Safeguarding Policy

TheUKCATPeople Safeguarding Policy

Last Updated 21/11/2023

1. Introduction

1.1 Policy Overview

TheUKCATPeople's Safeguarding Policy is meticulously crafted to safeguard the safety, well-being, and rights of all children and young people engaging with our services. This policy is integral to creating a nurturing environment where students are empowered to thrive academically and personally. It is enforceable upon all individuals associated with TheUKCATPeople, including but not limited to staff, tutors, volunteers, and students.

1.2 Policy Scope

This policy comprehensively governs all dimensions of safeguarding within TheUKCATPeople, ranging from the recruitment of tutors to the proactive management and resolution of any safeguarding concerns. It underscores our unwavering dedication to upholding the highest echelons of care, safety, and welfare for the young individuals under our tutelage.

2. Policy Framework and Legislation

2.1 Legislative Compliance

This policy is rigorously aligned with a broad spectrum of UK legislation and statutory guidelines, ensuring a comprehensive framework for safeguarding and child protection. These include, but are not limited to:

Children Act 1989 and 2004: Provides a comprehensive framework for the care and protection of children, including provisions for safeguarding, the welfare of children, and Local Authority responsibilities.
Data Protection Act 2018: Governs the handling of personal data, ensuring that information about children, parents, and staff is used appropriately and securely.
Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006: Establishes the necessity for appropriate checks on individuals who work with children and vulnerable groups.
Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE): Offers detailed guidance on safeguarding practices within educational settings.
United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, 1991: Underpins the rights of children and provides a framework for their protection and well-being.
Equality Act 2010: Ensures protection from discrimination for all individuals, promoting equality of opportunity.
Education Act 2002: Sets out responsibilities for educational settings regarding the welfare and safety of students.
Counter Terrorism and Security Act 2015: Includes provisions related to preventing radicalisation and extremism.
Human Rights Act 1998: Protects the human rights of individuals, including children and young people.
Children and Families Act 2014: Addresses the needs of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
Prevent Duty Guidance: Provides a framework for preventing extremism and radicalisation in educational settings.

This policy also respects and integrates guidance from local safeguarding partnerships and child protection agencies, ensuring that our practices are not only legally compliant but also responsive to the specific needs and contexts of the children and young people we work with.

Additionally, TheUKCATPeople commits to regular monitoring of legal updates and sector developments to ensure that our policy remains current and effective in the face of evolving legislative and regulatory landscapes.

2.2 Continuous Review and Adaptation

TheUKCATPeople pledges an unwavering commitment to the dynamic and regular review of this policy. This is to ensure not only its alignment with the evolving legal landscape but also to integrate best practices in child protection and safeguarding. This process will involve periodic consultations with experts in child welfare, legal compliance, and educational ethics to ensure the policy remains at the forefront of safeguarding practices.

3. Policy Implementation and Enforcement

3.1 Rigorous Implementation

TheUKCATPeople shall ensure the rigorous implementation of this policy through comprehensive training programmes, regular audits, and a culture of openness where safeguarding is everyone's responsibility. This includes fostering an environment where concerns can be raised without fear of reprisal.

3.2 Enforcement and Accountability

Clear mechanisms for enforcement and accountability will be established. Any deviation from this policy by staff, tutors, or volunteers will be met with appropriate and prompt action, ranging from training and guidance to disciplinary measures, depending on the severity of the infraction.

3.3 Protection of Tutors and Staff

TheUKCATPeople extends its safeguarding measures to protect not only students but also our tutors and staff. This involves ensuring the safety and well-being of tutors and staff in their interactions with clients, students, and among themselves. Measures include providing training on professional communication, offering support channels for reporting concerns, and ensuring that work environments, both physical and virtual, are safe and respectful.

4. Collaborative Approach

4.1 Potential Collaboration with External Agencies

While TheUKCATPeople primarily manages safeguarding internally, we acknowledge the potential benefits of collaborating with external safeguarding agencies, local authorities, and law enforcement, particularly in situations that warrant a more coordinated approach to child protection.

We maintain a readiness to engage with external bodies as and when required. This may include situations where external expertise or intervention is necessary for the child's welfare or in cases of legal obligations.

