Heritage Ministry is committed to safeguarding all beneficiaries, volunteers, staff, and community members—especially vulnerable adults and children. We aim to create a safe, respectful, and supportive environment for everyone who interacts with our charity.
1. Purpose of This Policy
This policy sets out how we protect individuals from harm, abuse, or neglect while using our services or participating in our activities.
2. Our Commitment
- Prioritise the safety and wellbeing of all beneficiaries
- Promote an environment free from discrimination, bullying, and exploitation
- Train staff and volunteers to recognise and report safeguarding concerns
- Respond promptly to any allegations or incidents
- Work with local authorities, police, and safeguarding partners where required
3. Who This Policy Applies To
- All volunteers
- Staff members
- Trustees
- Partner organisations
- Anyone engaging with Heritage Ministry’s services
4. Types of Harm We Guard Against
- Physical abuse
- Emotional or psychological abuse
- Financial or material exploitation
- Neglect or omission
- Sexual abuse or harassment
- Discrimination or hate-based behaviour
5. Recognising a Concern
- Sudden changes in behaviour
- Visible injuries or unexplained marks
- Withdrawal or fearfulness
- Reports of mistreatment
- Poor living conditions
- Financial irregularities
6. Reporting a Safeguarding Concern
All safeguarding concerns must be reported immediately to the designated Safeguarding Lead.
Safeguarding Contact: 📧 contactus@heritageministry.co.uk
We will take all concerns seriously, handle them confidentially, and act in line with the UK’s safeguarding laws.
7. Responding to a Concern
- Listen carefully and reassure the person
- Record the details accurately
- Report to relevant safeguarding authorities where necessary
- Protect the person from further harm
- Review the situation to prevent future incidents
8. Confidentiality
Information will be shared only on a need-to-know basis and when necessary to protect someone from harm.
9. Training
All volunteers and staff will receive safeguarding guidance appropriate to their roles.
10. Review
This policy will be reviewed annually or when legislation changes.
