Safeguarding Policy

Our commitment

The Impact Society CIC (company number 17318526) works with young people aged 16 to 25 and with adults. Some participants are under 18, and some adults may be at risk. We believe everyone has the right to be safe, and we take our responsibility to protect them seriously.

Scope

This policy applies to all directors, staff, volunteers, mentors, freelancers and partners delivering activity on our behalf.

Legal framework

This policy reflects the Children Act 1989 and 2004, Working Together to Safeguard Children, the Care Act 2014 and the relevant guidance from the local safeguarding partnerships in Birmingham and the London boroughs where we work.

Designated Safeguarding Lead

Our Designated Safeguarding Lead is Sophie Marie Bennett, contactable at hello@theimpactsociety.co.uk. A deputy will be named for each delivery location.

How we keep people safe

• Safer recruitment, including references and DBS checks appropriate to the role
• Safeguarding training for everyone working with participants
• A code of conduct for staff, volunteers and mentors
• Clear rules on one-to-one contact, online communication and social media
• Risk assessments for every activity and venue
• Secure handling of personal information

Reporting a concern

If anyone is in immediate danger, call 999. Otherwise, report any concern to the Designated Safeguarding Lead as soon as possible, record what you saw or were told in the person’s own words, and do not investigate yourself. The DSL will decide whether to refer to the local authority, the police or another agency.

Review

This policy will be reviewed every year, or sooner if the law or our work changes.