This policy states how we aim to safeguard children that come into contact with us as an organisation and the procedures within the policy outline how these will be implemented.
It includes what we will do to protect the safety and welfare of children in our care and what staff and volunteers should do if they are concerned about a child.
Having written policies and procedures makes it clear to everyone working in the organisation what their safeguarding responsibilities are and what they should do if they are concerned about a child.
It also demonstrates to parents/carers and children who access the service the organisation’s commitment to keeping children safe from harm. Properly implemented, it gives a message that the organisation takes safeguarding children very seriously and can contribute to deterring any individuals who may wish to harm children and young people.
It is however important that the policies become embedded in the way our organisation works and underpin the organisation’s practice. Written procedures do not in themselves protect children and young people – protection comes from the implementation and practice.
We extend this safeguarding commitment to our work supporting vulnerable adults.
The Linking Network is fully committed to safeguarding the welfare of all children and young people. It recognises its responsibility to take all reasonable steps to promote safe practice and to protect children from harm, abuse and exploitation.
The Linking Network acknowledges its duty to act appropriately to any allegations, reports or suspicions of abuse.
Paid staff and volunteers will endeavour to work together to encourage the development of an ethos which embraces difference and diversity and respects the rights of children, young people and adults.
