SAFEGUARDING POLICY
for the Charity "UNBOUND Deliverance Ministry Training and Events UK"

APPENDIX 1

 

Legislation, Guidance and Canon Law - Main Points

1. Children Act 1989

The current child protection system in England is grounded in the Children Act 1989.  The Act establishes a number of key principles, including

• the paramount nature of the child’s welfare

● protection and provision

• the concept of parental responsibility.

• that children are best looked after by their family unless intervention in family life is essential.

 

The Act places a general duty on local authorities to promote and safeguard the welfare of

children in need in their area by providing a range of services appropriate to those children’s

needs. It additionally sets out what a local authority must do when it has reasonable cause to

suspect that a child in its area is suffering, or is likely to suffer significant harm.

 

2. Children Act 2004

This Act places a duty on:

● local authorities in England to make arrangements to promote cooperation with key partners and local agencies, with a view to improving the well-being of children in the authority’s area.

● a range of agencies, including local authorities, the police and health services, to ensure that they consider the need to safeguard and promote the welfare of children when carrying out their functions.

 

3. Children and Social Work Act 2017

This Act amended the Children Act 2004 to replace LSCBs with new local arrangements for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.

 

There are now three safeguarding partners - the local authority, NHS Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs), and police forces. They are responsible for determining how safeguarding arrangements should work in their area for them and relevant agencies. “Relevant agencies” is a term used for all bodies and groups within an area which play a crucial role in coordinating the safeguarding and welfare of children. Regulations specify the relevant agencies that safeguarding partners may choose to work with, these will include Faith based services, charities and voluntary groups, for UNBOUND UK this will apply through the local diocese and the National CSSA.

 

4. Working Together to Safeguard Children Act 2020

Provides statutory guidance for all agencies working with children and young people. Statutory, voluntary, charity, social enterprise, faith-based organisations and private sectors play an important role in safeguarding children through the services they deliver. Some of these will work with particular communities, with different races and faith communities and delivering in health, adult social care, housing, prisons and probation services. They may, as part of their work, provide a wide range of activities for children and have an important role in safeguarding children and supporting families and communities. Like other organisations and agencies who work with children, they should have appropriate arrangements in place to safeguard and protect children from harm. 

 

Many of these organisations and agencies as well as many schools, children’s centres, early years and childcare organisations, will be subject to charity law and regulated either by the Charity Commission and/or other “principal” regulators.  Charity trustees are responsible to ensure that reasonable steps are in place so that those benefiting from, or working with their charity, are not harmed in any way through contact with its services.

 

All practitioners working in these organisations and agencies who are working with children and their families are subject to the same safeguarding responsibilities, whether paid or a volunteer.  The guidance document can be downloaded here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publica9ons/working-together-to-safeguard-children--2

 

 5.Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006

This Act provides the framework for the disclosure and barring service and influences safer recruitment.  It explains regulated activity and provides guidance on levels of DBS checks needed for job roles.

 

 6. Sexual Offences 2003

This Act makes provision about sexual offences, their prevention and the protection of children from harm from other sexual acts, and for connected purposes. It introduces the concept of a Position of Trust - anyone in statutory services providing a service to a Child is not to have a sexual relationship with them. This would constitute a breach of trust and is a criminal offence.  There are many roles which are not legally defined as being positions of trust, such as swimming coaches, faith group leaders or people running community activities for children. This means it's not currently against the law for people in these roles to have a

sexual relationship with a 16 or 17 year-old in their care.

 

 

 

7. Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022

This Act recognises that young people in sporting and religious situations are more than usually vulnerable to abuse. As a result, and as recommended by the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA) and various sporting bodies, the ban on sexual relations with children aged 16 and 17 and adults in the teaching and caring professions is extended to include sports coaches and religious mentors.

 

8 The Care Act 2014

This Act applies to safeguarding Vulnerable Adults. It makes provision to reform the law relating to care and support for adults and the law relating to support for carers; to make provision about safeguarding adults from abuse or neglect; to make provision about care standards; to establish and make provision about Health Education England; to establish and make provision about the Health Research Authority; to make provision about integrating care and support with health services; and for connected purposes.

 

It defines Vulnerable Adults and provides for children transitioning to adulthood who may be vulnerable

 

9 Data Protection Act 2018

The Data Protection Act 2018 brought the EU's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) into UK law. It governs personal data rights, including the way personal data is handled and the management of breaches to personal data.

 

It is under the GDP regulations that handling of sensitive personal information is managed- and allows for the sharing of information pertaining to safeguarding.

The principles to managing information:

● Lawfulness, fairness and transparency

● Purpose limitation

● Data minimisation

● Accuracy

● Storage limitation

● Integrity and confidentiality (security)

● Accountability

 

The three circumstances which make disclosure of confidential information, without consent, lawful are:

● where the individual to whom the information relates has consented

● where UNBOUND UK considers it may be necessary to safeguard the individual, or others, or is in the public interest.

● where there is a legal duty to do so, for example a court order.

 

10. Care and Support Statutory Guidance 2018 – Adults at Risk

This guidance identifies adults at risk; those who are vulnerable and unable to protect themselves.  The concept of adult at risk is noted when a person who is vulnerable cannot protect themselves.  A person aged 18 or over whose ability to protect themselves from violence, abuse or neglect or exploitation is significantly impaired through physical or mental disability or illness, old age, emotional fragility or distress or otherwise; for that purpose, the reference to being impaired is being temporarily or indefinitely impaired.