In the event of collaborating with external agencies, we will adhere to strict protocols for information sharing that respect confidentiality and legal requirements, ensuring that any data shared is pertinent, necessary, and in the best interests of the child's safety and well-being.

While we primarily rely on in-house training, we are open to participating in joint training initiatives with external agencies if such opportunities arise. This can enhance our staff's understanding of broader safeguarding contexts and emerging best practices.

If required, we are prepared to engage with local safeguarding networks to stay informed about regional child protection trends and strategies. This participation would be as needed, based on specific circumstances and requirements.

4.2 Internal Responsibility and External Resources

Our approach prioritises robust internal safeguarding procedures while recognising the value of external resources and assistance in complex or specialised scenarios.

We have a dedicated internal team responsible for managing all aspects of safeguarding within TheUKCATPeople. This team is the first point of contact for any concerns and is trained to handle most situations that may arise.

In complex cases or when facing unfamiliar safeguarding challenges, we may seek advice or consultation from external safeguarding experts or legal advisors to ensure our response is appropriate and effective.

4.3 Parental and Guardian Involvement

Parents and guardians are essential partners in safeguarding. TheUKCATPeople will engage them actively in understanding our safeguarding policies, procedures, and their crucial role in ensuring the safety and well-being of their wards.

5 Definitions of Abuse

5.1 Abuse: A Multifaceted Violation

Abuse constitutes a profound violation of an individual's fundamental human and civil rights. It manifests when an individual's actions or inactions jeopardise another's safety, health, or well-being. This can affect both adults and children, and the detrimental impacts of abuse can range from short-term to long-lasting consequences. Recognising abuse is critical, yet challenging, as its signs are not always apparent and victims might not disclose their experiences, sometimes due to a lack of awareness that what they are enduring is, in fact, abuse.

5.2 Types of Abuse

Abuse manifests in various forms, each with its unique characteristics and potential harms. These include but are not limited to:

Emotional Abuse: Inflicting psychological distress through actions or language.
Psychological Abuse: Manipulation or mental coercion that can lead to psychological trauma.
Physical Abuse: Inflicting physical harm or discomfort.
Sexual Abuse: Non-consensual sexual actions or interactions.
Financial Abuse: Exploiting or controlling an individual's financial resources.
Domestic Abuse: Abuse occurring within a domestic setting.
Organisational Abuse: Abuse that occurs within an institution or service setting.
Self-Harm: Individuals causing harm to themselves as a form of coping or expression.
Neglect: Failure to meet basic needs, whether through lack of action or inattention.

5.3 Child-Specific Considerations

A child, defined as anyone under the age of 18 as per Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE, 2022), is considered abused or at risk when their basic needs are not met due to acts of commission (active abuse) or omission (neglect). The ability of staff to identify signs of abuse and neglect is paramount in early intervention. This includes being vigilant about behaviours indicative of underlying issues such as substance abuse, truancy, or involvement in risky activities like the sharing of explicit images.

5.4 Role of TheUKCATPeople Staff

Staff members of TheUKCATPeople are trained and expected to be astute in recognising potential signs of abuse or neglect. In situations where there is uncertainty or concern, the matter should be promptly brought to the attention of the designated safeguarding lead or their deputy. Understanding that children might not be ready or able to articulate their experiences of abuse, exploitation, or neglect, staff members are equipped to approach such situations with sensitivity and discretion.

5.6 The Objective of Safeguarding

The fundamental goal of safeguarding within TheUKCATPeople is to:

Protect children from any form of maltreatment.
Prevent impairment of children's mental and physical health and development.
Ensure that children's upbringing is consistent with safe and effective care.
Actively engage in measures that facilitate the best outcomes for all children.

In alignment with "Keeping Children Safe in Education" (KCSIE, DfE, September 2022), this policy encompasses a broad spectrum of protective and proactive measures to safeguard the welfare of children and young people entrusted to our care.

6. Responding to Safeguarding Concerns

6.1 Immediate Action

Upon any suspicion or disclosure of abuse, TheUKCATPeople mandates the immediate implementation of protective measures to ensure the safety and well-being of the child or young person involved. Such measures include but are not limited to, contacting emergency services for urgent situations and promptly informing the child's parents or guardians, except in cases where this might exacerbate the risk to the child. In every instance, the paramount consideration is the immediate safety and emotional well-being of the child or young person.

