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Check whether safer recruitment is followed Safer recruitment is vital because it minimises the likelihood of those who may be vulnerable being harmed by those in positions of trust. Leaders, workers, and those holding a variety of other positions should undergo a thorough recruitment process. Consider:
• Are self-declaration forms being completed by those applying to work with children or adults at risk, and those who are in positions of trust (including trustees) detailing any cautions, convictions and any other criminal history.
• Are job descriptions being prepared and advertised (paid and volunteers).
• Are references being obtained?
• Are job applications being completed giving details of previous experience, qualifications, referees and any other supporting information.
Every organisation that is in contact with, or provides services for children, young people or adults with care and support needs must be able to respond appropriately to concerns or allegations of abuse. Consider:
• Do all workers know how to respond to an allegation of abuse made by a third party
• Does the Safeguarding Coordinator and Deputy know how to respond where there are concerns or allegations of abuse
• Do workers know how to respond where there is an allegation against a worker.
• Are criminal record checks being carried out where relevant?
Consider Pastoral Care Each organisation that is open to activities for children, young people and adults, should ensure pastoral care and support is available to all those affected by abuse. • There are people within the organisation who are trained in pastoral care, understand confidentiality, accountability, and have listening skills and are available to those who wish to talk. • The organisation recognises the difference between counselling and pastoral care including that counsellors must be appropriately qualified.
See that safeguarding is being communicated Your organisation should ensure that all those involved with children, young people and safeguarding adults know how to communicate effectively and relate to those with whom they come into contact. Consider:
• Do all workers know how to safely communicate including online?
• The organisation has ensured there is confidentiality and accountability for those in the counselling / pastoral care roles.
• Have workers been trained and equipped to communicate effectively with those with special needs and disabilities.
• Are all workers aware and informed about lines of communication and know when and who to report concerns to.
• There are clear guidelines and boundaries for all providing pastoral care. All pastoral carers know how to respond to concerns
Are workers trained in listening and communicating?
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• Is there clear communication with external agencies including statutory safeguarding bodies.
• Do all workers know the reasons for not contacting the parent /carer or alleged abuser and act accordingly.
• Are applicants – including volunteers – being interviewed?
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Check that all workers know how to respond
of abuse and have a clearly defined role which is conveyed to the person receiving the pastoral care. • Organisations understand the impact on families and ensure that practical help is provided for those affected by abuse, particularly where there is a formal investigation. • There is an understanding throughout the organisation and an appropriate response to the effects of physical, sexual, emotional abuse and neglect, as well as spiritual abuse. Finally, say Thank You to all your workers and volunteers. It’s been a tough, emotional time for everyone and those people who have worked faithfully through this time deserve praise, thanks and encouragement and every possible opportunity.
hirtyone:eight provide advice and guidance on conducting a self-audit. We also offer one or twohour bespoke Advice Surgeries that will help with any questions you have about safeguarding. Advice surgeries are for organisations that would like to spend some focused time with one of our experienced team of advisors discussing the safeguarding, safer recruitment or DBS issues that are specifically impacting your organisation. They usually last between 1-2 hours and can be done by telephone, video meeting, or face-to-face. Advice surgeries (thirtyoneeight.org)
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