 

The guidance document can be downloaded here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publica9ons/care-act-statutory-guidance/care-and-support-statutory-guidance

 

11. Charity Commission Guidance

This guidance requires all voluntary organisations to establish good safeguarding policies and procedures that all trustees, staff and volunteers follow, which fit with the policies and procedures of your local authority safeguarding partner or safeguarding adults board.

 

The guidance also states that arrangements must be in place to make sure all staff and volunteers receive regular training on child protection or working with adults at risk.

 

The board must appoint a safeguarding lead to work with your local authority safeguarding boards and/or create a plan for responding to concerns overseas manage concerns, complaints, whistleblowing and allegations relating to child protection or adults at risk effectively, have clear policies on when DBS checks are required, and how you handle the information.

 

The guidance document can be downloaded here:

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/safeguarding-duties-for-charity-trustees

You must follow relevant legislation and guidance.

 

12. Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agencies 

These agencies are responsible for audit and review and quality assurance of Catholic church services, communication with stakeholders, setting and monitoring compliance with standards, training, case consultation and case review. 

 

This will be the body that will advise on policy and procedure and will follow the footsteps of CSAS with providing One Church Guidance responsible for audit and review and quality assurance of Catholic church services, Communicationwith stakeholders, setting and  monitoring compliance with standards, training, case consultation and case review. This will be the body that will advise on policy and procedure and will follow the footsteps of CSAS with providing One Church Guidance

https://www.catholicsafeguardingproject.org/catholic-safeguarding-standards-age

 

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APPENDIX 2

 

Roles and responsibilities of Safeguarding appointed individuals: 

UNBOUND UK has nominated specific people at different levels of the structure in the organisation to have safeguarding responsibility.

 

1. Trustee Board Level

The board of trustees will have an allocated safeguarding trustee and a deputy safeguarding trustee.

The role of the safeguarding trustee lead is:

● Consider the organisation’s strategic plans and make sure they reflect safeguarding

legislation, regulations specific to UNBOUND UK activities, statutory guidance, and the safeguarding expectations of the Charities Commission.

● Be responsible for all safeguarding governance, management and performance as guided by the Chair of the Board.

● Check the organisation’s risk register reflects safeguarding risks properly and plans sensible

measures to take, including relevant insurance for organisational liability.

● To ensure that safeguarding is maintained as a priority for the board of trustees.

● To ensure that safeguarding is a standing agenda item and safeguarding activity is included in management reports to the board.

● To ensure that the Chair of Trustees  and Safeguarding lead implement UNBOUND UK safeguarding policy.

● Oversee safeguarding allegations UNBOUND Team Members, together with The Chair Of Trustees and designated safeguarding officer.

• To provide safeguarding supervision to the The Chair of Trustees

• To ensure that a serious incident is reported reflecting UNBOUND UK protocol to appropriate accountable bodies such as the Charities Commission, donors and other relevant regulatory bodies.

● Be a point of contact for staff or volunteers if someone wishes to complain about a lack of action in relation to safeguarding concerns.

● Champion safeguarding throughout the organisation.

● Attend relevant safeguarding training events and conferences.

• Make sure there is an annual review of safeguarding policies and procedures and that this is reported to the trustees.

 

Role of the Designated Event Safeguarding Officer (DESO)

A safeguarding officer will be appointed for each event run by UNBOUND UK who has received mandatory safeguarding training. The role of the DESO is:

● To be familiar with the UNBOUND UK Safeguarding Policy

● To ensure that all UNBOUND Team Members are aware of the safeguarding policy.

● To be the first point of contact for reporting any safeguarding concerns about a Child or

Vulnerable Adult at events run by UNBOUND UK

● To consult with an appropriate person from UNBOUND UK present (or person of highest authority) to agree decisions in particular cases.

● To pass on any concerns within 24 hours to the DSL who will report as appropriate to the statutory bodies.

 

Role of the UNBOUND Team Members

All new UNBOUND Team Members will receive safeguarding training relevant to their role. They will sign a document to say they’ve read and understood the Safeguarding Policy. 

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APPENDIX 3

 

Child Abuse - Definitions, signs and indicators of abuse and neglect

Introduction

● Child abuse happens when a person harms a child. It can be physical, sexual or emotional,

but can also involve neglect. Children may be abused by: family members; friends; people working or volunteering in organisational or community settings; people they know;

strangers.

● Children experiencing abuse often experience more than one type of abuse over a period of time.

● Children who experience abuse may be afraid to tell anybody about the abuse. They may struggle with feelings of guilt, shame or confusion – particularly if the abuser is a parent, caregiver or other close family member or friend.

Many of the signs that a child is being abused are the same regardless of the type of abuse. Anyone

working with children or young people needs to be able to recognise the signs.

 

Category

Expanded Definition

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Physical Abuse

The deliberate use of physical force that results in bodily harm, injury, or impairment. This includes hitting, punching, kicking, slapping, burning, biting, shaking, choking, throwing, or using objects to cause pain or injury. Physical abuse may also involve excessive discipline that causes harm.

