Date Adopted: August 2025

Review Date: July 2026

1. Purpose

Lighthouse Dementia Support is committed to safeguarding the welfare of all beneficiaries, staff, volunteers, trustees, and anyone connected to our work. We recognise that people affected by dementia — and those who care for them — may be especially vulnerable to harm, neglect, or exploitation. This policy outlines our approach to preventing harm, responding to concerns, and promoting a culture of safety, dignity, and trust.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

• Trustees
• Staff (paid and unpaid)
• Volunteers
• Contractors and partners
• Service users and beneficiaries
• Visitors to our events or premises

It covers all activities, including workshops, outreach, home visits, and digital engagement.

3. Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

The CEO shall act as the DSL unless another person is formally appointed. The DSL is responsible for:

• Ensuring safeguarding policies and procedures are implemented and reviewed
• Coordinating safeguarding training and induction
• Responding to and recording safeguarding concerns
• Liaising with statutory agencies (e.g., Adult Social Care, Police)
• Supporting staff and volunteers in managing disclosures or concerns
• A Deputy DSL may be appointed to ensure continuity and support.

4. Safeguarding Principles

We are guided by the following principles:

• All individuals have the right to live free from abuse, neglect, and exploitation
• Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility — not just the DSL
• Concerns will be taken seriously, acted upon promptly, and handled sensitively
• Confidentiality will be maintained unless disclosure is necessary to protect someone from harm
• We will work in partnership with carers, families, and statutory agencies to promote safety and wellbeing

5. Types of Harm Recognised

We recognise and respond to the following forms of abuse:

• Physical abuse – hitting, pushing, misuse of medication
• Emotional/psychological abuse – threats, humiliation, isolation
• Sexual abuse – inappropriate touching, sexual assault
• Financial abuse – theft, fraud, misuse of property or benefits
• Neglect – failure to provide basic care, food, or medical attention
• Discriminatory abuse – harassment based on race, gender, disability, etc.
• Institutional abuse – poor care practices, lack of dignity in group settings
• Domestic abuse – controlling or coercive behaviour within relationships
• Self-neglect – when a person fails to care for themselves in a way that puts them at risk

6. Reporting Concerns

Any safeguarding concern must be reported to the DSL immediately.

• If the concern involves the DSL, it must be reported to the Chair of Trustees.
• Concerns may arise from direct disclosure, observation, or third-party reports.
• All concerns will be documented using the Safeguarding Concern Form.
• Where appropriate, concerns will be referred to the local authority or police.
• The DSL will maintain a confidential safeguarding log and ensure follow-up.
• Responding to Disclosures
• If someone discloses a safeguarding concern:
• Listen calmly and without judgment
• Do not promise confidentiality — explain that you may need to share the information
• Record the disclosure accurately and promptly
• Report to the DSL immediately
• Offer reassurance and support, but do not investigate yourself

8. Training and Awareness

All trustees, staff, and volunteers will receive safeguarding training appropriate to their role.

• Training will be refreshed at least every two years.
• Safeguarding will be included in induction for all new team members.
• The DSL will attend external safeguarding updates annually.
• Posters and guidance will be displayed at events and venues.

9. Safer Recruitment

All staff and volunteers will undergo appropriate vetting, including DBS checks where required.

• References will be taken for all new staff and volunteers.
• Roles involving direct contact with vulnerable adults will be risk-assessed and clearly defined.
• Digital Safeguarding
• Online workshops and communications will follow safeguarding protocols.
• Personal data will be protected in line with our Data Protection Policy.
• Staff and volunteers will be trained in safe digital engagement.

11. Monitoring and Review

Safeguarding concerns and actions will be reviewed quarterly by the DSL and reported to trustees.

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if legislation, best practice, or operational needs change.

Feedback from staff, volunteers, and service users will inform improvements.