6.2 Recording and Reporting

Consistent with best practice guidelines and legal requirements, all concerns, disclosures, or allegations of abuse are meticulously documented securely and confidentially. These records form the basis for a comprehensive reporting process to the designated safeguarding lead within our organisation. In circumstances where the safeguarding concern implicates a member of our senior staff, it is our explicit protocol to bypass internal hierarchies and report directly to an appointed external safeguarding officer. This protocol ensures impartiality and integrity in handling such sensitive issues.

6.3 Investigation and Follow-up

TheUKCATPeople is committed to an ethos where every allegation of abuse is treated with the utmost seriousness and rigour. Investigations are conducted in strict adherence to our established procedures and are in full compliance with legal obligations. Throughout the investigative process, the confidentiality and welfare of all parties involved, particularly the child or young person, are maintained with the highest regard. The process includes not only the thorough investigation of the allegation but also appropriate follow-up actions to ensure the ongoing safety and well-being of the child or young person. Furthermore, we are committed to providing support and resources to all individuals affected during and following the conclusion of the investigation.

6.4 Monitoring Communications for Safety

We implement a system to monitor communications between staff, students, parents, and tutors. This proactive approach enables early detection and prevention of potential safeguarding issues. All communications are monitored by privacy and data protection laws, ensuring a balance between safety and individual rights.

7. Safe Practice Guidelines

7.1 Ensuring a Safe Learning Environment

TheUKCATPeople is dedicated to creating and maintaining a learning environment that is not only conducive to education but also prioritises the safety and well-being of every participant. This commitment extends to all activities and lessons, whether conducted in person or online. We ensure that our physical environments adhere to the highest safety standards, including regular risk assessments and safety audits. Our learning spaces are designed to be welcoming, secure, and conducive to a positive educational experience.

7.2 Vigilance in Online Safety

In our digital interactions, TheUKCATPeople mandates the use of officially sanctioned platforms, ensuring that all online sessions are conducted within a secure and controlled digital environment. Tutors are required to adhere to professional standards in these sessions, and all online activities are recorded and monitored for quality assurance and safety. This also includes regular reviews of our digital safety protocols and the incorporation of the latest cybersecurity measures to protect the privacy and integrity of our online sessions.

7.3 Systematic Allegations Monitoring

TheUKCATPeople keeps detailed records of all allegations concerning safeguarding. These records are used to inform training programmes and policy improvements. This systematic approach ensures that we learn from each incident and continually strengthen our safeguarding practices.

8. Child Protection Procedures

8.1 Proactive Identification of Risks

Our staff and tutors are not only educated but are also regularly updated on how to identify signs of abuse or neglect. This training encompasses recognising subtle changes in behaviour, physical indications such as unexplained injuries, and the significance of verbal disclosures that may indicate potential harm. We foster an environment where children feel safe to express concerns, and our staff are skilled in employing age-appropriate communication strategies to facilitate this.

8.2 Immediate Action and Referral Protocol

At TheUKCATPeople, any concern related to a child’s welfare is treated with immediacy and seriousness. Concerns are promptly escalated to our designated safeguarding lead, who is trained in evaluating and responding to such situations. In scenarios where a child is perceived to be in immediate danger, our policy mandates an urgent response, including contacting emergency services. This approach ensures that no concern is overlooked and that every child’s safety is paramount.

8.3 Comprehensive Support and Follow-Up

Following any incident or identification of risk, we are committed to providing holistic support to the affected child or young person. This support includes but is not limited to, referrals to specialised child protection services and collaboration with relevant agencies to ensure a coordinated care approach. We also focus on the long-term well-being of the child, offering ongoing support and monitoring to ensure their continued safety and recovery. This comprehensive support mechanism is a testament to our unwavering commitment to the welfare of every child under our care.

9. Training and Awareness

9.1 Comprehensive and Continuous Training

TheUKCATPeople is committed to ensuring that all staff and tutors receive thorough and ongoing training in safeguarding and child protection. This training, which encompasses current legal standards and best practices, is not only provided annually but also updated to reflect any significant changes in legislation or emerging safeguarding techniques. This commitment to continual learning ensures that our team remains at the forefront of safeguarding expertise.

