Purpose of This Policy
Safeguarding is about protecting children, young people, and adults at risk from harm, abuse, neglect, or exploitation. This policy sets out how BUDS prevents harm, responds to concerns, and creates a safe environment for everyone involved in our work.
Who This Policy Applies To
- Trustees
- Volunteers
- Contractors and partners
- Anyone representing the charity in any capacity — everyone has a responsibility to act if they witness or suspect harm.
BUDS is committed to
- Promoting the welfare, rights, and dignity of all people we support
- Creating safe spaces where concerns can be raised without fear
- Responding quickly, proportionately, and transparently to safeguarding issues
- Working with statutory agencies when required
- Ensuring all Trustees and volunteers understand their safeguarding responsibilities
Definitions
Children
Anyone under 18 years old.
Adults at Risk
An adult who may be unable to protect themselves due to age, disability, illness, or circumstances.
Types of Abuse
Physical, Emotional/psychological, Sexual, Neglect, Financial, Discriminatory, Organisational abuse, Online abuse.
Roles and Responsibilities
Trustees
- Hold ultimate accountability for safeguarding
- Ensure policies are up to date and implemented
- Maintains records and liaises with external agencies
Trustees and Volunteers
- Report concerns immediately
- Follow procedures
- Attend required training
Recognising Signs of Abuse
Trustees and volunteers should be alert to: unexplained injuries, sudden changes in behaviour, withdrawal or fearfulness, poor hygiene or malnutrition, financial irregularities, and disclosures of harm. No concern is too small to report.
Reporting a Concern
If you believe someone is at risk:
- Act immediately if someone is in danger — call emergency services.
- Record the concern factually and promptly.
- Do not investigate yourself — your role is to report, not to determine what happened.
Confidentiality and Information Sharing
- Information is shared only on a need-to-know basis.
- Safeguarding concerns override confidentiality when someone is at risk.
- Records are stored securely and in line with data protection law.
Managing Allegations Against Trustees or Volunteers
- The DSL informs the trustees immediately
- The charity follows statutory guidance
- The individual may be suspended while enquiries take place
- External agencies are contacted where required
Online Safety
- Safe use of digital platforms
- Clear boundaries for online communication
- Protection of personal data
- Monitoring of online risks
Working with Partners
- Have their own safeguarding policies
- Agree to follow this policy when working with us
- Report concerns promptly
Policy Review
This policy is reviewed annually or sooner if legislation changes, new risks emerge, or a safeguarding incident highlights the need for revision.