Fairness Website (hereinafter referred to as “Fairness”) is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for all individuals participating in our Digital Inclusion Training and Support programs. This Safeguarding Policy applies to both in-person and online interactions and is intended to protect customers, colleagues, and any vulnerable adults involved in the training sessions. This policy outlines our safeguarding commitments, the measures we have in place, and the expectations for all staff, trainers, volunteers, and stakeholders. The primary objective of this policy is to prevent harm, exploitation, and abuse, and to provide a safe environment for all.

Purpose and Scope

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that Fairness provides a safe environment for all participants in its programs; staff, volunteers, and stakeholders are aware of their responsibilities in safeguarding all attendees, particularly vulnerable adults; and a clear process is in place for identifying, responding to, and reporting safeguarding concerns. This policy applies to all Fairness employees, contractors, and volunteers who are involved in Digital Inclusion Training, as well as any individuals working on behalf of or collaborating with Fairness in conducting Digital Inclusion Training and Support.

Key Principles

The following principles are central to our safeguarding approach:

• Respect and Dignity: All individuals are treated with respect and dignity, regardless of their age, race, gender, religion, or abilities.
• Right to Safety: Everyone has the right to feel safe and to be protected from abuse, harm, and neglect.
• Empowerment: All customers and colleagues are supported to make their own choices and are provided with information to help them understand safeguarding concerns and resources.
• Accountability: Fairness has clear and transparent safeguarding procedures and is committed to following these diligently.

Definitions

For the purposes of this policy, Safeguarding is defined as protecting people from harm, abuse, and exploitation. Vulnerable adults include individuals who may be at risk due to age, disability, mental health, or other factors that may increase their vulnerability. Abuse can take many forms, including physical, emotional, financial, sexual, and neglect.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Safeguarding Officer: Terry Purser-Barriff serves as the designated Safeguarding Officer, overseeing safeguarding practices, responding to concerns, and ensuring compliance with legal obligations.
• Trainers and Support Staff: All trainers and support staff must adhere to this policy, report safeguarding concerns, and attend safeguarding training.
• Customers and Participants: While not responsible for safeguarding others, participants are encouraged to report any issues or concerns related to their safety.

Code of Conduct

All staff, trainers, and volunteers must adhere to the following:

• Treat all individuals with respect and provide support without discrimination.
• Avoid any actions or language that could be perceived as abusive, inappropriate, or exploitative.
• Maintain appropriate boundaries, including physical, emotional, and professional boundaries with customers and colleagues.
• Report any suspicion of abuse or harm immediately to the Safeguarding Officer.

Safeguarding Measures

To promote a safe environment, Fairness will:

• Conduct regular safeguarding training for all staff, trainers, and volunteers.
• Ensure background checks (e.g., DBS checks in the UK) for all staff who will interact with vulnerable adults.
• Create a secure environment for in-person sessions by conducting them in safe, accessible, and inclusive venues.
• Require all staff to understand and comply with data protection policies to ensure confidentiality and privacy.

Reporting Procedures

If a safeguarding concern arises:

• Immediate Action: If a person is in immediate danger, contact emergency services.
• Reporting: All concerns should be reported to the designated Safeguarding Officer as soon as possible.
• Confidentiality: Reports will be handled confidentially and shared only with relevant parties involved in managing the incident.
• Documentation: The Safeguarding Officer will maintain accurate records of all reports, actions, and outcomes, ensuring compliance with relevant legal and regulatory frameworks.

Responding to Allegations of Abuse

In the event of an allegation of abuse:

• Investigation: The Safeguarding Officer will coordinate an investigation, following Fairness’s procedures and in consultation with appropriate external agencies if required.
• Support: Fairness will ensure that both the individual affected and the person accused are treated fairly and with respect.
• Outcome: If allegations are substantiated, Fairness may take disciplinary actions, including termination of employment or partnerships where necessary.

Training and Awareness

Fairness will:

• Provide mandatory safeguarding training for all employees, trainers, and volunteers.
• Ensure all staff understand their responsibilities and are familiar with this policy.
• Promote a culture of vigilance and awareness around safeguarding issues.

Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually, or more frequently if needed, to reflect changes in legislation, guidance, or Fairness’s operational needs. Any changes will be communicated to all employees, volunteers, and partners.

Contact Information

• Designated Safeguarding Officer: Terry Purser-Barriff
• Contact Details: terry.purser-barriff@fairness.co.uk

Sign-Off

This policy has been approved by the Fairness management team and is effective as of 08/11/2024.

This Safeguarding Policy serves as an essential document to guide Fairness staff in maintaining a safe and inclusive environment. All team members are expected to familiarise themselves with its contents and uphold the standards outlined herein.