SAFE ONLINE SPACE CYMRU SAFEGUARDING POLICY
SAFEGUARDING POLICY
1. Policy Statement
Safe Online Space Cymru is committed to promoting the safety and well-being of all individuals who
engage with our organization, particularly children, young people, and vulnerable adults. Our mission is
to foster a safe and inclusive digital community, and we recognize our responsibility to safeguard
everyone involved in our activities. This policy outlines our commitment to safeguarding and the
procedures we follow to ensure the highest standards of safety.
2. Scope
This Safeguarding Policy applies to all staff, directors, volunteers, contractors, and anyone working on
behalf of Safe Online Space Cymru. It also applies to individuals and groups participating in our
programs, events, and online platforms.
3. Safeguarding Principles
Safe Online Space Cymru is guided by the following principles:
• Zero Tolerance: We have zero tolerance for abuse, exploitation, or harm.
• Responsibility: Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.
• Inclusivity: We prioritize the safety of all individuals, especially vulnerable groups.
• Transparency: Clear reporting and accountability mechanisms are in place.
• Confidentiality: All concerns will be handled with discretion, ensuring privacy and respect.
4. Definitions
• Abuse: Any action that causes harm to an individual. This includes physical, emotional, sexual,
and financial abuse, as well as neglect.
• Child/Young Person: Any individual under the age of 18.
• Vulnerable Adult: Any individual aged 18 or over who may be at risk of harm due to disability,
illness, or other factors.
• Safeguarding: Protecting individuals from harm and promoting their well-being.
SAFE ONLINE SPACE CYMRU SAFEGUARDING POLICY
5. Roles and Responsibilities
Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL):
• Ensures implementation of this policy.
• Oversees safeguarding training for staff and volunteers.
• Acts as the primary point of contact for safeguarding concerns.
• Reports serious incidents to external authorities as required.
Staff and Volunteers:
• Adhere to this policy and safeguarding procedures.
• Complete safeguarding training.
• Report any safeguarding concerns promptly to the DSL.
Directors:
• Ensure organizational compliance with safeguarding obligations.
• Review and approve safeguarding policies and procedures.
6. Code of Conduct
All individuals associated with Safe Online Space Cymru must:
• Treat everyone with respect and dignity.
• Ensure activities are appropriate and inclusive.
• Avoid situations where they are alone with children or vulnerable adults.
• Report any safeguarding concerns immediately.
7. Reporting and Responding to Concerns
Steps to Report a Concern:
1. Recognize: Identify potential signs of abuse or harm.
2. Respond: Ensure the immediate safety of the individual at risk.
3. Report: Contact the DSL without delay. In the DSL’s absence, contact a deputy safeguarding lead
or a director.
SAFE ONLINE SPACE CYMRU SAFEGUARDING POLICY
4. Record: Document all details of the concern using the Safeguarding Concern Form.
5. Refer: The DSL will assess the concern and, if necessary, escalate it to local authorities or law
enforcement.
Emergency Reporting:
If someone is in immediate danger, call emergency services at 999 and inform the DSL as soon as
possible.
8. Safeguarding Procedures
Recruitment and Training:
• All staff and volunteers undergo rigorous background checks, including DBS (Disclosure and
Barring Service) checks.
• Induction training includes mandatory safeguarding training.
• Refresher safeguarding training is provided annually.
Event and Activity Risk Assessments:
• Risk assessments are conducted for all activities to identify and mitigate safeguarding risks.
• Events are supervised by trained staff and volunteers.
• Digital events include moderated online spaces to ensure participant safety.
Online Safety Measures:
• Safe Online Space Cymru promotes secure online interactions by implementing:
o Robust data protection measures.
o Moderation of online platforms and forums.
o Tools and resources to educate participants about online safety.
9. Confidentiality and Data Protection
• All safeguarding concerns are treated with strict confidentiality.
• Safeguarding records are securely stored and accessed only by authorized personnel.
• Personal data is handled in compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
SAFE ONLINE SPACE CYMRU SAFEGUARDING POLICY
10. Monitoring and Review
This policy will be reviewed annually by the directors and DSL to ensure it remains effective and compliant with
relevant legislation and guidance.
11. Relevant Legislation and Guidance
This policy aligns with:
• The Children Act 1989 and 2004.
• The Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006.
• The Care Act 2014.
• Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018).
• GDPR (2018).
12. Contact Information
• Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): Princess Onyeanusi,
[email protected]
• Deputy Safeguarding Lead: Opeyemi Olorunfemi, [email protected]
• Local Authority Safeguarding Board: Cardiff and Vale Regional Safeguarding Board
• Emergency Services: 999
Declaration We, the Directors of Safe Online Space Cymru, fully endorse this Safeguarding Policy and are
committed to its implementation.
Signed:
Opeyemi Olorunfemi
Director of
Operations Date:
01/07/25