Safeguarding policy
1. Purpose and Commitment
goaldate is committed to providing a safe, supportive, and respectful environment for everyone who takes part in any group sessions, workshops, or events. Our goal is to help people set and achieve personal goals together, and this can only happen when participants feel comfortable, respected, and protected from harm. This policy outlines how we will safeguard the wellbeing of all participants, particularly anyone who may be vulnerable, and how we will respond appropriately to any concerns.
2. Scope
This policy applies to: - All goaldate group sessions, events, and activities. - The founder, facilitators, volunteers, and anyone representing goaldate. - All participants attending sessions, whether in person or online.
3. Our Safeguarding Principles
goaldate is committed to: - Treating all participants with respect, empathy, and equality. - Creating an inclusive, safe space for open discussion. - Maintaining appropriate professional boundaries at all times. - Responding promptly and appropriately to any safeguarding concerns. - Respecting privacy, while recognising that confidentiality cannot be guaranteed if someone may be at risk of harm.
4. Legislative Framework
goaldate follows safeguarding guidance and legislation under the Care Act 2014 (England) and the Wales Safeguarding Procedures 2019, which define safeguarding adults as protecting a person's right to live in safety, free from abuse and neglect. This policy reflects the principles of empowerment, prevention, proportionality, protection, partnership, and accountability.
5. Code of Conduct for Facilitators
Facilitators must: - Model respectful, supportive behaviour at all times. - Keep discussions confidential unless a safeguarding concern arises. - Never share participant information without consent, unless required for safety. - Avoid giving counselling or therapy — sessions are for reflection and discussion only. - Report any safeguarding concern immediately to the Safeguarding Lead.
6. Recognising and Responding to Concerns
A safeguarding concern might include: - A participant sharing something that suggests they or someone else is at risk. - Behaviour from anyone that feels inappropriate, unsafe, or harmful. If a concern arises: 1. Stay calm and listen. 2. Do not promise confidentiality — explain that information may need to be shared for safety. 3. Record what was said or observed as soon as possible, using the participant's own words. 4. Report the concern to the Safeguarding Lead immediately.
7. Whistleblowing
If a safeguarding concern involves the Safeguarding Lead or relates to goaldate's safeguarding practice, anyone may raise the issue directly with the Local Council Safeguarding Team or the Ann Craft Trust for independent advice. We encourage a transparent, open culture where concerns are raised without fear of repercussions.
8. Safeguarding Lead
Name: Lowri Holborow Role: Founder, goaldate Email: goaldate.info@gmail.com If the Safeguarding Lead is unavailable and there is an immediate risk of harm, contact emergency services (999) or Social Services via the Swansea Council Safeguarding Team.
9. Review and Training
This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if there are significant changes in operations. All facilitators will be made aware of their safeguarding responsibilities before leading sessions.