- Unexplained bruises, burns, fractures, or other injuries in various stages of healing 

- Fear of going home or fear of adults 

- Flinching when approached or sudden movements 

- Wearing long sleeves or clothing inappropriate for the weather to hide injuries 

- Aggressive behavior or extreme withdrawal 

- Reluctance to explain injuries or conflicting explanations from the child and caregiver

 

Emotional (Psychological) Abuse

Repeated behaviors or interactions that negatively impact a child's emotional development and self-worth. This includes verbal abuse (yelling, belittling, name-calling), constant criticism, rejection, threats, intimidation, isolation, ignoring a child's emotional needs, or exposing them to violence or inappropriate situations.

- Low self-esteem, excessive shyness, or withdrawal 

- Frequent anxiety, depression, or suicidal thoughts 

- Delayed emotional or social development 

- Extreme behavior (excessively aggressive or overly compliant) 

- Avoidance of certain people or situations 

- Constant feelings of worthlessness or being "not good enough" 

- Regressive behaviors (e.g., thumb-sucking, bedwetting) in older children

 

Sexual Abuse

Any form of sexual activity involving a child, whether through force, manipulation, coercion, or deception. This includes molestation, rape, incest, inappropriate touching, forcing a child to watch or participate in sexual acts, exposing a child to pornography, or child sexual exploitation and trafficking.

- Difficulty walking or sitting 

- Sudden changes in behavior, such as withdrawal or aggression 

- Knowledge of sexual behavior inappropriate for age 

- Fear of a specific person or place 

- Pain, bruising, or bleeding in the genital area 

- Sexually transmitted infections or pregnancy (especially in young children) 

- Nightmares, bedwetting, or sudden fear of being alone 

- Self-harm or suicidal thoughts

 

Neglect

The failure to provide for a child's fundamental needs, leading to harm or potential harm. This includes physical neglect (lack of food, clothing, shelter, hygiene, medical care), educational neglect (failure to enroll a child in school or ensure attendance), emotional neglect (lack of love, support, and attention), and supervisory neglect (leaving a child unsupervised in dangerous situations). 

 

Why it can be hard to identify: Neglect often happens over time rather than in a single event, making it less obvious than physical abuse. Signs of neglect can sometimes be mistaken for poverty or parenting differences. Additionally, a neglected child may not always outwardly display signs of distress, making it difficult for outsiders to recognize the issue.

 

- Poor hygiene, dirty or ill-fitting clothes 

- Consistently hungry or malnourished 

- Frequent absences from school, falling behind academically 

- Left unsupervised for long periods or in unsafe environments 

- Untreated medical conditions, frequent illnesses, or lack of vaccinations 

- Persistent tiredness or falling asleep in class 

- Engaging in risky behaviours to meet basic needs (e.g., stealing food)conditions, frequent illnesses, or lack of vaccinations 

- Persistent tiredness or falling asleep in class 

- Engaging in risky behaviours to meet basic needs (e.g., stealing food)

 

All the indicators in emotional abuse can apply to all forms of abuse. These signs do not necessarily mean that a child is being abused. There may well be other reasons for changes in a child’s behaviour such as a bereavement or relationship problems between parents or carers. If you have any concerns about a child’s wellbeing, you should report them following UNBOUND UK safeguarding procedures. 

 

2. Child abuse in specific circumstances

2.1. Abuse by peers

Young people, particularly those living away from home, are vulnerable to physical, sexual and emotional bullying and abuse by their peers. Such abuse should always be taken as seriously as abuse perpetrated by an adult. It is subject to the same safeguarding children procedures as apply in respect of any young person who is suffering or at risk of suffering significant harm from an adverse source. A significant proportion of sexual offences are committed by teenagers. UNBOUND Team Members should not dismiss some abusive sexual behaviour as “normal” between young people.

 

2.2. Bullying and cyberbullying 

Bullying is when individuals or groups seek to harm, intimidate or coerce someone who is perceived to be vulnerable. 

 

Bullying includes:

• verbal abuse, such as name calling

• non-verbal abuse, such as hand signs or glaring

• emotional abuse, such as threatening, intimidating or humiliating someone

• exclusion, such as ignoring or isolating someone

• undermining, by constant criticism or spreading rumours

• controlling or manipulating someone

• racial, sexual or homophobic bullying

• physical assaults, such as hitting and pushing

• making silent, hoax or abusive calls.

 

Cyberbullying includes:

• sending threatening or abusive text messages

• creating and sharing embarrassing images or videos

• 'trolling' - sending menacing or upsetting messages on social networks, chat rooms or

online games

• excluding children from online games, activities or friendship groups

• setting up hate sites or groups about a particular child

• encouraging young people to self-harm

• voting for or against someone in an abusive poll

• creating fake accounts, hijacking or stealing online identities to embarrass a young person

or cause trouble using their name.

 

3. Child abuse linked to belief in “spirit possession” or “witchcraft”

The belief in “possession” and “witchcraft” is widespread in some communities. It is not confined to particular countries, cultures or religions. The number of known cases of child abuse linked to accusations of “possession” or “witchcraft” is small, but young people involved can suffer damage to their physical and mental health, capacity to learn, ability to form relationships and self-esteem due to extreme physical and emotional abuse that may be wrongly justified on the basis of spirit possession or witchcraft. Children and Vulnerable Adults can also be subjected and abused by coercive control of their faith leaders.

