Policy Reference Number	PT/SP/V2
Implementation Date	September 2024
Next Review Date	August 2025

1. Introduction

At Primed Talent, we are committed to safeguarding the welfare of all adults, particularly those who may be at risk of abuse, harm, or neglect. This policy outlines our approach to safeguarding, detailing the responsibilities of our staff, volunteers, and trustees, as well as the procedures we follow to ensure the safety and well-being of the individuals we work with. 

2. Policy Statement

Primed Talent believes that living a life free from harm and abuse is a fundamental right of every individual. We are committed to preventing abuse and harm, placing the needs and well-being of adults at risk at the center of our work. Our approach is guided by the principles set out in the Care Act 2014 and other relevant legislation. 

3. Scope and Purpose

This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, and any other individuals associated with Primed Talent. It covers all aspects of our work, whether conducted in person, online, or via third parties. The purpose of this policy is to: 

• Ensure the safety and well-being of adults at risk. 
• Provide clear procedures for identifying, reporting, and responding to safeguarding concerns. 
• Ensure compliance with UK legislation and best practices. 

4. Safeguarding Principles

Our safeguarding approach is underpinned by the six key principles outlined in the Care Act 2014: 

• Empowerment: Supporting individuals to make informed decisions with consent. 
• Prevention: Taking action before harm occurs. 
• Proportionality: Ensuring responses are appropriate to the level of risk. 
• Protection: Supporting those in greatest need. 
• Partnership: Working together with local authorities and other agencies. 
• Accountability: Being transparent and accountable in safeguarding practices.  

5. Definitions of Abuse and Neglect

Abuse and neglect can take many forms. At Primed Talent, we recognize the following types: 

• Physical Abuse: Including assault, hitting, slapping, and misuse of medication. 
• Domestic Abuse: Coercive, controlling, or threatening behavior between family members or partners. 
• Sexual Abuse: Non-consensual sexual activities, including harassment. 
• Psychological Abuse: Emotional abuse, including threats, intimidation, and harassment. 
• Financial or Material Abuse: Theft, fraud, and coercion in relation to financial matters. 
• Modern Slavery: Encompassing slavery, human trafficking, and forced labor. 
• Discriminatory Abuse: Including discrimination based on race, gender, disability, or age. 
• Organizational Abuse: Poor care practices within an institution or care setting. 
• Neglect and Acts of Omission: Failure to provide necessary care, leading to harm. 
• Self-Neglect: Neglecting one’s personal hygiene, health, or environment. 

Roles and Responsibilities

• Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): The DSL is responsible for overseeing safeguarding practices, providing guidance to staff, and leading investigations into safeguarding concerns. 
• Staff and Volunteers: All staff and volunteers are required to understand and follow this policy, report concerns, and participate in safeguarding training. 
• Management: Ensure the safeguarding policy is effectively implemented and reviewed regularly. 

7. Recognizing Signs of Abuse

Staff and volunteers are trained to recognize the signs of abuse and neglect, which may include: 

• Physical Indicators: Unexplained injuries, changes in appearance, or poor hygiene. 
• Behavioral Indicators: Withdrawal, anxiety, or sudden changes in behavior. 
• Financial Indicators: Unexplained financial difficulties or changes in financial control. 
• Environmental Indicators: Signs of neglect in living conditions or care environments. 

8. Reporting Procedures

• Immediate Action: If an adult is at immediate risk, staff must contact emergency services (999) immediately. 
• Internal Reporting: Any concerns about the safety or well-being of an adult must be reported to the DSL as soon as possible. 
• External Reporting: The DSL will assess the concern and, if necessary, refer it to the appropriate external agencies, such as local safeguarding boards, the police, or social services. 
• Confidentiality: All reports and concerns will be handled confidentially, with information shared on a need-to-know basis in line with the Data Protection Act 2018. 

9. Information Sharing and Confidentiality

Primed Talent is committed to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of individuals. We follow the principles of the Data Protection Act 2018 and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) when handling personal information. However, where there is a risk of harm, information may be shared with relevant authorities to ensure the safety of the individual. 

10. Safe Recruitment Practices

To ensure the safety of adults at risk, Primed Talent follows rigorous recruitment practices, including: 

• DBS Checks: All staff and volunteers working with adults at risk must undergo Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks appropriate to their role. 
• References: At least two references are required, with one being from a previous employer. 
• Interviews: Safeguarding questions are included in interviews to assess candidates’ understanding of their responsibilities.  

11. Training and Development

• Induction: All new staff and volunteers receive safeguarding training as part of their induction. 
• Ongoing Training: Regular refresher training is provided to ensure that all staff and volunteers are up-to-date with current safeguarding practices. 
• Specialist Training: Staff in specific roles, such as the DSL, receive additional training to support their responsibilities. 

12. Partnership with External Agencies

Primed Talent works closely with external agencies, including local safeguarding boards, social services, and the police, to ensure a coordinated approach to safeguarding. We will refer concerns to these agencies as appropriate and cooperate fully with any investigations.  

13. Record Keeping and Information Storage

All records related to safeguarding concerns are securely stored in accordance with our Data Protection Policy. Records are kept accurate, factual, and up-to-date to ensure that decisions made regarding an individual’s safety are based on the best available information. 

14. Monitoring and Review

This policy is reviewed annually by the management and the DSL to ensure it remains effective and compliant with legal requirements. Any changes will be communicated to all staff, volunteers, and stakeholders. 

15. Contact Information

If you have any concerns or need further information about our safeguarding practices, please contact our Designated Safeguarding Lead: 

• Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): Aakilunisa 
• Email: info@primedtalent.com 

Appendices 

Appendix A: Procedures for Responding to Safeguarding Concerns 

• Immediate Actions: 
• Contact emergency services if there is an immediate risk. 
• Ensure the safety of the individual. 
• Internal Reporting: 
• Report concerns to the DSL 
• Record the concern accurately and factually. 
• External Reporting: 
• The DSL will assess and refer concerns to appropriate external agencies. 
• Follow-Up: 
• The DSL will follow up on any actions taken and ensure the individual is supported. 

 Appendix B: Key Legislation and Guidance 

• Care Act 2014 
• Mental Capacity Act 2005 
• Data Protection Act 2018 
• General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) 

Appendix C: Contact Details for Safeguarding Agencies 

• Police: 999 (emergency) or 101 (non-emergency)