Safeguarding Policy for Pride in Coalville
1. Introduction Pride in Coalville is committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all participants, including attendees, volunteers, staff, and performers. This safeguarding policy outlines our commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals, including children, young people, and adults at risk, from harm during our events and associated activities.
2. Purpose The purpose of this policy is to:
Ensure the safety and wellbeing of all individuals attending or participating in Pride in Coalville events.
Provide guidance to volunteers, staff, and organisers on recognising and responding to safeguarding concerns.
Promote a culture of respect, inclusion, and accountability.
3. Scope This policy applies to all individuals involved in Pride in Coalville events, including:
Organisers and committee members.
Volunteers and staff.
Contractors and vendors.
Performers and contributors.
Attendees and participants.
4. Definitions
Safeguarding: Protecting individuals from abuse, harm, or neglect.
Child: Anyone under the age of 18.
Adult at risk: A person aged 18 or over who is unable to protect themselves from harm due to their care needs, disability, or vulnerability.
Abuse: Any action or inaction that causes harm to another person, including physical, emotional, sexual, financial, or discriminatory harm.
5. Principles
Safety first: The safety and wellbeing of individuals is our top priority.
Respect and dignity: All individuals will be treated with respect and their rights upheld.
Zero tolerance: We will not tolerate any form of abuse, discrimination, or harassment.
Accountability: Everyone involved in Pride in Coalville events has a role to play in safeguarding.
6. Safeguarding Roles and Responsibilities
Safeguarding Lead: A designated Safeguarding Lead will oversee safeguarding practices, handle concerns, and liaise with external agencies when necessary.
Volunteers and staff: All volunteers and staff must follow this policy, report concerns, and attend safeguarding training where required.
Participants: All attendees are encouraged to act respectfully and report any concerns to event organisers.
7. Code of Conduct All individuals involved in Pride in Coalville events are expected to:
Treat others with kindness and respect.
Report any safeguarding concerns promptly.
Avoid any behaviour that could be harmful or discriminatory.
8. Recognising and Reporting Concerns
Signs of concern: These may include unexplained injuries, changes in behaviour, signs of neglect, or verbal disclosures.
Reporting process: Any safeguarding concerns should be reported to the Safeguarding Lead immediately. In emergencies, contact the police or relevant emergency services.
9. Responding to Concerns
Take all concerns seriously and act promptly.
Maintain confidentiality and only share information on a need-to-know basis.
Work with appropriate authorities and follow legal requirements.
10. Training and Awareness
Provide safeguarding training to all volunteers, staff, and organisers.
Ensure awareness of this policy and safeguarding procedures.
11. Monitoring and Review
This policy will be reviewed annually or following significant events to ensure its effectiveness.
Feedback from participants, volunteers, and staff will inform updates and improvements.
12. Contact Information
Safeguarding Lead: Debbie Page info@prideincoalville.org
Local Authority Safeguarding Team: Leicestershire & Rutland SCP and SAB lrsb.org.uk
Emergency Services: 999 (for immediate danger).
Non-Emergency Police: 101.
13. Additional Resources
https://resources.leicestershire.gov.uk/education-and-children/child-protection-and-safeguarding
https://safeguarding.network/content/safeguarding-resources
https://learning.nspcc.org.uk/safeguarding-child-protection
14. Approval and Implementation This policy has been approved by the Pride in Coalville organising committee and is effective as of 13/01/2025. All volunteers, staff, and participants are expected to adhere to this policy to ensure a safe and inclusive event for all.