9.2 Enhancing Awareness

We conduct sessions aimed at reinforcing the awareness of safeguarding principles among our staff and tutors. These sessions are designed to foster a deep understanding of the importance of safeguarding and ensure all team members are conversant with the latest practices and procedures. This ongoing education serves to reinforce a culture of vigilance and proactive care within TheUKCATPeople.

9.3 Safeguarding Governance and Accountability

We define specific roles and responsibilities for safeguarding governance, including appointing a designated safeguarding lead. This role is responsible for overseeing all safeguarding issues and ensuring compliance with our policy, adding clarity and accountability to our safeguarding efforts.

10. Confidentiality and Information Sharing

10.1 Rigorous Data Protection

In line with the Data Protection Act 2018, TheUKCATPeople adheres to stringent protocols for managing the personal information of students and staff. Our approach to data handling is governed by principles of confidentiality and necessity, ensuring that information is shared solely on a need-to-know basis and always in alignment with safeguarding procedures.

10.2 Strategic Information Sharing

We have established clear and strategic protocols for sharing information with external agencies. This framework ensures that our actions in response to safeguarding concerns are not only coordinated but also comply with legal and ethical standards, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of our safeguarding efforts.

11. Monitoring and Review

11.1 Diligent Policy Review

Our safeguarding policy undergoes a thorough review annually or in the wake of significant incidents. This process ensures that the policy remains effective and fully aligned with evolving safeguarding legislation and best practices.

11.2 Embracing Feedback for Improvement

TheUKCATPeople actively seeks and values feedback from students, parents, staff, and tutors. This feedback is integral to our process of continual improvement, ensuring that our safeguarding practices are responsive to the needs of our community.

11.3 Ongoing Policy Review and Updating

We commit to a full annual review of our safeguarding policy and ongoing smaller updates as needed. This ensures that our policy remains effective, relevant, and aligned with the latest safeguarding legislation, best practices, and societal changes.

12. Whistleblowing

12.1 Promoting a Culture of Transparency

We encourage and support all staff and tutors to report any concerns regarding unsafe practices or potential breaches of our safeguarding policy. This emphasis on transparency is fundamental to maintaining the integrity of our safeguarding efforts.

12.2 Robust Protection for Whistleblowers

TheUKCATPeople has instituted robust procedures to protect whistleblowers, ensuring their concerns are addressed seriously and their identity and welfare are safeguarded. This policy is critical in fostering an environment where staff can report concerns without fear of reprisal or detriment.

12.3 Compliance and Disciplinary Actions

The policy clearly states the requirements for compliance with our safeguarding measures and outlines potential disciplinary actions for breaches. This ensures that all staff and tutors understand the consequences of non-compliance, reinforcing the seriousness with which we treat safeguarding.

13. Allegations Against Staff

13.1 Prompt and Equitable Response to Allegations

At TheUKCATPeople, we maintain an unwavering commitment to addressing all allegations against staff or tutors with immediate and unbiased attention. Upon receiving an allegation, our response is swift, ensuring no delay in addressing potential risks.

Our investigation process is meticulously structured to uphold fairness and integrity, adhering strictly to our well-established protocols. This approach ensures that investigations are not only thorough but are also conducted in a manner that respects the rights of all individuals involved. The process is overseen by trained professionals who are adept at handling sensitive situations, ensuring that every allegation is treated with the seriousness and discretion it warrants.

13.2 Policy on Neutral Suspension

In situations where the nature of the allegation necessitates, TheUKCATPeople may implement a suspension of the individual involved. This suspension is a precautionary measure, employed solely to safeguard the welfare of children and other parties during the investigative process.

It is imperative to note that such a suspension is not an indication of the individual’s guilt or a prejudgment of the case's outcome. Rather, it is a neutral act, undertaken in the interests of safety and to maintain the integrity of the investigation. During this period, the suspended individual will be supported appropriately, and their rights and dignity will be respected. The decision to suspend is made judiciously, considering the specific circumstances of each case, and is not a default response to an allegation.

