Safeguarding vulnerable adults policy

Policy

1. Policy Statement

Fit4All is committed to safeguarding and promoting the wellbeing and rights of vulnerable adults. We recognise our responsibility to protect individuals from abuse, neglect, and exploitation, in line with the Care Act 2014, Working Together to Safeguard People (Telford & Wrekin), and all relevant statutory guidance.

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. Fit4All will ensure that staff, volunteers, and partners understand their role in safeguarding adults and act appropriately when concerns arise.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

  • All Fit4All staff, volunteers, trustees, contractors, and session facilitators.
  • Any adults who engage with Fit4All services and activities.
  • All activities delivered by or on behalf of Fit4All.

3. Definitions

Adult at risk (also referred to as “vulnerable adult”): A person aged 18 or over who:

  • Has care and support needs (whether or not the authority is meeting those needs),
  • Is experiencing, or at risk of, abuse or neglect,
  • As a result of those needs, is unable to protect themselves.

Abuse may be:

  • Physical, sexual, emotional/psychological, financial/material, discriminatory, organisational/institutional, neglect, or self-neglect.

4. Legal Framework

This policy is based on:

  • The Care Act 2014
  • Mental Capacity Act 2005
  • Human Rights Act 1998
  • Safeguarding Adults: Roles and Responsibilities (Local Government Association)
  • Telford & Wrekin Safeguarding Partnership guidance and procedures

5. Aims of the Policy

  • Prevent abuse through robust recruitment, training, and clear procedures.
  • Ensure all safeguarding concerns are responded to appropriately and in a timely manner.
  • Promote a culture of openness, dignity, and respect.
  • Work in partnership with adult safeguarding boards and other relevant agencies.

6. Responsibilities

6.1 Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)
Fit4All’s DSL is the company director. They are responsible for:

  • Acting as a first point of contact for safeguarding concerns.
  • Liaising with local safeguarding authorities.
  • Ensuring safeguarding policies and training are up to date.

6.2 Staff and Volunteers
All individuals involved with Fit4All are required to:

  • Attend safeguarding training and refreshers every 2 years.
  • Understand how to recognise signs of abuse.
  • Report concerns without delay.

7. Recognising and Responding to Abuse

Staff must be alert to signs such as:

  • Unexplained injuries or deterioration in health.
  • Withdrawal, fearfulness, or anxiety.
  • Sudden financial difficulty.
  • Poor hygiene or unsuitable living conditions.

If you suspect abuse:

  1. Ensure immediate safety.
  2. Report to the DSL as soon as possible.
  3. Document facts only – do not investigate.

In an emergency, contact Police (999) or Telford & Wrekin Council – Adult Safeguarding Team (01952 385385).

8. Confidentiality and Information Sharing

Information will only be shared on a “need to know” basis and in accordance with:

  • Data Protection Act 2018
  • General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)
  • Telford & Wrekin Safeguarding Partnership’s Multi-Agency Information Sharing Protocol

9. Training

  • All new staff and volunteers receive safeguarding induction within 1 month.
  • Refresher training is mandatory every 2 years.
  • The DSL will access specialist training every 2 years.

10. Recruitment and Supervision

Fit4All ensures:

  • Safer recruitment processes, including DBS checks.
  • Clear role descriptions and responsibilities.
  • Ongoing supervision and support.

11. Complaints and Whistleblowing

We encourage staff and volunteers to speak up if they suspect wrongdoing. Concerns can be raised with:

  • DSL or Deputy DSL
  • Fit4All management
  • Telford & Wrekin Safeguarding Adults Board
  • Whistleblowing Helpline for Social Care: 08000 724 725

12. Monitoring and Review

This policy will be reviewed annually and following any serious incident or legislative change.