 

4. Child abuse and social media

The internet has become a significant tool in the distribution of abusive images of children. Social media is used as a means of contacting young people with a view to grooming them for inappropriate or abusive relationships. Contacts made initially in a chat room can be carried on via email, instant messaging services, mobile phones or text messaging. 

 

Cyberbullying, including sexting (which is illegal), is now widespread and can be very harmful to young people. Further advice and guidance on this topic are on the websites of the NSPCC, CEOP, Internet Watch Foundation and the UK Safer Internet Centre.

 

Children and young people can be bullied, groomed and exploited on-line. This must be reported to CEOP (Child Exploitation on-line protection) if suspected. Children are at a higher risk of attempting suicide when subject to this form of abuse. Please see UDPM On-line Safeguarding Policy

 

5. Online sexual abuse

• persuading or forcing a child to send or post sexually explicit images of themselves, this is

sometimes referred to as ‘sexting’

• persuading or forcing a child to take part in sexual activities via a webcam or smartphone

• having sexual conversations with a child by text or online.

 

Abusers may threaten to send sexually explicit images, video or copies of sexual conversations to the young person's friends and family unless they take part in other sexual activity. Images or videos may continue to be shared long after the abuse has stopped.

Abusers will often try to build an emotional connection with a child in order to gain their trust for the purposes of sexual abuse. This is known as grooming.

https://www.ceop.police.uk/safety-centre/

 

6. Child sexual exploitation

Where an individual or group takes advantage of an imbalance of power to coerce, manipulate or deceive a Child into sexual activity:
(a) in exchange for something the victim needs or wants, and/or
(b) for the financial advantage or increased status of the perpetrator or facilitator. 

 

The victim may have been sexually exploited even if the sexual activity appears consensual. 

Child sexual exploitation does not always involve physical contact; it can also occur through the use of technology.  Children often are not aware that they have been victim to sexual exploitation and may refuse consent to sharing of this information. The Child’s safety is the deciding factor for sharing information without consent. Children may be tricked into believing they're in a loving, consensual relationship. They often trust their abuser and don't understand that they're being abused. They may depend on their abuser or be too scared to tell anyone what's happening. They might be invited to parties and given drugs and alcohol before being sexually exploited. They can also be groomed and exploited online.

 

Some children and young people are traffiicked into or within the UK for the purpose of sexual exploitation. Sexual exploitation can also happen to young people in gangs (Berelowitz et al, 2013).  Child sexual exploitation can involve violent, humiliating and degrading sexual assaults and involve multiple perpetrators. Sexual exploitation can be very difficult to identify. 

 

Young people who are being sexually exploited may:

• go missing from home, care or education

• be involved in abusive relationships

• hang out with groups of older people

• be involved in gangs or anti-social groups

• have older boyfriends or girlfriends

• spend time at places of concern, such as hotels or known brothels

• be involved in petty crime such as shoplifting

• have access to drugs and alcohol

• have new things such as clothes and mobile phones, which they aren’t able to easily explain

https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/591903/

CSE_Guidance_Core_Document_13.02.2017.pdf

 

7. Harmful sexual behaviour

Harmful sexual behaviour (HSB) is developmentally inappropriate sexual behaviour which is displayed by children and young people and which may be harmful or abusive. It may also be referred to as sexually harmful behaviour or sexualised behaviour. HSB encompasses a range of behaviour, which can be displayed towards younger children, peers, older children or adults. It is harmful to the children and young people who display it, as well as the people it is directed towards. 

 

HSB can include:

• using sexually explicit words and phrases

• inappropriate touching

• using sexual violence or threats

• sexual activity with other children or adults.

Sexual behaviour between children is considered harmful if one of the children is much older – particularly if there is more than two years’ difference in age or if one of the children is pre-pubescent and the other isn’t (Davies, 2012). However, a younger child can abuse an older child, particularly if they have power over them – for example, if the older child is disabled (Rich, 2011).

 

8. Child trafficking

Child trafficking is child abuse. This is where children are recruited, moved or transported and then exploited e.g. for the purpose of sexual exploitation or domestic servitude. They are often subject to multiple forms of abuse. Children may be traffiicked into the UK from abroad but can also be traffiicked from one part of the UK to another. Advice can be sought from the Child traffiicking Advice Centre (CTAC) on: 0808 800 5000.

 

The main indicator may be that they are not in the care of a person who holds legal responsibility for them. This can be done by the adult providing details of their relationship with the child and signing a form to confirm their legal responsibility prior to treatment being agreed or provided. Checks need to be made for the validity of the information. If the child is in the care of a person who does not have legal responsibility for them a referral must be made to Children’s Social Care as this may constitute private fostering arrangements.

 

Responding to modern slavery and child trafficking is often reactive as the child has already been abused. A robust, pro-active approach to prevent abuse from happening in the first place. The child will show signs of abuse and there will be concern regarding the person accompanying the child.

https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/177033/

DFE-00084-2011.pdf

 

9. Disabled children

Disabled young people are three times more likely than non-disabled children to experience abuse due to a number of factors:

● have fewer outside contacts than other young people;

● may receive personal care, possibly from a number of carers, which may both increase the risk of exposure to abusive behaviour and make it more difficult to set and maintain physical boundaries;

● have an impaired capacity to resist or avoid abuse;

● have communication difficulties that may make it difficult to tell others what is happening or to be believed;

● be inhibited about complaining because of a fear of losing services;

● Be especially vulnerable to bullying and intimidation and /or, abuse by their peers.

https://learning.nspcc.org.uk/safeguarding-child-protection/deaf-and-disabled-children

 

10. Domestic violence

Young people living in families where they are exposed to domestic violence have been shown to be at risk of behavioural, emotional, physical and longterm developmental problems. Everyone working with young people and families should be alert to the frequent inter-relationship between domestic violence and the abuse and neglect of young people.