14. Partnership with Parents and Carers

14.1 Enhanced Collaborative Involvement

At TheUKCATPeople, we recognise parents and carers as pivotal allies in our safeguarding endeavours. Our approach is grounded in fostering a transparent and proactive partnership with them. We actively engage in open, continuous communication to ensure that they are not just informed but are also active participants in matters related to their child’s safety and well-being.

This collaborative involvement is facilitated through regular updates, dedicated communication channels, and opportunities for parents and carers to voice their concerns and insights, which are integral to our safeguarding processes.

14.2 Empowering Parents and Carers with Resources and Support

Understanding the crucial role of parents and carers in safeguarding, TheUKCATPeople is committed to empowering them with a wealth of resources and comprehensive information about our safeguarding policies and procedures.

This commitment includes providing accessible, clear, and relevant materials that help parents and carers understand the nuances of safeguarding, recognise potential risks, and know the appropriate steps to take in safeguarding scenarios. We also offer workshops, informational sessions, and guidance materials designed to enhance their ability to contribute effectively to the safeguarding process. This effort is a testament to our dedication to building a robust, community-driven safeguarding culture, where responsibility for child protection is shared and supported across our network of families and caregivers.

15. Inclusion and Diversity in Safeguarding

15.1 Commitment to Inclusive Practices

TheUKCATPeople is dedicated to ensuring that our safeguarding practices are inclusive and respectful of the diversity of the children, families, and staff we work with. This includes recognising and accommodating the varied cultural, linguistic, and religious backgrounds of our community, as well as being sensitive to the needs of children with disabilities or special educational needs. Our staff receives training to understand and address the unique vulnerabilities that can arise from these diversities.

15.2 Anti-Discrimination Policy

Our safeguarding approach is firmly rooted in the principles of equality and non-discrimination. We ensure that all children, regardless of their background, have equal access to protection and support. We are committed to identifying and removing any barriers that could prevent children from receiving the full benefits of our safeguarding measures.

16. Peer-on-Peer Abuse

16.1 Comprehensive Strategy Against Peer-on-Peer Abuse

TheUKCATPeople recognises the critical need to address peer-on-peer abuse, which includes bullying, harassment, and other forms of interpersonal harm among children. Our strategy encompasses extensive training for staff to recognise and intervene in such instances effectively. We have developed a robust curriculum to educate children about respectful interactions, empathy, and the importance of boundaries. This is complemented by proactive monitoring strategies and a school culture that discourages any form of peer abuse and encourages students to report concerns.

16.2 Holistic Support Framework

Our approach to addressing peer-on-peer abuse is holistic and restorative. We focus on understanding the root causes and providing targeted support to both the victim and the perpetrator. For victims, we offer counselling and ongoing support to ensure their well-being and resilience. For perpetrators, our interventions include behavioural counselling and educational programs to foster an understanding of the consequences of their actions and to promote positive behaviour changes. This dual-focused approach aims to heal and educate, preventing recurrence and fostering a safe and respectful learning environment.

17. Safe Recruitment Practices

17.1 Meticulous and Proactive Recruitment Measures

TheUKCATPeople prioritises the highest standards of safeguarding right from the start of our staff and tutor recruitment process. Our approach is both meticulous and proactive, designed to serve as a robust first line of defence in safeguarding. We conduct a comprehensive screening process for all potential staff and tutors, which includes mandatory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks. This is to ensure that no individual with a known history of harmful behaviour or offences is employed in any capacity.

Every prospective tutor undergoes a rigorous video interview, allowing us to assess not only their skills and qualifications but also their attitudes and motivations towards child safety. During these interviews, we pay close attention to how candidates interact and communicate, looking for traits that align with our safeguarding ethos. We also require candidates to provide tangible evidence of their experience working with children. This could be in the form of professional references, testimonials, or records of previous employment in educational or childcare settings.

Furthermore, candidates are asked to provide professional references which are checked to confirm their suitability and integrity in working with children. These references are a critical part of our vetting process, ensuring that we gain a comprehensive understanding of the candidate's past conduct and performance in roles involving children. For tutors, who sometimes do not have explicit working experience, a history of working with young people in a supervised setting is required.

Additionally, all prospective tutors and staff are required to sign and adhere to TheUKCATPeople's Code of Conduct. This code clearly outlines our expectations regarding behaviour, interaction with students, and overall conduct within our educational environment. By signing this, they commit to upholding the principles and standards we set for ensuring the safety and well-being of all students.

