Safeguarding Policy
1. Policy Statement
Kidney Care for All CIC (KCA) is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and adults at risk. We have a duty of care to ensure that everyone who engages with our organisation feels safe, respected, and protected from harm, abuse, or exploitation.
Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility, and we aim to create an environment where all individuals are treated with dignity and where concerns are taken seriously and acted upon appropriately.
2. Scope
This policy applies to:
– All directors, staff, volunteers, contractors, and anyone representing KCA
– All activities, services, or events run or facilitated by KCA involving children or vulnerable adults
3. Definitions
– Child: Anyone under the age of 18
– Adult at risk: A person aged 18 or over who has care or support needs, and is at risk of abuse or neglect
– Abuse: A form of maltreatment which may include physical, emotional, sexual, financial, or neglect
4. Safeguarding Responsibilities
– Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): The Board will appoint a DSL who will:
– Be the first point of contact for safeguarding concerns
– Ensure policies and procedures are followed
– Liaise with statutory services when required
– All staff, volunteers, and directors must:
– Understand and follow this policy
– Attend safeguarding training if their role involves contact with children or adults at risk
– Report concerns immediately to the DSL
5. Recognising Abuse
Abuse can take many forms:
– Physical: hitting, shaking, misuse of medication
– Emotional: bullying, threats, humiliation
– Sexual: assault, non-consensual acts, grooming
– Neglect: failure to provide adequate care or supervision
– Financial: exploitation, theft, coercion in relation to money
6. Reporting a Concern
– Concerns must be reported to the DSL or, if unavailable, to another director
– In an emergency where someone is at immediate risk, contact emergency services (999)
– Reports must be recorded in writing and treated confidentially
7. Responding to Disclosures
– Listen without judgment
– Do not promise confidentiality—explain that you must report it
– Record the facts and refer the concern immediately to the DSL
8. Safe Recruitment
KCA will:
– Seek references and carry out appropriate vetting for staff and volunteers
– Ensure safeguarding responsibilities are clearly outlined in role descriptions and contracts
9. Code of Conduct
All individuals representing KCA must:
– Treat all people with respect and dignity
– Avoid unnecessary physical contact
– Never be alone with a child or vulnerable adult unless essential and appropriate
– Report all safeguarding concerns promptly
10. Record Keeping and Confidentiality
– All safeguarding concerns will be securely documented and stored
– Information will be shared only on a need-to-know basis in line with data protection laws
11. Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed annually by the Board of Directors. The DSL is responsible for proposing updates based on changes in legislation or best practice.