Safeguarding & Child Protection Policy

STATEMENT OF PRINCIPLES 

DS Counselling Training is committed to Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people and adults with additional needs and expects all staff, volunteers and partners to endorse and practise this commitment at all times. This policy has due regard to relevant legislation including Keeping Children Safe in Education 2016, Working Together to Safeguard Children 2015.

DS Counselling Training regards each learner as a unique individual and therefore seek to support learner development in ways which will foster security, confidence and independence. We recognise that high self-esteem, peer support, a safe and secure learning environment and clear lines of communication with trusted adults helps all young people and adults. These are regarded as central to the wellbeing of the individual and are therefore seen to be an intrinsic part of all aspects of the curriculum and ethos of DS Counselling Training. Our aim is...

• to safeguard all learners, (particularly children, young people and adults with identified needs).
• to safeguard staff, learners and others in carrying out their duties in teaching, supervising and supporting learners at all DS Counselling Trainings centres.

Scope Applies to:

• All learners, particularly children, young people and adults who may need support.
• All staff, volunteers and learners working at all DS Counselling Trainings centres.

In order to demonstrate our commitment to safeguarding and child protection we will:  

• Provide a safe environment for children and vulnerable adults to learn in.
• Identify children and vulnerable adults who are suffering, or likely to suffer, significant harm.
• Take appropriate action including referrals to see that such children and vulnerable adults are kept safe, both at home and at the Training venues.
• Ensure that students, staff, visitors, volunteers, delivery partners and contractors feel safe.
• Implement safeguarding measures that exceed minimum DBS (Disclosure & Barring Service) compliance including the safe recruitment of staff.
• Ensure that safeguarding is prioritised and that safe working practices are in place in all settings (including off site venues).
• Ensure that all staff are appropriately aware and knowledgeable in Safeguarding and Child Protection.
• Ensure risk assessments are in place and action as appropriate.
• Have procedures in place to safeguard all learners including being able to respond effectively to incidents.
• Minimise the occurrence of accidents and incidents.