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/domestic-violence-and-abuse

 

11. Fabricated or Induced Illness

The fabrication or induction of illness in children is a relatively rare form of child abuse. Where concerns exist about fabricated or induced illness, it requires professionals to work together, evaluating all the available evidence, in order to reach an understanding of the reasons for the child’s signs and symptoms of illness. The management of these cases requires a careful medical evaluation which considers a range of possible diagnoses. At all times professionals need to keep an open mind to ensure that they have not missed a vital piece of information.

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/safeguarding-children-in-whom-illness-is-fabricated-or-induced

 

12. Female genital mutilation (FGM)

Communities tend to use local names for referring to this practice including “Sunna”.  Some FGM practicing families do not see it as an act of Abuse. However, FGM has significant physical and mental health consequences both in the short and long term and, therefore, must not be excused, condoned or accepted. FGM cannot be left to personal preference or cultural custom as it is an extremely harmful practice that violates basic human rights. Girls are at particular risk of FGM during school summer holidays. This is the time when families may take their children abroad for the procedure.

 

Many girls may not be aware that they may be at risk of undergoing FGM. FGM is illegal in the UK and where it is suspected it must be referred onto children’s social care. If you are informed that a child has been ‘cut’, it must be reported to the police.  See guidance: Female Genital Mutilation and its management:

https://www.rcog.org.uk/globalassets/documents/guidelines/gtg-53-fgm.pdf

 

In Wales, there is a published FGM Care Pathway and any queries should be directed through the health board FGM lead: www.wales.nhs.uk/sitesplus/888/page/67421/

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/fact-sheet-on-mandatory-reporting-of-female-genital-mutilation

 

13. Forced marriage

A forced marriage is a marriage conducted without the full consent of both parties and where duress is a factor. It is entirely different from an arranged marriage, and the two should not be confused. In an arranged or assisted marriage, the families take a role in choosing and introducing the marriage partners but the marriage is entered into freely by both people, without pressure. In a forced marriage, this consent does not exist. If this form of harm is suspected, advice should be sought from the Forced Marriage Unit prior to any discussion with the young person or family on 0207 008 0151or out of offiice hours contact: 0207 008 1500 (ask for Global Response Centre).

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/forced-marriage

 

14. Parental adversity

Parental drug misuse can and can cause harm from conception to adulthood, including physical and emotional abuse and neglect. Where drug misuse co-exists with domestic violence and mental illness the risk of harm to a child is even greater.

 

15. Race and racism

Children from black and minority ethnic groups may have experienced harassment, racial

discrimination and institutional racism. The experience of racism is likely to affect the responses of the young person and parents/carers to other intervention in their lives. There is also a danger that people working with children and young people may not intervene soon enough for fear of being seen as racist and in so doing, offer the child less protection.

 

16. Unaccompanied asylum-seeking children (UASC)

A UASC is an asylum-seeking Child who is not living with their parent, relative or guardian in the UK. They can be more vulnerable to abuse and exploitation because they lack the necessary support networks, protection and communication skills.

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/656425/UASC_Safeguarding_Strategy_2017.pdf

 

17. Online abuse

Online abuse is any type of abuse that happens on the web, whether through social networks, playing online games or using mobile phones. Children and young people may experience cyberbullying, grooming, sexual abuse, sexual exploitation or emotional abuse. Children can be at risk of online abuse from people they know, as well as from strangers. Online abuse may be part of abuse that is taking place in the real world (for example bullying or grooming). Or it may be that the abuse only happens online (for example persuading children to take part in sexual activity online).  Children can feel like there is no escape from online abuse – abusers can contact them at any time of the day or night, the abuse can come into safe places like their bedrooms, and images and videos can be stored and shared with other people. (NSPCC)

https://www.nspcc.org.uk/preventing-abuse/child-abuse-and-neglect/online-abuse/

 

18. Safeguarding adolescents

The nature of abuse and neglect for teenagers is different from that of younger children. Behaviours by parents/adults that might be deemed abusive or neglect for a very young child may be considered appropriate for teenagers. Additionally, they may face a wider range of risks due to the relationships they have, social media that they use, lifestyles that they lead and with their increasing independence. Risk taking and experimentation is a normal part of growing up but also can place young people in harm’s way.

 

19. Young people whose behaviour indicates a lack of parental control

When young people are brought to the attention of the police or wider community because of their behaviour, this may be an indication of vulnerability, poor supervision, abuse or neglect in its wider sense. It is important to consider whether these are young people in need of protection and/or support services and not to view them as only an offender as they may well be also victims themselves.

 

20. Young people and gang activity

Overall, young people can be particularly vulnerable to suffering harm in the gang context are those who are:

● not involved in gangs, but living in an area where gangs are active, which can have a negative impact on their ability to be safe;

● not involved in gangs, but at risk of becoming victims of gangs;

● not involved in gangs but at risk of becoming drawn in, for example, Siblings or children of known gang members; or

● Gang-involved and at risk of harm through their gang-related activities e.g. drug supply, weapon use, sexual exploitation and risk of attack from own or rival gang members.

