Policy Information
Effective Date: March 2026
Review Date: March 2027
Policy Owner: TKA Organisation
This policy sets out TKA Organisation’s commitment to safeguarding children, young people, and vulnerable adults who engage with our programmes, mentoring initiatives, workshops, and community activities.
1. Safeguarding Statement
TKA Organisation is committed to protecting the safety, wellbeing, and rights of all children, young people, and vulnerable adults who participate in our programmes. We recognise that safeguarding is a shared responsibility and that everyone involved in the organisation has a duty to promote a safe environment and respond appropriately to concerns. Our charity aims to provide mentoring, skills development, and community support opportunities in a setting that promotes dignity, respect, and protection from harm.
2. Purpose of the Policy
The purpose of this policy is to ensure that TKA Organisation has clear safeguarding procedures in place to protect participants and guide staff, volunteers, and trustees in recognising and responding to safeguarding concerns. The policy establishes a framework for safeguarding responsibilities, safe recruitment practices, reporting procedures, and appropriate responses to safeguarding disclosures.
3. Scope
This policy applies to all individuals representing or working with TKA Organisation, including trustees, staff, volunteers, mentors, programme facilitators, contractors, and partner organisations involved in delivering activities. It covers all in-person and online activities delivered by the organisation.
4. Legal Framework
TKA Organisation operates in accordance with safeguarding legislation and guidance within the United Kingdom. This includes principles established under safeguarding laws relating to the protection of children and vulnerable adults, and guidance on working together to safeguard children. The organisation also adheres to data protection requirements when handling safeguarding-related information.
5. Safeguarding Principles
The welfare of the child or vulnerable person is paramount. All individuals have the right to protection from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Safeguarding concerns must be taken seriously and addressed promptly. Information should be shared only where necessary to protect individuals and prevent harm.
6. Roles and Responsibilities
Trustees are responsible for ensuring that appropriate safeguarding policies and procedures are in place. A Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) will oversee safeguarding processes and manage concerns reported to the organisation. Staff and volunteers must follow safeguarding procedures and report concerns without delay.
7. Safer Recruitment
TKA Organisation is committed to safe recruitment practices. Where roles involve working with children or vulnerable individuals, appropriate identity verification and Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks may be required. References and relevant experience may also be considered when recruiting volunteers or staff.
8. Recognising Abuse
Abuse may take several forms including physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, financial abuse, and online exploitation. Individuals working with TKA Organisation should remain alert to signs that may indicate a safeguarding concern, including sudden behavioural changes, unexplained injuries, or disclosures made by participants.
9. Responding to Safeguarding Concerns
If a safeguarding concern arises, the individual receiving the information should remain calm, listen carefully, and avoid asking leading questions. Confidentiality must not be promised. The concern should be recorded accurately and reported to the Designated Safeguarding Lead as soon as possible.
10. Reporting Procedures
All safeguarding concerns must be reported internally to the Designated Safeguarding Lead. Where an individual is at immediate risk of harm, emergency services should be contacted without delay. The organisation may also liaise with appropriate safeguarding authorities where necessary.
11. Online Safety
When programmes involve digital communication or online mentoring, appropriate safeguarding measures must be in place. Communication should occur through approved platforms, and personal contact through private social media accounts should be avoided.
12. Confidentiality and Record Keeping
Safeguarding information must be handled with sensitivity and stored securely. Records of safeguarding concerns should be accurate, factual, and accessible only to authorised individuals who require the information to fulfil safeguarding responsibilities.
13. Managing Allegations
Any allegations made against staff, volunteers, or individuals associated with TKA Organisation will be treated seriously. The organisation will follow appropriate procedures to ensure that allegations are handled fairly and that safeguarding responsibilities are prioritised.
14. Training and Awareness
TKA Organisation aims to ensure that staff and volunteers understand their safeguarding responsibilities. Safeguarding awareness and guidance may be provided to those involved in delivering programmes.
15. Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed regularly to ensure it remains effective and reflects current safeguarding best practice and legislation.