1. Policy Statement

SalamaNet C.I.C believes that every person has the right to live free from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. We are committed to creating a safe environment in all our activities and services. This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, trustees, and anyone acting on behalf of SalamaNet.

2. Scope

• All paid staff and volunteers working with SalamaNet
• Trustees and board members
• Partner organisations delivering services on our behalf
• Any individual representing SalamaNet in a professional capacity

3. Our Responsibilities

• Designate a named Safeguarding Lead responsible for all safeguarding concerns
• Ensure all staff and volunteers receive appropriate safeguarding training
• Conduct DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks for all roles involving contact with children or vulnerable adults
• Maintain clear procedures for reporting and responding to safeguarding concerns
• Review this policy annually or following any significant safeguarding incident

4. Recognising Abuse

Abuse can take many forms including physical, emotional, sexual, financial, and neglect. Staff and volunteers are trained to recognise the signs of abuse and to respond appropriately. Any concerns — however minor they may seem — must be reported to the Safeguarding Lead without delay.

5. Reporting a Concern

• Do not investigate the concern yourself or promise confidentiality
• Record what you have seen or heard using the individual's own words where possible
• Report immediately to the Safeguarding Lead
• If a child or adult is in immediate danger, contact the emergency services (999) first
• Concerns about children should also be referred to Leeds Children's Social Care: 0113 222 4403
• Concerns about adults at risk should be referred to Leeds Adult Social Care: 0113 222 4401

6. Confidentiality

Information about safeguarding concerns will be shared only on a need-to-know basis. Confidentiality cannot be guaranteed where there is a risk of harm to a child or vulnerable adult. All records relating to safeguarding concerns will be stored securely and separately from general personnel files.

7. Safer Recruitment

SalamaNet follows safer recruitment practices for all roles. This includes verifying identity, obtaining references, and conducting DBS checks where required. No individual will be permitted to work unsupervised with children or vulnerable adults until all checks are satisfactorily completed.

8. Breaches of This Policy

Any breach of this policy will be taken seriously and may result in disciplinary action, including dismissal or referral to statutory authorities. Failure to report a safeguarding concern is itself a breach of this policy.

9. Contact

Safeguarding Lead: SalamaNet C.I.C, Leeds. For urgent concerns outside office hours, contact the Leeds Emergency Duty Team on 0113 240 9536 or the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000.