17.2 Dynamic Staff Suitability Reviews

Recognising that safeguarding is an ongoing responsibility, we conduct dynamic and thorough suitability reviews of our staff and tutors. These reviews extend beyond routine checks; they include a detailed evaluation of staff interactions with students, feedback from our school community, and a vigilant eye on any changes in personal circumstances that might affect their ability to work safely with children.

Staff members are also required to participate in regular safeguarding refresher courses and professional development programs. These programs ensure that their knowledge and skills in safeguarding remain up-to-date with the latest best practices and legal requirements. Our commitment to continuous professional development in safeguarding is a cornerstone of our strategy to maintain the highest standards of care and protection for the children and young people we serve.

In summary, TheUKCATPeople's approach to recruitment and ongoing staff assessment is designed to create a safe and supportive learning environment. Through these rigorous and proactive measures, we affirm our unwavering commitment to safeguarding every student under our care.

17.2 Dynamic Staff Suitability Reviews

18. Online Tutoring Specific Safeguarding

18.1 Safeguarding in Online Tutoring Contexts

TheUKCATPeople recognises the unique challenges of online tutoring and has established specific guidelines to ensure robust safeguarding in this setting. Our policy mandates clear protocols for communication between tutors and students, emphasising respectful and professional interactions. We have zero tolerance for cyberbullying, inappropriate conversations, and any form of digital misconduct. Tutors are trained to foster a safe online environment, and students are educated about responsible digital behaviour and how to report any concerns.

18.2 Use of Technology for Safeguarding

To enhance safeguarding in online tutoring, TheUKCATPeople utilises advanced technology effectively. This includes secure, monitored communication platforms that ensure privacy and safety. We employ software tools that flag inappropriate language or images and have systems in place to record and store online sessions, not for surveillance but as a safeguarding measure. These recordings are kept securely and are only accessed if a safeguarding concern arises, ensuring a balance between safety and privacy.

18.3 Tutor Requirements

All TheUKCATPeople Tutors are required to:

Observe and comply with TheUKCATPeople's Code of Conduct.
Undergo specific training in online safety and digital communication, especially for tutors involved in online tutoring, to ensure a safe and respectful digital environment for students.
Attend all relevant training and development provided by TheUKCATPeople, including refresher courses to stay updated with the latest safeguarding practices and legislative changes.
Report any disclosures of abuse or concerns directly to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) as soon as possible. The DSL is responsible for ensuring that appropriate actions are taken to protect the child.
Be equipped to handle disclosures of self-harm, suicidal thoughts, suicide attempts, overdosing, or eating disorders, and promptly report these to the DSL.
Report any concerns about the conduct of other staff members towards children, ensuring a clear understanding of the reporting procedures and channels for such incidents.
Remain vigilant for signs of harm and abuse, including issues of peer-on-peer abuse, and follow the Child Protection Procedures outlined in this policy.
Know the Designated Safeguarding Lead’s name and contact details for effective communication in case of safeguarding concerns.
Be aware of and engage in the early help process, which includes identifying emerging problems, liaising with the DSL, and sharing information with other professionals for early identification and assessment.

19. Guidelines for One-to-One Tutoring

19.1 Safety in One-to-One Sessions

In one-to-one tutoring scenarios, TheUKCATPeople implements stringent safety guidelines. Sessions, whether online or in-person, are conducted in transparent settings. For in-person sessions, they are held in open and observable locations. Online sessions are conducted on secure platforms, and parents/carers are encouraged to be aware of the tutoring schedule. In both cases, the emphasis is on creating an environment where the student feels safe and comfortable.

19.2 Boundaries and Conduct

Clear boundaries are set for behaviour and interactions during one-to-one sessions. Tutors are trained on maintaining professional conduct, including appropriate conversation topics and, in in-person settings, understanding and respecting physical boundaries. Regular training ensures tutors are aware of their responsibilities and the importance of maintaining a professional and safe environment for every student.

20. Prevent and Anti-Radicalisation Measures

20.1 Introduction to Prevent and Anti-Radicalisation

At TheUKCATPeople, we recognise the importance of safeguarding young people from extremist ideologies and the risks of radicalisation. Our policy is developed to provide a safe learning environment, free from the influences of extremism and terrorism.

