunteers must:
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Be alert to signs of abuse or neglect
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Listen and respond sensitively to disclosures
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Record concerns accurately and promptly
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Report concerns immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)
Do not:
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Promise confidentiality
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Investigate the concern yourself
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Delay reporting the issue
Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)
Name: Veera Lummi
Role: Designated Safeguarding Lead
Contact: Veera.Lummi@gmail.com
The DSL is responsible for:
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Handling safeguarding concerns and referrals
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Liaising with external agencies (e.g. social services, police)
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Supporting staff with safeguarding procedures
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Maintaining safeguarding records securely
Safer Recruitment and Training
We ensure:
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All staff and volunteers are subject to enhanced DBS checks where appropriate.
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References are obtained and checked.
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All personnel receive safeguarding training on induction and regular refreshers, in alignment with the safeguarding policy and mandatory training required by Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust
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Freelancers and contractors agree to abide by this policy.
Inclusive Practice and Accessibility
We are committed to inclusive safeguarding that recognises the diverse needs of disabled young people. This includes:
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Adapting communication methods (e.g. Easy Read, BSL interpreters)
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Providing accessible venues
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Consulting with young people about their support needs
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Working in partnership with families, carers, and advocates where appropriate
Online and Digital Safety
We are committed to inclusive safeguarding that recognises the diverse needs of disabled young people. This includes:
When working online, we ensure:
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All sessions are moderated and recorded where appropriate
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Clear codes of conduct for participants and facilitators
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Consent is obtained for any recordings or sharing of content
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Secure platforms are used that comply with GDPR
Confidentiality and Data Protection
All safeguarding concerns are kept confidential and shared only on a need-to-know basis. We store safeguarding records securely in accordance with GDPR and data protection legislation.
Protocol for Reporting Concerns to the Designated Safeguarding Lead
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Recognise a Concern:
If you suspect a child’s safety is at risk—whether due to physical harm, emotional abuse, neglect, or any other form of danger—take action immediately. -
Contact the Designated Safeguarding Lead:
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Phone: Call the DSL immediately using the phone number provided by your organisation.
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Email: If calling isn’t possible, send an urgent email to the DSL at veera.lummi@gmail.com with the subject “Urgent Safeguarding Concern.”
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Include Essential Information:
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Your Details: Name and contact information (unless you wish to remain anonymous).
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Young person’s Information: Name, age, and any relevant details that help identify the child.
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The Concern: A brief but clear description of what you observed or know, including dates, times, and any context that might help assess the situation.
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Await Further Instructions:
Once you’ve reported the concern, the DSL will assess the information and decide on the next steps. You may be contacted for additional details if necessary.
Remember Your Protection:
Any report made in good faith is protected and will be handled confidentially. You are encouraged to speak up whenever there is a concern for a child’s safety.
Monitoring and Review
This policy is reviewed annually, or sooner if there is a significant change in legislation, guidance, or our services.
Signed:
Stacey Dowdeswell
Director
06/04/2025
This policy has been drawn up on the basis of legislation, policy and guidance that seeks to protect children in England.
A summary of the key legislation and guidance is available from nspcc.org.uk/childprotection
S Dowdeswell