Safeguarding Policy

1. Our Commitment to Safeguarding

Stable Minds CIC and Stable Minds CYP CIC are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. Safeguarding is central to our work, and we take our responsibility to protect those who access our services seriously.

We are committed to creating a safe, supportive, and respectful environment where people feel listened to, believed, and protected.

Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility.

2. Scope of This Policy

This policy applies to:

• All clients accessing our services
• All counsellors (paid, volunteer, or placement)
• All staff, contractors, trustees, and anyone working on behalf of Stable Minds CIC or Stable Minds CYP CIC

This policy applies across all services, settings, and delivery methods, including face-to-face, online, community, and outreach work.

3. What We Mean by Safeguarding

Safeguarding means protecting people from abuse, neglect, exploitation, and harm, and promoting their wellbeing.

This includes safeguarding in relation to:

• Children and young people
• Vulnerable adults
• Emotional, physical, sexual, financial, and psychological abuse
• Neglect
• Domestic abuse
• Exploitation
• Self-harm and suicide risk
• Professional boundaries and unsafe practice

4. Safeguarding Principles

Our safeguarding practice is guided by the following principles:

• The welfare of the individual is paramount
• Everyone has the right to live free from abuse and harm
• Safeguarding concerns are taken seriously and acted upon
• Action taken will be proportionate and appropriate
• The voice and lived experience of the individual are respected
• Safeguarding decisions are made by trained safeguarding leads
• Confidentiality is respected but not absolute

5. Confidentiality and Safeguarding

We are clear from the outset of our work that confidentiality has limits.

Information may be shared without consent where:

• There is a risk of serious harm to the individual or others
• A safeguarding concern is identified
• Disclosure is required by law

Any decision to share information is made carefully, proportionately, and in line with safeguarding and legal requirements.

6. Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSLs)

Stable Minds has trained Designated Safeguarding Leads who are responsible for managing safeguarding concerns and decisions.

Only trained Designated Safeguarding Leads are responsible for safeguarding decision-making.

Other staff members may receive concerns but must pass them immediately to a DSL.

7. Responding to Safeguarding Concerns

If a safeguarding concern is identified:

• The concern is taken seriously
• Immediate risk is prioritised
• The concern is reported to a Designated Safeguarding Lead
• Appropriate action is taken, which may include external referral

Where there is an immediate risk of harm, emergency services will be contacted.

Safeguarding concerns are recorded and managed in line with our internal safeguarding procedures and legal obligations.

8. Safer Recruitment and Training

Stable Minds is committed to safer recruitment practices.

All counsellors and staff working with children, young people, or vulnerable adults are required to:

• Hold appropriate DBS clearance
• Provide references where required
• Complete safeguarding training relevant to their role
• Engage in supervision that includes safeguarding discussion

Safeguarding training is refreshed regularly.

9. Allegations or Concerns About Staff or Counsellors

Any concerns or allegations about the conduct or practice of staff, counsellors, or volunteers are taken seriously and managed through appropriate safeguarding and investigatory processes.

Where necessary, concerns may be escalated to external safeguarding agencies or professional bodies.

10. Governance and Review

This safeguarding policy:

• Is reviewed regularly
• Is supported by internal safeguarding procedures and reporting systems
• Reflects current safeguarding legislation, guidance, and professional standards

Safeguarding governance is overseen by the Directors of Stable Minds CIC and Stable Minds CYP CIC.

11. Reporting a Safeguarding Concern