20.2 Understanding Radicalisation

Radicalisation refers to the process by which individuals come to support terrorism and extremist ideologies. We understand that this can happen to anyone and can be influenced by a range of factors including peer pressure, social media, and family members. Recognising these signs early is key to prevention.

20.3 Identifying Vulnerabilities

We are committed to identifying students who may be vulnerable to radicalisation. Indicators may include noticeable changes in behaviour, advocacy of extremist views, or expressions of sympathy for extremist causes. While these signs do not necessarily mean a student is being radicalised, they will prompt a thoughtful and measured response.

20.4 Response to Identified Concerns

In cases where there is a concern about a student’s potential involvement in radicalisation:

The concern should be immediately reported to the designated safeguarding lead.

The safeguarding lead will assess the situation and, if necessary, seek further advice from local authority safeguarding partners or the Prevent lead in the area.

If there is an imminent risk of harm to the student or others, the situation will be reported to law enforcement as part of our duty of care.

20.5 Promoting a Positive Learning Environment

Our educational approach and curriculum are designed to promote respect, tolerance, and understanding. We encourage critical thinking and open discussion about a range of topics, including the dangers of extremism.

20.6 Working with External Partners

Where necessary, we will engage with external agencies, such as local community support groups or law enforcement, to seek advice or to refer cases. This engagement is always conducted in a manner that respects the confidentiality and welfare of the student.

20.7 Review of Policy

This policy will be reviewed annually or in response to specific incidents or new threats. This ensures that our approach remains effective and relevant to the ever-changing nature of radicalisation and extremism.

21. Handling and Reporting Safeguarding Concerns

21.1 Procedure for Reporting Concerns

TheUKCATPeople has established detailed procedures for reporting safeguarding concerns within the tutoring context. This includes designated personnel to whom concerns should be reported, clear channels for reporting (including anonymous options), and a step-by-step guide on the subsequent actions. These procedures are communicated to all staff, tutors, and students, ensuring everyone knows how to raise concerns.

21.2 Responding to Disclosures

Our staff and tutors are trained on how to respond sensitively and appropriately if a child discloses abuse or a safeguarding concern. This training includes active listening techniques, ways to reassure the child without making promises about confidentiality that can't be kept, and immediate steps to ensure the child's safety. All disclosures are taken seriously, and the response is coordinated with our safeguarding lead to ensure proper support and follow-up.

22. Roles and Responsibilities in Safeguarding

22.1 - Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

TheUKCATPeople's safeguarding framework is supported by a clear structure of roles and responsibilities, ensuring effective implementation and adherence to our safeguarding policy. Central to this structure is the role of the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), currently held by Dr. Akash Gandhi. Dr. Gandhi's primary responsibility is to serve as the first point of contact for all safeguarding concerns within our organisation. He oversees the implementation of the safeguarding policy, ensuring compliance with both legal requirements and best practice guidelines. His duties include coordinating training and awareness programs, providing support to staff handling safeguarding concerns, liaising with external agencies, maintaining confidential records, and regularly reviewing safeguarding policies.

22.2 - Tutors & Staff

Our tutors and staff play a vital role in safeguarding at TheUKCATPeople. They are required to understand and adhere to the safeguarding policy, attending regular training sessions facilitated by Dr Gandhi or external experts. It is their responsibility to report any concerns about a student’s welfare directly to the DSL. They are expected to maintain a safe and supportive environment for students and to be vigilant in identifying signs of abuse or neglect, acting always in the best interest of the student’s safety and well-being.

22.3 Students & Parents

We also engage students and parents in our safeguarding efforts. They are encouraged to be aware of our safeguarding policy and are invited to report any concerns to the DSL or any trusted member of staff. We value feedback from students and parents regarding safeguarding, which is considered in our policy reviews.

The safeguarding policy is subject to an annual review or following significant incidents or changes in legislation.

We regularly evaluate the effectiveness of this policy, seeking input from staff, tutors, students, and parents. TheUKCATPeople is committed to maintaining transparency and accountability in all matters related to safeguarding, ensuring the highest standards are upheld in the protection and welfare of the children and young people under our care.