Safeguarding Policy
Protecting Adults at Risk
Last updated: April 2025
- Introduction
Romney Marsh Community Hub is committed to safeguarding the wellbeing, dignity and rights of the people we support. We work with older adults, people with disabilities, and others who may be at risk of abuse or neglect. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility, and we take this responsibility seriously.
- Our Responsibility
We believe every person has the right to live free from harm, abuse and exploitation. We are committed to creating a safe, respectful and supportive environment for everyone who engages with our services whether online, in person, or by phone.
- Who This Policy Applies To
This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, trustees, contractors and anyone working on behalf of Romney Marsh Community Hub. It covers all services, advice and support offered by the charity, including community programmes, online platforms and outreach services.
- What Is Safeguarding?
Safeguarding means protecting a person’s right to live in safety, free from abuse and neglect. Adults at risk may be people who, because of age, disability, illness or other factors, are more vulnerable to harm.
Types of abuse can include:
Physical, emotional or psychological abuse
Financial abuse or exploitation
Neglect or acts of omission
Discriminatory abuse
Domestic abuse
Self-neglect
Organisational abuse
- Creating a Safe Environment
We are committed to providing services and spaces (including our website) that are inclusive and accessible. All staff and volunteers receive safeguarding training relevant to their roles and understand how to spot and respond to concerns.
We also make sure:
Our digital content is accessible to people with visual, hearing, cognitive and mobility impairments.
Staff and volunteers act professionally, respectfully and with clear boundaries.
Our recruitment processes include safeguarding checks (e.g., DBS checks where appropriate).
- Reporting Concerns
Anyone can raise a safeguarding concern, whether it’s about themselves, someone else, or something they’ve witnessed. All concerns will be taken seriously and responded to promptly and sensitively.
If someone is in immediate danger, always call 999.
To report a concern or seek guidance:
Please speak to a member of staff or volunteer directly
Reports can be made anonymously if needed via email. We will follow the appropriate procedures in line with local authority safeguarding boards and relevant laws.
- Confidentiality
Information about safeguarding concerns will be shared only on a need-to-know basis to protect individuals and ensure appropriate action is taken. We will always respect the rights and wishes of the person at risk wherever possible.
- Policy Oversight and Review
The policy is reviewed annually or when significant changes in legislation or best practices occur.