Tel: 07886 045515

e-mail: talk@rozscounsellingcorner.co.uk

Safeguarding & Child Protection & Adults with Care & Support Needs Policy

Registered company No. 1593261

Roz’s Counselling Corner

Brookfield House

Over Ross Street

Ross on Wye

Herefordshire

Phone: 07886045515

Email: talk@rozscounsellingcorner.co.uk

Web Site: www.rozscounsellingcorner.co.uk

Introduction

Roz’s Counselling Corner is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the well-being of children, young people, and adults who may require care and support.

As a professional counselling service, we recognise our duty to protect vulnerable individuals and ensure their safety at all times. This policy outlines our responsibilities and the measures we take to fulfil them, in accordance with relevant legal requirements and established best practices.

Our safeguarding procedures are grounded in key legislation, including the Children Act 2004 (amended by the Children & Social Work Act 2017) and the Care Act 2014 (as amended). These laws require us to take appropriate steps to protect children and adults with care needs from harm.

All staff members at Roz’s Counselling Corner are expected to be familiar with, and adhere to, the procedures detailed within this policy.

Our Commitment to Safety

We recognise that safeguarding is an ongoing responsibility, not simply a procedural requirement. We are dedicated to maintaining a secure and respectful environment for all clients (hereafter referred to as “clients”). To this end, we:

  • Encourage vigilance in identifying potential abuse or safeguarding concerns.
  • Provide clear guidance on how to respond when concerns arise.
  • Foster an environment where clients feel safe, heard, and supported.
  • Ensure confidentiality wherever possible, while taking appropriate action when safety concerns are identified.

Legal and Ethical Framework

Our safeguarding approach is informed by a robust legal framework and ethical guidelines, including but not limited to:

  • The Children Act 1989 (and amendments)
  • The Equality Act 2010
  • The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC)

We also follow the latest statutory guidance, including:

  • Working Together to Safeguard Children: A Guide to Inter-Agency Working to Safeguard and Promote the Welfare of Children (HM Government, December 2023)
  • Keeping Children Safe in Education: Statutory Guidance for Schools and Colleges (Department for Education, September 2023)
  • Draft Information Sharing Advice for Practitioners Providing Safeguarding Services to Children, Young People, Parents, and Carers (HM Government, June 2023)

Safeguarding Across the UK

Roz’s Counselling Corner provides counselling services across the UK.

Reporting safeguarding concerns can vary by region, as different counties or local authorities have their own protocols. Roz’s Counselling Corner takes responsibility for ensuring all safeguarding concerns are reported to the correct local agency.

Staff are trained to identify the appropriate reporting pathways, ensuring that regardless of a client’s location, their safety remains the highest priority.

Definition of Safeguarding

Safeguarding involves taking proactive steps to protect children and vulnerable adults from harm, including:

  • Supporting children’s well-being and development.
  • Protecting individuals from abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
  • Ensuring safe and nurturing environments.
  • Addressing issues promptly to minimise risk.

In contrast, child protection and adult protection refer specifically to actions taken when a risk of harm or actual harm has been identified.

Definition of Abuse

Abuse is the misuse of power or authority that leads to harm or exploitation. It can occur in various forms, including:

  • Physical Abuse: Infliction of physical injury.
  • Sexual Abuse: Involvement in non-consensual sexual activities.
  • Emotional Abuse: Persistent emotional maltreatment.
  • Neglect: Failure to provide basic needs.
  • Financial Abuse: Misuse or theft of money or assets.
  • Online Abuse: Harm through digital or social media channels.

Some adults may be particularly vulnerable due to disability, illness, or social circumstances. Staff must be aware of the signs of abuse and respond appropriately.

Safeguarding Reporting Procedures

If there are any concerns or suspicions that a child, young person, or adult with care needs is at risk, staff must follow the established reporting process. The first step is to complete a Safeguarding Incident and Documentation Form (SIDF) before reporting to the appropriate agency.

Reporting methods vary throughout the UK, so it is essential to verify the correct local authority procedures. Roz’s Counselling Corner ensures referrals are made accurately and consistently. Staff must not make verbal or direct online referrals from personal devices.

Maintaining Standards and Compliance

Roz’s Counselling Corner ensures all staff receive training to understand safeguarding issues and their reporting responsibilities. Any breach of professional conduct or failure to adhere to safeguarding procedures will result in disciplinary action.

By upholding these practices, Roz’s Counselling Corner remains committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for all clients, consistently adhering to the highest standards of care and protection.