Safeguarding Policy

Here is the finalized version of the Safeguarding Policy:

Global Linguistic Services GLS Limited – Safeguarding Policy

Purpose:

The purpose of this policy is to ensure the safety and well-being of children, young people, and vulnerable adults who interact with Global Linguistic Services GLS Limited. We are committed to creating a safe environment, preventing harm, and responding effectively to any safeguarding concerns.

Scope:

This policy applies to all employees, contractors, and third parties acting on behalf of Global Linguistic Services GLS Limited. It is applicable in all settings where our services involve children, young people, or vulnerable adults.

Policy Statement

Global Linguistic Services GLS Limited is committed to:

1. Promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults.
2. Preventing abuse or neglect through robust safeguarding practices.
3. Responding effectively and promptly to safeguarding concerns.
4. Complying with all relevant legislation, including the Children Act 1989 and 2004, and the Care Act 2014.

Definitions

• Child: Anyone under the age of 18.
• Vulnerable Adult: An individual aged 18 or over who may need additional support due to age, illness, disability, or other factors.
• Abuse: Includes physical, emotional, sexual, and financial abuse, as well as neglect and exploitation.

Responsibilities

Organizational Responsibilities:

• Ensure all staff and contractors understand their safeguarding responsibilities.
• Provide training and resources to enable the identification and reporting of safeguarding concerns.
• Appoint a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) to oversee safeguarding matters.

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL):

• Act as the primary point of contact for safeguarding concerns.
• Ensure safeguarding procedures are implemented and followed.
• Liaise with external agencies, such as social services or law enforcement, as necessary.

Employees and Contractors:

• Understand and comply with this policy.
• Report any safeguarding concerns immediately to the DSL.
• Maintain professional boundaries and act in the best interests of those at risk.

Procedures

Recognizing Safeguarding Concerns:

• Be alert to signs of abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
• Look for changes in behavior, physical signs of harm, or disclosures of abuse.

Reporting Concerns:

• Immediately report any safeguarding concerns to the DSL.
• Record all details accurately, including dates, times, and descriptions of incidents.
• Maintain confidentiality and share information only on a need-to-know basis.

Responding to Disclosures:

• Listen calmly and reassure the individual that they are being taken seriously.
• Avoid asking leading questions or making promises you cannot keep.
• Report the disclosure to the DSL without delay.

Escalation:

• The DSL will assess the concern and, if necessary, refer it to social services, law enforcement, or other relevant agencies.

Safer Recruitment:

• Conduct background checks, including DBS checks, for all staff and contractors who may work with children or vulnerable adults.
• Verify references and assess candidates’ suitability for safeguarding responsibilities.

Training and Awareness:

• All employees and contractors must complete safeguarding training appropriate to their role.
• Regular refresher training will be provided to ensure awareness of current safeguarding practices.

Confidentiality and Record-Keeping:

• All safeguarding records will be securely stored and accessible only to authorized personnel.
• Information will be shared on a need-to-know basis and in compliance with data protection laws.

Monitoring and Review:

• This policy will be reviewed annually or after any significant safeguarding incident. Updates will be made to reflect changes in legislation or organizational practices.

Contact Information:

For safeguarding concerns, contact the Designated Safeguarding Lead:
Email: safeguarding@globallinguisticservices.co.uk
Phone: +447498896053

Effective Date: 1 November 2024

By adhering to this Safeguarding Policy, Global Linguistic Services GLS Limited ensures the safety and protection of vulnerable individuals and promotes a culture of vigilance and responsibility.