It is the responsibility of everyone in society to keep children and vulnerable adults safe from harm. Safeguarding means taking all reasonable steps to prevent harm, to protect people, especially children and vulnerable adults from that harm; and to respond swiftly and appropriately when harm does occur.
Keeping children and vulnerable adults safe from harm is a top priority for VC, as we partner with both local and international organisations who have direct contact with groups such as schools, healthcare providers, and the elderly.
It is for this reason that ensuring the physical, mental and emotional wellbeing of children and vulnerable adults is a constant priority for VC. We have recently revised our Child and Vulnerable Adult Safeguarding policy to strengthen its approach to child and vulnerable adult protection.
“VC recognizes the importance of putting safeguards in place to protect children and vulnerable adults who we come into contact with through our work. As such, we have a robust Safeguarding policy, implemented directly into our day-to-day activities, and communicated effectively to all staff, volunteers, partners and beneficiaries. Our policy is in line with best practice and the laws and regulations that govern child and adult Safeguarding requirements” says Patricia Callanan, VC Designated Safeguarding Officer.
Steps taken by the VC to ensure that children and vulnerable adults are safeguarded while interacting with the organisation.
The following are some of the procedures that have been put in place:
- VC’s Safeguarding policy and procedures are clearly set out in the organisation’s Child and Vulnerable Adult Safeguarding Policy.
- Reporting channels – VC has clear reporting channels where concerns or allegations of abuse can be raised and investigated accordingly.
- Stringent recruitment processes- All members of staff and volunteers working with children and vulnerable adults are required to undergo thorough background checks as a condition of employment.
- Robust training programmes – Staff and volunteers receive training regularly as part of an on-going commitment to ensure that they are fully versed in all aspects of Safeguarding.
- Partnership and collaboration – VC works closely with partners to learn best practices and improve our safeguarding efforts.
As part of the new safeguarding policy, VC has updated its code of conduct to clearly outline the expected behaviours and appropriate relationships with children and vulnerable adults. The policy also specifies how the safeguarding of vulnerable people should be integrated into all areas of the organisation’s activity.
