1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 This policy outlines the fundamental elements and overarching principles that Delta Enterprises Group adheres to in order to ensure the safeguarding of vulnerable children.

1.2 It is our commitment to provide a safe and secure environment for all individuals in our care.

1.3 Effective policies and procedures are essential for the implementation of safeguarding practices.

2. PURPOSE OF THE POLICY

2.1 The primary objective of this policy is to protect vulnerable children who receive any services from Delta Enterprises Group.

2.2 We prioritize the well-being and safety of these individuals in all aspects of our operations.

2.3 The company will take into consideration the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards when making safeguarding-related decisions.

3. LEGAL FRAMEWORK

3.1 Our policies and practices align with relevant legislation and guidance available to us.

3.2 We ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations in order to safeguard children effectively.

4. GUIDING PRINCIPLES

4.1 Our safeguarding work is guided by six key principles:

• EMPOWERMENT: We support and encourage our clients to make their own decisions, giving them control over their lives.
• PREVENTION: We work collectively to prevent abuse and neglect by raising awareness through training and providing accessible information to our staff.
• PROPORTIONALITY: We consider the level of risk presented in abuse situations and respond appropriately, respecting the individual’s best interests and intervening only as necessary.
• PROTECTION: Our staff are equipped with the knowledge of how to respond when abuse occurs and are aware of the appropriate steps to take if concerns arise.
• PARTNERSHIP: We collaborate with each other and local authorities to report any signs or concerns of abuse or neglect, ensuring a collective effort in safeguarding.
• ACCOUNTABILITY: Safeguarding is the responsibility of all staff and the company as a whole. We set expectations for staff roles and responsibilities and take responsibility for managing safeguarding concerns effectively.

5. ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

5.1 ALL STAFF

Every individual employed by Delta Enterprises Group, regardless of their role, has a crucial role to play in safeguarding children who require care and support from abuse. All staff members are required to undergo relevant training and familiarize themselves with our Safeguarding Policy, Guidance, and Procedures.

6. SENIOR MANAGEMENT

6.1 The Senior Management Team is responsible for receiving and reviewing reports on safeguarding activities through the designated persons for safeguarding. They ensure that staff members receive adequate training to identify signs of abuse and promote discussions on safeguarding during team meetings.

6.2 Delta Enterprises Group adopts a fair and consistent approach to recruitment. We are committed to safeguarding vulnerable children and have robust recruitment policies in place to minimize the risk of hiring individuals who may pose a threat.

6.3 Due to the nature of our services, which may require staff (including subcontractors) to undergo checks under the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006, we ensure that the appropriate level of screening is conducted based on the level of unsupervised access given to individuals.

7. BREACHES OF POLICY

7.1 Failure to comply with Delta Enterprises Group’s safeguarding policy may result in various actions, depending on the nature and consequences of the incident. This may include:

• Disciplinary process: When concerns arise regarding staff misconduct or competence.
• Safeguarding investigation with the Local Authority: If concerns about the actions or inactions of a staff member or volunteer require reporting to the child safeguarding team in the relevant area.
• Referral to Disclosure & Barring Service: In cases where concerns about the actions or inactions of a staff member or volunteer may have criminal implications.
• Additional or repeat training: If the concern does not meet the threshold for the above processes but indicates a need for further development of safeguarding competence.

8. BASIC TERMS AND DEFINITIONS

8.1 ABUSE IN RELATION TO CHILDREN

Abuse in relation to children who require care and support is not universally defined, but it can be described as “a single or repeated act or lack of appropriate action, occurring within any relationship where there is an expectation of trust, which causes harm or distress to a child who needs care and support.” There are various types of abuse, including physical, verbal, psychological, sexual, financial, domestic, neglect, discrimination, institutional, and modern slavery. Abuse can occur in any relationship and may result in significant harm or exploitation. Further information can be found in our Child Safeguarding policy and procedures.

9. TRAINING AND AWARENESS

Delta Enterprises Group ensures that appropriate safeguarding training is available to staff and relevant individuals associated with the organization, including contractors. Employees working with children are required to undergo awareness training that enables them to:

• Understand the concept of safeguarding and their role in protecting children.
• Recognize signs of a vulnerable child in need of safeguarding and take appropriate action.
• Understand how to report a safeguarding alert.
• Uphold dignity and respect when working with children.
• Have knowledge of the Safeguarding Children Policy.

10. REPORTING A SAFEGUARDING CONCERN

Delta Enterprises Group has established a clear and defined process for staff members to follow when raising a safeguarding concern. Please refer to Appendix 2 for details on the reporting procedure, which outlines the appropriate channels for escalating safeguarding matters and the responsibility of staff to report any concerns.

11. SOCIAL MEDIA

All staff (including subcontractors) should be aware of Delta Enterprises Group’s social media policy and procedures and the code of conduct for behavior towards the children we support.

12. WHISTLEBLOWING

Delta Enterprises Group encourages individuals within the organization to have the confidence to speak up or take action if they are dissatisfied with any aspect of the organization. Whistleblowing occurs when someone raises a concern about dangerous or illegal activities or any wrongdoing within the company. The company has a whistleblowing policy in place to protect whistle blowers.

13. ABUSE OF VULNERABLE CHILDREN/CHILD PROTECTION ALLEGATIONS

Delta Enterprises Group takes allegations made against staff members, including allegations of abuse or domestic violence towards children, seriously. Appropriate investigations will be conducted, and the risk to children or vulnerable adults will be assessed and managed accordingly.

14. DATA PROTECTION & GDPR

Delta Enterprises Group expects all staff members, including subcontractors, to maintain confidentiality and handle information in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) and Data Protection laws. However, information may be shared with the Local Authority if a child is at risk of harm or safeguarding concerns arise. The company has specific Information Sharing policies in place for further guidance on sharing personal information.