SAFEGUARDING VULNERABLE ADULTS

PROTECTION OF VULNERABLE ADULTS POLICY

Policy Statement:

CDUK recognize that the services they provide are used by adults who are vulnerable or may be vulnerable at certain times.  We have a duty to ensure the welfare of vulnerable adults who may be at risk. This duty involves reporting the risk to a Trustee, and by promoting a safe environment within the organisation.

CDUK believe that vulnerable adults must be safeguarded from all forms of abuse. It recognises that it must at all times protect vulnerable adults from the risk of abuse and identify and deal with specific instances of abuse if they occur.  We will take every possible action to prevent abuse and to deal with it as promptly and effectively as possible if it occurs.

Aim of the Policy:

The central aim of CDUK’s Safeguarding Policy is to inform all Volunteers of:

• CDUK’s approach to the Safeguarding of vulnerable adults
• ways in which CDUK do this
• the steps taken to avoid abuse taking place
• the actions that will be taken by the CDUK to deal with abuse if it occurs

Definition of Abuse:

Abuse of clients may take any of the following forms:
• physical abuse
• financial or material abuse
• psychological abuse
• sexual abuse
• neglect
• discriminatory abuse
• inhuman or degrading treatment
• inappropriate or excessive restraint.

Responsibility:

CDUK volunteers have a duty to report serious concerns relating to abuse to a CDUK Trustee and/or the Chairman
CDUK have a duty to ensure that Volunteers or others who may be supporting CDUK activities that include working with vulnerable adults adopt safe practices.

CDUK will:

• Set out and inform volunteers of the procedures for responding to suspicions or evidence of abuse
• Maintain vigilance concerning the possibility of abuse of vulnerable adults from whatever source
• Encourage a climate of openness which enables CDUK Volunteers to pass on concerns about behaviour that might be abusive
• Revise policies and procedures to minimise the risk of abuse
• Investigate any allegations of abuse quickly and thoroughly
• Implement improvements to procedures if an investigation reveals deficiencies in the way in which CDUK operates
• Collaborate with other relevant agencies in combating abuse and improving the protection

CDUK expect its volunteers to:

• Refrain from any abusive action in relation to vulnerable adults
• Report to the CDUK anything they witness which is or might be abusive
• Co-operate in any investigation into alleged abuse.

Monday, 14 October 2019
Ros Grant – Chairman of Trustees
01341 388649