Megan's Starr Foundation Safeguarding Policy 2025
Policy Statement
Megan's Starr Foundation is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone involved with the organisation. This includes staff, volunteers, beneficiaries, visitors, and the general public. We are dedicated to creating a safe environment where abuse, neglect, and exploitation are not tolerated. We actively promote the protection and welfare of all individuals, regardless of their role within the organisation or the nature of their involvement.
Purpose of the Policy
This policy is designed to:
- Ensure the safety and welfare of all individuals connected to Megan's Starr Foundation.
- Outline clear procedures for identifying and responding to safeguarding concerns.
- Promote a culture of awareness and responsibility for safeguarding across the entire organisation.
- Ensure all staff, volunteers, beneficiaries, and members of the public understand their role in safeguarding and know how to act when concerns arise.
Scope
This policy applies to everyone connected with Megan's Starr Foundation, including but not limited to:
- Staff members (full-time, part-time, and temporary)
- Volunteers
- Beneficiaries and service users
- Contractors and service providers
- Visitors to the premises
- The general public participating in our events or activities
Designated Safeguarding Leads
For any safeguarding concerns or enquiries, please contact:
- Nicola Harteveld, Chief Executive Officer and Designated Safeguarding Lead
- Leeann McSparron, Deputy Safeguarding Lead
They are available via 07359 246921 ~ help.meg@outlook.com
Our Commitment to Safeguarding
Megan's Starr Foundation adheres to the following safeguarding principles:
- Inclusivity: Everyone who interacts with our organisation has the right to feel safe and be protected from harm. This applies to people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities.
- Zero Tolerance: Abuse in any form will not be tolerated. We are committed to taking swift and appropriate action to protect individuals and uphold our safeguarding standards.
- Awareness and Training: We aim to foster a culture where safeguarding is everyone's responsibility. All individuals connected to our organisation will be encouraged to recognise safeguarding issues and will have access to the appropriate training.
- Partnerships: We work collaboratively with external agencies to promote the safety and well-being of all who come into contact with us.
- Confidentiality and Respect: We handle safeguarding concerns with sensitivity and share information only when necessary to protect individuals.
Recognising and Reporting Abuse
All members of Megan's Starr Foundation, including staff, volunteers, and visitors, are expected to:
- Recognise: Be alert to signs of abuse, neglect, harm, or exploitation.
- Respond: Take immediate action if there are concerns about someone's safety.
- Record: Document the concern with accurate and clear details.
- Report: Contact the Designated Safeguarding Leads without delay.
Types of Abuse Covered
Our policy includes protection against various types of abuse:
- Physical Abuse: Causing physical harm or injury.
- Emotional or Psychological Abuse: Actions or behaviours that cause emotional harm or distress.
- Sexual Abuse: Any non-consensual sexual activity or exploitation.
- Neglect: Failing to provide essential care, support, or supervision.
- Financial or Material Abuse: Unauthorised use or exploitation of an individual's financial resources.
- Discriminatory Abuse: Unfair or harmful treatment based on characteristics such as race, gender, disability, or sexuality.
Megan’s Starr 2025
Safeguarding Responsibilities for All
- Staff and Volunteers: Are required to complete safeguarding training and follow procedures for reporting concerns.
- Beneficiaries and Service Users: Will be encouraged to speak up if they have any concerns and will be supported in doing so.
- Visitors and the Public: Are encouraged to report any concerns to our safeguarding leads.
- Trustees and Management: Are responsible for ensuring effective safeguarding policies and practices are in place.
Confidentiality and Information Sharing
All safeguarding concerns will be treated confidentially. Information will be shared only with those who need to know in order to protect individuals and ensure proper action is taken. This is done in compliance with relevant legal requirements.
Allegations Against Staff, Volunteers, or Participants
If an allegation is made against anyone associated with Megan's Starr Foundation:
- The Designated Safeguarding Lead must be informed immediately.
- An appropriate investigation will be carried out, following safeguarding and disciplinary procedures.
- We will fully cooperate with external agencies, if required.
Safer Recruitment and Ongoing Checks
- Background Checks: All staff and volunteers working with vulnerable individuals will undergo necessary background checks and provide references.
- Induction and Training: All new members will receive safeguarding training as part of their induction and ongoing development.
Policy Review
This policy is effective from July 2025 and will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains up-to-date and in line with any changes in legislation or organisational needs. The next review will take place in July 2026.
Contact Information
For further details or to report a safeguarding concern, contact:
Megan’s Starr 2025