Safeguarding

1. Purpose

Training Link (the Organisation, we, our or us) is committed to preventing and responding to risks of harm to and promoting the welfare of all adults at risk that we work with. Training Link aims to create and maintain a safe environment for young or vulnerable people, students who are over eighteen, staff and visitors. The purpose of this policy is to protect Training Link’s customers, learners and staff who are using Training Link for courses or the assessment centre to take exams.

2. Scope

We recognise the importance of this commitment to safety and welfare and, further, are committed to safeguarding without discrimination due to an individual’s age, disability, race, religion or belief, sex, gender reassignment, pregnancy or maternity leave status, marriage or civil partnership status, or sexual orientation.

This Safeguarding Policy is based on the safeguarding laws of England, Wales, and Scotland, including related guidance issued by the UK Government and relevant governmental departments, agencies, and public bodies. If this Policy is at any time inconsistent with this body of law, Training Link will act to meet the requirements of up-to-date safeguarding laws in priority to the requirements set out in this Policy.

Training Link has implemented this Safeguarding Policy in order to meet its obligations as an organisation working with adults at risk.

This safeguarding policy outlines the procedures and guidelines for addressing allegations or suspicions of abuse reported by staff, students, visitors or any other individuals. It is imperative that all adhere to these principles to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone involved.

3. Defining Safeguarding

Safeguarding extends beyond the scope of child protection. The policy is designed to guarantee the safety of all learners and staff, shielding them from harm, abuse, harassment, and bullying, with these terms holding distinct legal definitions within civil and criminal law.

Additionally, safeguarding encompasses the responsible conduct of all staff to prevent unfounded allegations of inappropriate behaviour, ensuring that such accusations do not cause concern.

For the purposes of the Safeguarding Policy:

A ‘child or young person’ means any person under the age of 18 (i.e. those who have not yet reached their 18th birthday).
A ‘vulnerable adult’ is defined by the The Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 as a person aged 18 and over and:

receiving a social care service
receiving a health service
living in sheltered accommodation
detained in custody or under a probation order
requiring assistance in the conduct of his/her affairs
receiving a service or participating in an activity targeted at older people, people with disabilities or physical or mental health conditions
any other adults whose particular circumstances make them vulnerable at a particular time.

‘Staff’ means all employees, full-time and self-employed, and all agencies, contract and staff working for Training Link.

Examples of specific safeguarding issues can include but are not limited to:

child sexual exploitation (CSE)
sexual violence, harassment and abuse
bullying including cyberbullying
domestic violence
racism
antisemitism
stalking
upskirting
drugs
fabricated or induced illness
faith abuse
female genital mutilation (FGM)
forced marriage
gangs and youth violence
gender-based violence/violence against women and girls
mental health
private fostering
radicalisation or extremism
sexting
teenage relationship abuse
trafficking

3. Principles for Centre Staff, students, individuals and visitors

All staff, students, individuals and visitors of Training Link are expected to:

Treat all individuals with respect and dignity.
Be vigilant and proactive in identifying signs of abuse or suspicion thereof.
Maintain confidentiality and sensitivity when handling safeguarding concerns.
Collaborate with relevant authorities and agencies in the investigation and resolution of safeguarding issues.
Adhere to the legal and ethical standards outlined in this policy and relevant legislation.

4. Identification, Recording, and Reporting of Allegations

Anyone who suspects or becomes aware of potential abuse must:

Immediately report their concerns to the designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO) or their Deputy.
Document all observations, conversations, and incidents related to the alleged abuse using the designated reporting mechanisms.
Follow the established reporting procedures outlined in this policy without delay.

5. Responsibilities of the Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO)

The DSO plays a central role in overseeing safeguarding practices within Training Link and is responsible for:

Receiving and recording all safeguarding concerns reported by staff, students, or other individuals.
Initiating appropriate actions in response to safeguarding concerns, including liaising with external agencies and authorities as necessary.
Providing support and guidance to staff and individuals involved in safeguarding cases.
Ensuring compliance with legal requirements and best practices in safeguarding.

6. Training and Support

Training Link is committed to providing training and support to all staff and representatives involved in safeguarding responsibilities and that all individuals are equipped to fulfil their safeguarding duties effectively.

7. Review and Monitoring

This safeguarding policy will be reviewed regularly to ensure that it remains relevant and effective. Any updates or revisions to the policy will be communicated promptly to all relevant stakeholders. Additionally, safeguarding practices and procedures will be monitored continuously to identify areas for improvement and ensure compliance with legal requirements and best practices.

8. Conclusion

Safeguarding is a collective responsibility that requires the commitment and collaboration of everyone within the Training Link. By adhering to the principles and procedures outlined in this policy, we demonstrate our dedication to promoting a safe and supportive environment for all individuals involved with Training Link.

Date: April 2024