 

Gang violence and associated criminal activity has devastating effects on young people. It can involve illicit drug use, sexual exploitation, intimate relationship violence and risk of suicide. There is a high level of mental health problems in members and those exploited by gang members. A health service is most likely to be the first service to be required by young people involved in gangs.

https://www.nspcc.org.uk/preventing-abuse/keeping-children-safe/staying-safe-away-from-home/gangs-young-people/

 

21. Young carers

A young carer is a person under 18 who provides or intends to provide care for another person (of any age with the exception of where that care is provided for payment or as voluntary work).  Young carers may require support services either for them or for the person they care for in order to ensure that their health and welfare does not suffer. In some instances, young carers may also be in need of protection due to the adverse circumstances they may be experiencing or where the behaviour of the person that they are caring for is abusive. A Child who is a young carer is deemed to be a Child in need and therefore may benefit form an assessment of their needs by Children’s Social Care

 

22. Radicalisation and violent extremism

Radicalisation refers to the process by which a person comes to support terrorism and forms of extremism leading to terrorism. 

Extremism is defined by the Government in the 2011 Prevent Strategy as: “Vocal or active opposition to fundamental British values, including democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect and tolerance of different faiths and beliefs. It also includes calls for death of members of the armed forces, whether in this country or overseas.”

 

There is no such thing as a “typical extremist”: those who become involved in extremist actions come from a range of backgrounds and experiences, and most individuals, even those who hold radical views, do not become involved in violent extremist activity.

 

Children or adults may become susceptible to radicalisation through a range of social, personal and environmental factors - it is known that violent extremists exploit vulnerabilities in individuals.  Indicators of vulnerability include:

● Identity crisis – the young person is distanced from their cultural/religious heritage and experiences discomfort about their place in society;

● Personal crisis – the young person may be experiencing family tensions; a sense of isolation; and low self-esteem; they may have dissociated from their existing friendship

group and become involved with a new and different group of friends; they may be searching for answers to questions about identity, faith and belonging;

● Personal circumstances – migration; local community tensions; and events affecting the student’s country or region of origin may contribute to a sense of grievance that is triggered by personal experience of racism or discrimination or aspects of Government policy;

● Unmet aspirations – the young person may have perceptions of injustice; a feeling of failure; rejection of civic life;

● Experiences of criminality – which may include involvement with criminal groups, imprisonment, and poor resettlement/reintegration;

● Special educational needs – the young person may experience difficulties with social interaction, empathy with others, understanding the consequences of their actions and awareness of the motivations of others.

● Extreme right-wing attitudes, racism and discriminatory attitudes to black and minority ethnic groups, people with different LGBTGs.

 

However, this list is not exhaustive, nor does it mean that all young people experiencing the above are at risk of radicalisation for the purposes of violent extremism. Indicators of radicalisation and violent extremism may include:

● showing sympathy for extremist causes

● contact with extremist recruiters;

● justifying the use of violence to solve societal issues;

● joining or seeking to join extremist organisations;

● glorifying violence, especially to other faiths or cultures

● making remarks or comments about being at extremist events or rallies

● possessing illegal or extremist literature

● advocating messages similar to illegal organisations or other extremist groups

● out of character changes in dress, behaviour and peer relationships secretive behaviour

● online searches or sharing extremist messages or social profiles

● intolerance of difference, including faith, culture, gender, race or sexuality

● graffiti, art work or writing that displays extremist themes

● attempts to impose extremist views or practices on others

● verbalising anti-Western or anti-British views

 

Children or adults who are showing signs of radicalisation and violent extremism will need to be considered as at risk of harm to themselves or others and therefore such concerns should be acted upon by following safeguarding procedures. 

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/prevent-duty-guidance

 

 

APPENDIX 4

 

Categories and Definitions of Abuse - Vulnerable Adult

Vulnerable Adults mainly will be cared for and about by people close to them. Sometimes a Vulnerable Adult may be exploited or abused and due to their current state of vulnerability and be unable to protect themselves or make the best decisions for their well-being and considered to be an adult at risk. At these times anyone working to this policy framework will have a responsibility to support and protect the adult at risk by sharing information and concerns. Vulnerable Adults may be at risk from the same abuses as children and further abuses. The Care and support statutory guidance identify ten types of abuse, these are:

 

Physical abuse including:

● assault

● hitting

● slapping

● pushing

● misuse of medication

● restraint

● inappropriate physical sanction

 

Domestic violence including:

● psychological

● physical

● sexual

● financial

● emotional abuse

● so called ‘honour’ based violence

 

Financial or material abuse including:

● theft

● fraud

● internet scamming

● coercion in relation to an adult’s financial affairs or arrangements, including in connection with wills, property, inheritance or financial transactions

● the misuse or misappropriation of property, possessions or benefits

 

Sexual abuse including:

● rape

● indecent exposure

● sexual harassment

● inappropriate looking or touching

● sexual teasing or innuendo

● sexual photography

● subjection to pornography or witnessing sexual acts

● indecent exposure

● sexual assault

● sexual acts to which the adult has not consented or was pressured into consenting

 

Modern slavery encompasses:

● slavery

● human trafficking

● forced labour and domestic servitude.

