Safeguarding Policy

Eutopia Wellbeing CIC
Safeguarding Policy
Last Updated: June 2026

1. Policy Statement

Eutopia Wellbeing CIC is committed to providing a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for all participants, volunteers, staff, and visitors.

We recognise our responsibility to safeguard and promote the welfare of children, young people, and adults at risk who may engage with our workshops, support groups, events, activities, or services.

We believe that everyone has the right to be protected from abuse, neglect, exploitation, discrimination, and harm.

All staff and volunteers share responsibility for safeguarding and are expected to act appropriately if concerns arise.

2. Purpose of this Policy

This policy aims to:

• Protect children, young people, and adults at risk who participate in our activities.
• Provide guidance to staff and volunteers on recognising and responding to safeguarding concerns.
• Promote a culture of safety, respect, and wellbeing.
• Ensure safeguarding concerns are handled appropriately and promptly.

3. Scope

This policy applies to:

• Directors and trustees (where applicable)
• Employees
• Volunteers
• Contractors
• Facilitators
• Anyone representing Eutopia Wellbeing CIC

It applies to all activities organised or delivered by Eutopia Wellbeing CIC, whether in person, online, or through partner organisations.

4. Definitions

Child

A child is any person under the age of 18.

Adult at Risk

An adult at risk is a person aged 18 or over who may need care and support and may be unable to protect themselves from abuse, neglect, or exploitation.

5. Types of Abuse

Abuse can take many forms, including:

• Physical abuse
• Emotional or psychological abuse
• Sexual abuse
• Financial abuse
• Neglect
• Domestic abuse
• Discriminatory abuse
• Online abuse
• Modern slavery and exploitation
• Self-neglect

Safeguarding concerns should always be taken seriously, regardless of the type of abuse suspected.

6. Recognising Concerns

Concerns may arise through:

• Direct disclosure by an individual
• Observations of behaviour or injuries
• Information provided by another person
• Online interactions
• Patterns of concerning behaviour

It is not the role of staff or volunteers to investigate concerns. Their responsibility is to report concerns appropriately.

7. Responding to a Disclosure

If someone discloses abuse or a safeguarding concern:

Do:

• Stay calm and listen carefully.
• Take the individual seriously.
• Reassure them that they have done the right thing by speaking up.
• Explain that information may need to be shared to keep people safe.
• Record the information accurately as soon as possible.
• Report concerns promptly.

Do Not:

• Promise confidentiality.
• Ask leading questions.
• Investigate the matter yourself.
• Make assumptions or judgements.
• Confront an alleged abuser.

8. Reporting Safeguarding Concerns

Any safeguarding concern should be reported as soon as possible to the designated safeguarding lead.

Where there is an immediate risk of serious harm or danger, emergency services should be contacted immediately by calling 999.

Concerns should be recorded accurately, including:

• Date and time
• Names of those involved
• Details of what was observed or disclosed
• Actions taken

Records should be stored securely and confidentially.

9. Confidentiality

Information relating to safeguarding concerns will only be shared on a need-to-know basis and in accordance with applicable data protection legislation.

Confidentiality must never prevent action being taken to protect someone from harm.

10. Safer Working Practices

Staff and volunteers are expected to:

• Treat all individuals with dignity and respect.
• Maintain appropriate professional boundaries.
• Avoid situations that could be misinterpreted.
• Follow organisational policies and procedures.
• Report any safeguarding concerns immediately.

Any inappropriate behaviour by staff, volunteers, or participants will be addressed promptly.

11. Online Activities

Where activities are delivered online:

• Appropriate safeguarding measures will be implemented.
• Participants will be treated respectfully.
• Personal information will be protected.
• Concerns arising during online sessions will be managed in accordance with this policy.

12. Recruitment and Training

Eutopia Wellbeing CIC is committed to safer recruitment practices where appropriate.

Depending on the nature of activities and roles, this may include:

• References
• Identity checks
• DBS checks where legally required
• Safeguarding training

Staff and volunteers will be provided with safeguarding guidance relevant to their roles.

13. Review of Policy

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if legislation, guidance, or organisational circumstances change.