A full version of this policy, is approved by directors and retained in electronic form. The details below set out the principles and main elements of the safeguarding policy.
- Policy Statement
Rochdale Writes CIC (Company Number 17324783) is a Community interest Company based in Rochdale, Lancashire, that provides a range of creative writing opportunities to individuals and organisations. These opportunities include workshops, online and in person and other events which may be open to people of all ages.
Rochdale Writes is committed to creating safe, respectful, and inclusive environments for all participants. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility, and we are dedicated to protecting the welfare of and children, young people, and vulnerable adults involved in our activities.
This policy outlines our approach to safeguarding and provides guidance on recognising and responding to concerns.
2. Purpose of the Policy
• To protect children, young people, and vulnerable adults who attend our activities
• To provide members, volunteers, and facilitators with guidance on safeguarding practices and procedures.
• To ensure compliance with current safeguarding legislation and best practice.
3. Scope
This policy applies to:
• All directors/members of the Rochdale Writes
• Group leaders, facilitators, volunteers, and any other individuals working with or supporting Rochdale Writes or its activities
• Any activities or events run under the name of the company, both in-person and online.
4. Definitions
• Child/Young Person: Anyone under the age of 18.
• Vulnerable Adult: A person aged 18 or over who may be unable to take care of or protect
themselves from harm or exploitation.
• Abuse: A form of maltreatment, which can include physical, emotional, sexual abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
5. Our Safeguarding Principles
• The welfare of the participant is paramount.
• All individuals have the right to equal protection from all types of harm or abuse.
• Safeguarding is a shared responsibility and concerns will be taken seriously and acted upon promptly.
• We will work in partnership with external agencies where appropriate.
6. Responsibilities
• A Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSL) will be appointed to manage safeguarding concerns and act as the point of contact.
- All facilitators and volunteers must:
- Read and understand this safeguarding policy
- Report any safeguarding concerns to the DSL immediately
- Treat all participants with respect and dignity7. Code of Conduct
All members, facilitators, and volunteers are expected to:
• Behave respectfully toward others.
• Maintain appropriate professional boundaries at all times.
• Avoid being alone with a child or vulnerable adult whenever possible.
- Avoid inappropriate physical or verbal contact.