Advantage Shield Haven is deeply committed to upholding our safeguarding responsibilities. As part of this commitment, all our staff members receive extensive training in safeguarding, fostering awareness about their crucial role in protecting the Young persons in our care. Our priority is to ensure the safety of Young persons from any alleged abusers.
Staff play a critical role in identifying abuse and promptly reporting it to the relevant authorities. We adhere to guidelines provided by the Local Safeguarding Children's Board and consider guidance issued by the Department for Education to:
· Make sure the designated safeguarding officer receives appropriate training and support for their role.
· Ensure all staff members know the name of the designated safeguarding officer and understand their responsibilities.
· Make sure all staff are alert to the signs of abuse and understand their duty to refer any concerns to the designated safeguarding officer.
· Build and maintain effective relationships with relevant agencies, cooperating with their inquiries concerning safeguarding matters.
· Engage local safeguarding professionals in the development and upkeep of our safeguarding policies and procedures.
· Keep accurate written records of any concerns about Young persons, even if there's no immediate need for a referral.
· Ensure all records are securely stored in locked locations and backed up using secure online storage systems.
· Develop and implement internal procedures for handling allegations against staff members, using Advantage Shield Haven's disciplinary and grievance procedures as appropriate.
· Follow safe recruitment practices in line with Advantage Shield Haven recruitment policy and UK legislation, including adherence to Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) regulations.
· Conduct enhanced DBS checks for all staff, renewing every three years, and maintaining an updated central record.
· Implement Advantage Shield Haven's ICT policy and ensure it is followed by staff and residents.
· Install security measures like visitor and staff ID checking arrangements, signing-in processes, and, where possible, security cameras and door access and vision panels.
· Offer ongoing learning opportunities for staff to expand and refresh their safeguarding knowledge.
· Create an environment where Young persons feel secure, are encouraged to communicate, and are listened to.
· Make sure Young persons know they can approach adults within the organization if they have concerns. Provide Young persons with contacts outside of our organization in case they feel uncomfortable disclosing information internally.
· At Advantage Shield Haven, we strive to make Young persons feel safe and secure, treating our facility as their home. Bullying is strictly forbidden and will be addressed firmly. Staff members are always available to listen and take appropriate actions, which may involve police involvement or initiating child/adult protection procedures.