top of page
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • X

My Planet Health Safeguarding Policy

​

Date of Approval: 28/07/2025
Review Date: 28/07/2026
Approved by: Board of Directors
Policy Lead: Jayne Earl

 

1. Introduction

My Planet Health C.I.C is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young adults (aged 18–25) and vulnerable adults who engage with our counselling and support services. We believe that all individuals, regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, or sexual orientation, have the right to protection from harm and abuse.

 

2. Purpose and Scope

This policy applies to:

  • All staff, volunteers, trustees, and contractors of [Your C.I.C. Name]

  • Any services or activities conducted under the organisation’s name

 

This policy covers:

  • Prevention of abuse and harm

  • Recognition and reporting of safeguarding concerns

  • Roles and responsibilities

  • Confidentiality and information sharing

 

3. Definitions

Safeguarding means protecting a person's right to live in safety, free from abuse and neglect.

 

Young Adults are individuals aged 18–25 who may still need support due to life circumstances or developmental stage.
Vulnerable Adults are individuals aged 18+ who may be at risk of harm due to age, illness, disability, mental health needs, or life experiences.

 

Types of Abuse include:

  • Physical, emotional, sexual, financial abuse

  • Neglect or acts of omission

  • Discriminatory or institutional abuse

  • Psychological or coercive control

  • Exploitation, including online or grooming

 

4. Our Commitment

We will:

  • Provide a safe, respectful, and confidential environment for counselling

  • Ensure all staff and volunteers receive safeguarding training appropriate to their role

  • Operate clear procedures for identifying and responding to safeguarding concerns

  • Maintain appropriate supervision and case management procedures for practitioners

  • Work in line with local safeguarding boards and statutory guidance (e.g. Care Act 2014, Working Together to Safeguard Children 2018)

 

5. Roles and Responsibilities

  • Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): [Insert Name & Contact Info]
    Responsible for overseeing safeguarding concerns, advice, referrals, and training.

  • Deputy Safeguarding Lead (if applicable): [Insert Name & Contact Info]

  • All staff, counsellors, and volunteers must:

    • Familiarise themselves with this policy

    • Report concerns immediately to the DSL

    • Attend regular safeguarding training

 

6. Responding to Safeguarding Concerns

If a client discloses harm, or if a member of staff has concerns:

  1. Listen carefully, without judgment.

  2. Do not promise confidentiality—explain your duty to pass on serious concerns.

  3. Record facts accurately, including dates, direct quotes, and observations.

  4. Report immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Lead.

  5. DSL will assess and, if appropriate, refer to local Adult Social Services or Police.

 

7. Confidentiality and Information Sharing

  • All information will be treated in line with GDPR and professional ethical standards (e.g., BACP or UKCP codes).

  • Information will only be shared with relevant parties where:

    • The individual is at risk of significant harm

    • Others (e.g., children or the public) may be at risk

    • A legal obligation exists (e.g., terrorism, serious crime)

 

8. Safer Recruitment and Training

  • All staff, counsellors, and volunteers in regulated activity will be DBS-checked before engaging in client-facing work.

  • Ongoing safeguarding training will be required at regular intervals.

  • Recruitment will include robust reference and vetting procedures.

 

9. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if:

  • There is a change in legislation or guidance

  • A safeguarding incident or concern suggests a gap in current policy

  • New risks or service developments require policy adaptation

 

10. Contact Details

  • Designated Safeguarding Lead: Jayne Earl 

  • Local Adult Safeguarding Board: Surrey County Council and Surrey and Borders NHS]

  • Police (non-emergency): 101

  • Emergency Services: 999

 

Signatures

Chairperson: ___________________________ Date: ___________
Safeguarding Lead: ______________________ Date: ___________
Director/Manager: _______________________ Date: ___________

bottom of page