● traffickers and slave masters using whatever means they have at their disposal to coerce, deceive and force individuals into a life of abuse, servitude and inhumane treatment

 

Psychological abuse including:

● emotional abuse

● threats of harm or abandonment

● deprivation of contact

● humiliation

● blaming

● controlling

● intimidation

● coercion

● harassment

● verbal abuse

● cyber bullying

● isolation

● unreasonable and unjustified withdrawal of services or supportive networks

 

Organisational abuse including:

• neglect and poor care practice within an institution or specific care segment such as a hospital or care home, for example, or in relation to care provided in one’s own home.  This may range from one off incidents to on-going ill-treatment. It can be through neglect or poor professional practice as a result of the structure, policies, processes and practices within an organisation.

 

Neglect and acts of omission including:

• ignoring medical emotional or physical care needs

• failure to provide access to appropriate health, care and support or educational services

• the withholding of the necessities of life, such as medication, adequate nutrition and heating

 

Discriminatory abuse including forms of:

• harassment

• slurs or similar treatment:

• because of race

• gender and gender identity

• age

• disability

• sexual orientation

• religion

 

Self-neglect including:

• a wide range of behaviour including neglecting to care for one’s personal hygiene, health or surroundings and includes behaviour such as hoarding. It should be noted that self-neglect may not prompt a section 42 enquiry. An assessment should be made on a case by case basis. A decision on whether a response is required under safeguarding will depend on the adult’s ability to protect themselves by controlling their own behaviour. There may come a point when they are no longer able to do this, without external support. HM Govt (2017): Care and Support Statutory Guidance. Chapter 14: Safeguarding London DoH

 

Spiritual Abuse including:

• manipulation and exploitation, 

• enforced accountability, 

• censorship of decision-making, 

• the requirement of secrecy and silence, 

• coercion to conform, 

• control through the use of sacred texts or teaching, 

• the requirement of obedience to the abuser, 

• the suggestion that the abuser has a ‘divine’ position, 

• isolation as a means of punishment, and superiority and elitism.

(Breaking the Silence on Spiritual Abuse Lisa Oakley & Kathryn Kinmond 2013)

 

 

APPENDIX 5

 

Responding to people who disclose Abuse

At the start and at other appropriate junctions of our events and before all ministry appointments at (Conferences, Retreats, Workshops, on-line training, small groups, prayer ministry, etc.), UNBOUND Team Members will make an announcement about safeguarding.  The statement will be this or something similar:

 

“It is UNBOUND UK’s top priority to look after the people in our care. 

 

If you decide to spend some time with a ministry team or if you talk to UNBOUND Team Members at an event, everything you share with them is completely confidential. The only exception to this is if you share information which we are legally obliged to disclose.  We are legally obliged to disclose details if what you mention suggests that you or someone else is at risk of harm.  In that case, we may need to speak to someone in our safeguarding team.

 

We always say that disclosure of an abusive situation is best made when you plan and intend to make the disclosure.  Your ministry team do not need to know specific details about an abusive situation in order to help you during ministry time.”

 

If a Vulnerable Adult tells you that they have been or are being abused you must (or that they have or are abusing others):

● Listen carefully to their story without digging or questioning

● Reassure them that you will take what they say seriously

● Tell them that you cannot keep this secret as you have a duty to protect them from harm

● Tell them who you will share the information with

● Ask them if you can share their name

● If necessary, offer to support them in speaking to police or social care

• Write down what was said as soon as you can

 

If an adult who is not a Vulnerable Adult tells you that they have been or are being abused you must (or that they have or are abusing others):

• Listen carefully to their story without digging or questioning

• Reassure them that you will take what they say seriously

• Tell them that you may not be able to keep this information confidential if you believe that others may be at risk of harm as you have a duty to protect them from harm

• Tell them who you will share the information with

• Ask them if you can share their name

• If necessary, offer to support them in speaking to police or social care

• Write down what was said as soon as you can

Remember that an adult who is NOT a Vulnerable Adult is entitled to put themself in harm’s way if they choose.

 

Disclosure in a ministry setting

When a person shares about Abuse, the following procedure should be followed:

• the person should be informed that any information given may need to be shared with the appropriate authority

• the person should be actively encouraged not to say any more but to speak instead with the appropriate person at the event. Sensitivity must be shown. It is important to give reassurance that he / she has done the right thing in speaking up. No questions should be asked of the person, they should be allowed to share only what they choose to share and should not be encouraged in any way to share more.

• If an adult discloses Abuse their name will be shared only with consent, if they do not acquire consent the following applies. They can maintain their own privacy but the name of the alleged perpetrator, if identifiable, must be shared.

• If the person alleging Abuse suggests that any young person under 18 is still at risk, there is a legal duty upon UNBOUND UK to share this with social services / and or police within 24hrs.

• In all cases, UNBOUND UK will report the incident and discussion to the DSL as a matter of urgency

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APPENDIX 6

 

Reporting

1. What to report

Allegations, suspicions and disclosures may be about a range of harmful experiences which have been included in Appendix 3. Any reasonable suspicion of abuse or disclosure of abuse must be responded to, even where there has not been a specific disclosure or allegation by the individual (including allegations about persons or events not directly linked to UNBOUND UK). 

