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Full Safeguarding Policy (SCIO)

Safeguarding Policy

Soul of the Junction SCIO

Charity Number: SC053656
Adopted: 09.01.2026
Review date: 08.01.2027

1. Policy statement

Soul of the Junction SCIO is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. We believe everyone has the right to feel safe, respected and protected from harm.

We recognise our responsibility to take all reasonable steps to prevent harm, abuse or neglect and to respond appropriately if concerns arise.

Safeguarding is a shared responsibility across trustees, staff, volunteers and partners.

2. Scope of the policy

This policy applies to:

  • Trustees

  • Staff and volunteers

  • Contractors and session facilitators

  • Partner organisations working with us

It covers all activities delivered by Soul of the Junction SCIO, including:

  • Community events and workshops

  • Children’s and family activities

  • Sensory rooms and soft play

  • Cinema screenings and outdoor events

  • Online and digital engagement

3. Legal framework

This policy is informed by relevant legislation and guidance, including:

  • Children and Young People (Scotland) Act 2014

  • Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act 2007

  • National Guidance for Child Protection in Scotland

  • Adult Support and Protection (Scotland) Act 2007

  • UK GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018

4. Definitions

Child / Young Person:
Anyone under the age of 18.

Vulnerable Adult:
An adult who may be unable to safeguard themselves due to disability, illness, age, mental health or other circumstances.

Safeguarding:
Actions taken to protect individuals from abuse, harm or neglect.

5. Principles

Soul of the Junction SCIO is guided by the following principles:

  • The welfare of the individual is paramount

  • All concerns are taken seriously and acted upon

  • Safeguarding responses are timely, proportionate and confidential

  • Everyone is treated with respect, dignity and fairness

6. Roles and responsibilities

Trustees

The Board of Trustees has overall responsibility for safeguarding and ensures that:

  • This policy is implemented and reviewed

  • Adequate procedures are in place

  • Safeguarding is embedded in organisational culture

Safeguarding Lead

The Trustees appoint a Safeguarding Lead responsible for:

  • Receiving safeguarding concerns

  • Ensuring appropriate action is taken

  • Liaising with statutory agencies where required

(Contact details held internally and available on request.)

Staff & Volunteers

All staff and volunteers must:

  • Read and follow this policy

  • Report any safeguarding concerns immediately

  • Act in a manner that protects themselves and others

7. Safer recruitment & PVG

Where roles involve regular or unsupervised contact with children or vulnerable adults:

  • PVG checks will be carried out in line with legislation

  • References may be requested

  • Roles and responsibilities will be clearly defined

8. Code of conduct

All adults involved with Soul of the Junction SCIO must:

  • Treat everyone with respect

  • Maintain appropriate professional boundaries

  • Avoid situations where they are alone with a child unless authorised

  • Not engage in physical, verbal or emotional behaviour that could be misinterpreted

  • Never tolerate abuse, discrimination or bullying

9. Recognising abuse

Abuse may include (but is not limited to):

  • Physical abuse

  • Emotional or psychological abuse

  • Sexual abuse

  • Neglect

  • Financial abuse (adults)

  • Online or digital abuse

10. Responding to concerns

If a safeguarding concern arises:

  1. Listen calmly and take it seriously

  2. Do not promise confidentiality

  3. Record facts accurately

  4. Report immediately to the Safeguarding Lead

If there is immediate danger, emergency services will be contacted.

Appropriate referrals will be made to:

  • Social Work

  • Police Scotland

  • Local safeguarding authorities

11. Confidentiality & data protection

Safeguarding information is:

  • Shared only on a need-to-know basis

  • Stored securely

  • Handled in line with UK GDPR

12. Photography & media

Photographs or recordings of children or vulnerable adults:

  • Require clear consent

  • Are used respectfully and safely

  • Will never be used in a way that compromises dignity or safety

13. Training & awareness

Soul of the Junction SCIO ensures that:

  • Trustees and volunteers understand safeguarding responsibilities

  • Safeguarding is discussed regularly

  • Training is accessed where appropriate

14. Review & monitoring

This policy is:

  • Reviewed annually or sooner if required

  • Updated following changes in legislation or organisational activity

15. Contact

Safeguarding concerns should be reported to:

📧 soulofthejunction@gmail.com

Concerns will be handled sensitively, confidentially and without delay.

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