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Safeguarding Introduction

ANL takes Safeguarding very seriously. Our Safeguarding policy is found below. Our Designated Safeguarding Lead is Cheryl Cross and our Deputy DSL is Stephen Dolley, both of whom receive ongoing training for these roles. Our Director with Responsibility for Safeguarding is Amy Stone. Contact details…. We keep abreast of current best practice through Christian Safeguarding Services.

1. Introduction

This Safeguarding Policy outlines our commitment to ensuring the safety, well-being, and protection of young people and adults at risk of harm in all our activities and services. We recognise our duty to prevent harm, abuse, and exploitation and to provide a safe environment for all individuals engaging with our organisation, especially because, as Christians, we believe that every person is made in the image of God and we seek to show God’s love and care as an organisation. This policy aligns with UK safeguarding legislation and best practices. Ascend Next Level CIC encourages and supports young people and their families to live life well. We long to see people flourish as they engage in the positive experiences we offer in terms of outdoor adventure, different forms of creative expression (art, dance, music, building projects etc) and Christian prayer. The directors are responsible for leading our Safeguarding arrangements: governance and accountability is in place.

2. Purpose and Scope

The purpose of this policy statement is:

  • to protect children, young people and adults at risk of abuse who receive Ascend Next Level’s services from harm. This includes the children of adults who use our services
  • to provide staff and volunteers, as well as children and young people and their families, with the overarching principles that guide our approach to safeguarding
  • This policy applies to all paid staff, volunteers, contractors, directors and anyone working on behalf of Ascend Next Level. It covers all activities involving young people and adults at risk of abuse, whether in-person or online.

3. Supporting Documents

This policy statement should be read alongside:

  • Role description for the Designated Safeguarding Lead
  • Dealing with Disclosures and Concerns about a Child or Young Person
  • Definitions of Abuse Supporting document
  • Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy
  • Managing Allegations Against Staff and Volunteers
  • Recording Concerns and Information Sharing
  • Child Protection Records Retention and Storage
  • Code of Conduct for Staff and Volunteers
  • Behaviour Codes for Children and Young People
  • Photography and sharing images guidance
  • Safer Recruitment
  • Online Safety
  • Anti-Bullying
  • Managing Complaints
  • Speaking Up
  • Health and Safety
  • Induction, Training, Supervision and Support
  • Adult to Child Supervision Ratios

4. Legal Framework

This policy has been drawn up on the basis of legislation, policy and guidance that seeks to protect children in the United Kingdom.

5. Definitions

Safeguarding is protecting a person’s health and human rights, enabling them to live free from harm, abuse and neglect, and promoting their wellbeing.

  • A child or young person is anyone under 18.
  • A young adult is anyone between 18 and 25.
  • An Adult at Risk of Abuse is an adult unable to protect themselves due to care needs.
  • An Adult with Care and Support Needs requires help with daily living tasks.
  • A Vulnerable Adult includes anyone in the above categories.

Safeguarding includes protecting from maltreatment, ensuring safe development, and promoting wellbeing.

6. Statement of Commitment

Ascend Next Level is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and adults at risk of harm in our care.

We recognise that:

  • welfare is paramount
  • safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility
  • everyone has equal right to protection
  • some individuals require additional support

We will:

  • value, listen to and respect individuals
  • ensure trained safeguarding leads are in place
  • ensure staff understand procedures
  • maintain safe recruitment (including DBS where required)
  • store data securely
  • share concerns appropriately with agencies
  • maintain anti-bullying practices
  • ensure safe environments

7. Monitoring and Review

Safeguarding arrangements will be reviewed annually for effectiveness and compliance. Responsibility lies with the DSL and Directors.

8. Christian Practice, Theology and Pastoral Care

Ascend Next Level is a Christian organisation but welcomes people of all faiths and none.

Staff must not apply pressure to adopt beliefs.

Faith discussions must be respectful and never condemnatory on topics such as sexuality, gender identity or abortion.

Support must be sought if staff feel unsure in handling faith conversations.

9. Contact Information