Helping Hands Loan Store
Child Protection policy statement
Although primarily a loan store, lending equipment to the families and carers of children with disabilities and special needs, there will be from time to time, activities such as fundraising events and demonstrations, where Trustees, Volunteers and Supporters of Helping Hands Loan Store, deal directly with children.
Helping Hands Loan Store acknowledges the duty of care to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and is committed to ensuring safeguarding practice reflects statutory responsibilities, government guidance and complies with best practice requirements.
At all times, when operating and lending equipment, any manufacturers guidance and hazards must be passed on to the appropriate adult who is taking responsibility for the equipment.
The policy recognises that the welfare and interests of children are paramount in all circumstances. It aims to ensure that regardless of age, gender, religion or beliefs, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or socioeconomic background, all children
have a positive and enjoyable experience of the equipment on offer at Helping Hands Loan Store,
Are dealt with in a child centred environment
are protected from abuse whilst participating in activities provided by the organisation, or outside of the activity.
Helping Hands Loan Store acknowledges that some children, including disabled children and young people or those from ethnic minority communities, can be particularly vulnerable to abuse and we accept the responsibility to take reasonable and appropriate steps to ensure their welfare.
As part of our safeguarding policy Helping Hands Loan Store will
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promote and prioritise the safety and wellbeing of children and young people
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ensure everyone understands their roles and responsibilities in respect of safeguarding and is
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ensure appropriate action is taken in the event of incidents/concerns of abuse and support provided to the individual/s who raise or disclose the concern
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ensure that confidential, detailed and accurate records of all safeguarding concerns are maintained and securely stored
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prevent the employment/deployment of unsuitable individuals
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ensure robust safeguarding arrangements and procedures are in operation.
The policy and procedures will be widely promoted and are mandatory for everyone involved in Helping Hands Loan Store. Failure to comply with the policy and procedures will be addressed without delay and may ultimately result in dismissal/exclusion from the organisation.
Monitoring
The policy will be reviewed a year after development and then every three years, or in the following circumstances:
changes in legislation and/or government guidance
as required by the Local Safeguarding Children Board
as a result of any other significant change or event.
Dedicated safeguarding officer
Should you wish to raise any concerns or discuss matters, please contact:-
Brian McMillan
Secretary
Helping Hands Loan Store
2 Lhen Close
Muxton
Telford
TF2 8SE
 (Created 1st December 2014)