The following examples would constitute reasonable grounds for concern:

● Specific indications from the person that he/she was abused;

● An account by a person who saw the child being abused;

● Evidence such as injury or behaviour which is consistent with abuse and unlikely to be caused another way;

● Consistent indication over a period of time that a person is suffering from emotional or physical neglect

 

Where there is uncertainty whether the concern constitutes a need for reporting it should be

discussed formally with the DSL. Under no circumstances should a child be left in a

dangerous situation, pending discussion with social services.

 

2. Inappropriate behaviour of participants

It is important to remember that sometimes challenging/ inappropriate behaviours could be an indication or experience of harm or distress and, if this is evident, the UNBOUND Team Member should offer to listen to the person or offer someone to provide pastoral care. If the behaviour is a risk to other people, it must be managed out of the event but attention paid to the continuing needs of the person and referral to statutory services may be required.

 

In all cases, please ensure you report any of the above to the DSL as a matter of urgency.

 

3. Retrospective Disclosure by adults

When an adult makes a retrospective disclosure of abuse which took place during his/her childhood it is essential to consider the current risk to any child who may have contact with the alleged offender. If the alleged offender has contact with children then the person making the disclosure should be encouraged and empowered to make a report. 

 

Please report any such disclosure immediately to the DSL.

 

 

APPENDIX 7

 

Allegations against staff - Guidelines for good practice

1. Any allegation of abuse should be dealt with sensitively and according to the principles of natural justice. The primary goal is to protect the person while taking care to treat the UNBOUND Team Member / event attendees fairly. The following procedures will be followed:
   - The person who becomes aware of the suspicion or allegation will notify the DSL who will assess the situation promptly and carefully.
   - If there is an allegation made against the DSL, the referral should be made to the chair of trustees or the Safeguarding Trustee.
   - Where there are grounds for concern the Safeguarding Leader will report to the Police and Social Services and seek support and advice from CSAS, before meeting with the accused and giving them any details about the allegation. This is to avoid jeopardising any investigation by the statutory authorities.
   - If a meeting with the accused goes ahead, the DSL and one other UNBOUND Team Member will meet privately with the accused individual to inform them of the following:

- The fact that an allegation has been made

- The nature of the allegation

- The fact that he/she cannot have direct contact with Vulnerable Adults while an investigation is being carried out

 

This meeting should be recorded and a copy of the minutes kept with the record of action for the incident.

The accused person will be offered emotional support and encouragement pending an investigation, based on an understanding of their right to natural justice and fair treatment.

 

In all cases of suspicions/allegations against a UNBOUND Team Member or event attendee the Chair of Trustees, DSL and CSAS should also be informed for the organisation to manage and report accordingly. (e.g. Charities Commission and other regulatory bodies)

 

UNBOUND UK will seek professional advice from relevant agencies (e.g. the police)

 

 

 

APPENDIX 8    

 

Recording Form request printed copies from: enquiries@unboundprayer.com

 

Record of concern for referral

 

Information received at (time)…………… On (date)……………………………

By (Name)………………………………………………………………………………………………

(Role)…………………………………….. (Contact Number)………………………………….

Information received (delete as necessary) by telephone / by letter / in person / by email

 

Any related documentation should be retained securely and forwarded to the relevant Diocesan

Safeguarding Coordinator with this form as soon as possible.

Nature of Complaint…………………………………………………………………………………….

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………

………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Name and age of complainant…………………………………………………………………………

Name and age of victim………………………………………………………………………………..

Names and ages of witnesses…………………………………………………………………………

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Allegation against (full name, age and description) …………………………………………………

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………

INCIDENT DETAILS

Nature of incident/ concern: physical / sexual / emotional / neglect

Time………………..

Date………………...

Place…………………………………………………………………………………………

 

Please record all details of complaint/ concern as given by complainant/ witness

Signature of complainant……………………………………………………………………………….

Signature of witness…………………………………………………………………………………….

Signature of person receiving complaint……………………………………………………………...

Time and date of completion of this form……………………………………………………………..

 

Please attach any written statements / evidence 

 

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APPENDIX 9

 

Data Protection and Information sharing:

Everyone responsible for using personal data has to follow strict rules called ‘data protection

principles’. They must make sure the information is:

● used fairly, lawfully and transparently

● used for specified, explicit purposes

● used in a way that is adequate, relevant and limited to only what is necessary

● accurate and, where necessary, kept up to date

● kept for no longer than is necessary

● handled in a way that ensures appropriate security, including protection against unlawful or

unauthorised processing, access, loss, destruction or damage

 

When sharing sensitive information, it is important to uphold these principles.

When sharing the information for safeguarding you must consider if you have consent.

Information can be shared legally without consent, if you are unable to, if it cannot be reasonably expected to gain consent from the individual, or if to gain consent could place a child at risk.

 

Any relevant personal information can be shared lawfully if it is to keep a Child or Vulnerable Adult safe from neglect or physical, emotional or mental harm, or if it is protecting their physical, mental, or emotional well-being.

 

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/721581/Information_sharing_advice_practioners_safeguarding_services.pdf#:~:text=Information%20sharing%20is%20essen9al%20for%20effective%20safeguarding%20and,action%20that%20keeps%20children%20and%20young%20people%20safe.

 

https://www.scie.org.uk/safeguarding/adults/practice/sharing-information

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