SAFEGUARDING AND CHILD PROTECTION POLICY
The Never Alone Project
1. Policy Statement
The Never Alone Project is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and young people. We recognise that every child has a fundamental right to be protected from harm, abuse, and exploitation.
Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. All staff, trustees, volunteers, ambassadors, and partners share a duty of care to ensure that children and young people are safe, supported, and protected at all times.
We operate on the principle that the welfare of the child is paramount. We are committed to treating all children and young people equally and without discrimination.
2. Purpose and Scope
This policy applies to all individuals acting on behalf of The Never Alone Project, including staff, trustees, volunteers, ambassadors, and students.
It covers safeguarding children and young people, preventing harm, responding to concerns, and ensuring safe recruitment and working practices.
3. Safeguarding Lead
Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL):
Jodie Mortern-Davies
Bereavement Service Manager
07592469186
Jodie@tnap.co.uk
4. Safeguarding Principles
Child-centred approach; protection from harm; participation in decisions; partnership working; proportionate information sharing.
5. Legal Framework
Children Act 1989 & 2004; Working Together to Safeguard Children (2023); Keeping Children Safe in Education; Equality Act 2010; Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006; Data Protection Act 2018 & UK GDPR; Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998; UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
6. Types of Abuse
Physical; emotional; sexual; neglect; domestic abuse; CSE/CCE; online abuse; FGM; trafficking and modern slavery; grooming and radicalisation; peer-on-peer abuse.
7. Safer Recruitment
Enhanced DBS checks; two references; identity and right to work checks; safeguarding-focused interviews; probation periods; supervised work until clearance.
8. Reporting Concerns
All concerns must be reported immediately to the DSL and recorded in writing. If a child is at immediate risk, emergency services must be contacted.
9. Record Keeping
Records must be accurate, confidential, and securely stored.
10. Allegations Against Staff
Reported to DSL and Chair; may be referred to LADO.
11. Whistleblowing
Concerns may be raised internally or via NSPCC Whistleblowing Helpline.
12. Review
Reviewed annually or sooner if legislation changes.
