Our commitment

As an organisation we recognise the need to provide a safe and caring environment for children, young people and adults. We acknowledge that children, young people and adults can be the victims of physical, sexual and emotional abuse, and neglect.  We accept the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant of Human Rights, which states that everyone is entitled to “all the rights and freedoms set forth therein, without distinction of any kind, such as race, colour, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status”.  We also concur with the Convention on the Rights of the Child which states that children should be able to develop their full potential, free from hunger and want, neglect and abuse. They have a right to be protected from “all forms of physical or mental violence, injury or abuse, neglect or negligent treatment or exploitation, including sexual abuse, while in the care of parent(s), legal guardian(s), or any other person who has care of the child.” As an organisation we have therefore adopted the procedures set out in this safeguarding policy in accordance with statutory guidance.  We are committed to build constructive links with statutory and voluntary agencies involved in safeguarding.

The policy and any attached practice guidelines are based on the ten Safe and Secure safeguarding standards published by thirtyone:eight.

The Trustees and WAM Leadership undertake to:

• endorse and follow all national and local safeguarding legislation and procedures, in addition to the international conventions outlined above.
• provide ongoing safeguarding training for all its workers and will regularly review WAM’s Professional Guidance for Staff and Volunteers.
• ensure that the premises meet the requirements of the Equality Act 2010 and all other relevant legislation, and that it is welcoming and inclusive.
• support the Designated Safeguarding Lead(s) in their work and in any action they may need to take in order to protect children and adults with care and support needs.

Duty Safeguarding Lead, Out of Hours Contact Telephone: 07736 933105. Please note that this number is for out of hours safeguarding emergencies only, for all other enquiries please use the office number 01242 603 678.

If you would like to speak to anyone about Safeguarding at WAM you can contact our Designated Safeguarding Lead, Ali Kirkwood using the form below.