Safeguarding Policy
Forever Held is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk. We recognise our responsibility to ensure that everyone who comes into contact with our charity is protected from harm.
This policy outlines how we approach safeguarding and the steps we take to ensure safety, dignity and respect in all our work.
Our commitment
Forever Held believes that everyone has the right to be safe from harm, abuse and neglect.
We are committed to:
– Acting in the best interests of children and adults at risk
– Providing services in a way that is safe, respectful and compassionate
– Creating a culture where safeguarding concerns are recognised and acted upon
– Responding appropriately to concerns, disclosures or allegations
Scope of this policy
This safeguarding policy applies to:
– Directors and volunteers of Forever Held
– Anyone acting on behalf of the charity
– All activities carried out by Forever Held, including hospital, hospice and home visits
Who we work with
Forever Held works with families affected by baby and infant loss. This may include:
– Bereaved parents and carers
– Babies and infants
– Siblings and other family members
– Adults who may be considered vulnerable due to their circumstances
We recognise that bereavement can increase vulnerability and we approach all interactions with sensitivity and care.
Our safeguarding approach
Forever Held takes a proportionate and responsible approach to safeguarding by:
– Ensuring all volunteers and directors understand safeguarding responsibilities
– Providing clear guidance on professional boundaries
– Working in partnership with healthcare professionals where appropriate
– Carrying out activities in a transparent and accountable way
– Acting promptly on any safeguarding concerns
Recognising safeguarding concerns
Safeguarding concerns may include, but are not limited to:
– Physical, emotional or sexual abuse
– Neglect or self-neglect
– Domestic abuse
– Exploitation
– Unsafe environments
We understand that concerns may arise during visits, conversations or through referrals.
Responding to concerns
If a safeguarding concern arises, Forever Held will:
1. Take the concern seriously and listen carefully
2. Avoid making promises of confidentiality
3. Record the concern accurately and promptly
4. Report the concern to the appropriate authority or professional
5. Act in the best interests of those involved
In an emergency, emergency services will be contacted immediately.
Reporting safeguarding concerns
Safeguarding concerns should be reported to:
Safeguarding Lead: Lottie Lydon
Email: info@foreverheld.org
If a concern relates to immediate danger, contact emergency services.
Concerns may also be reported to local safeguarding authorities or social services where appropriate.
Confidentiality and information sharing
Information related to safeguarding will be:
– Shared only on a need-to-know basis
– Handled in line with data protection legislation
– Recorded and stored securely
Confidentiality may be overridden where there is a risk of harm.
Safer working practices
Forever Held promotes safer working practices, including:
– Maintaining clear professional boundaries
– Avoiding lone working where possible
– Ensuring visits are agreed and recorded
– Respecting families’ privacy, beliefs and wishes
– Acting with integrity and transparency at all times
Allegations against directors or volunteers
Any allegations against a trustee or volunteer will be taken seriously and investigated appropriately. Where necessary, concerns will be referred to relevant authorities.
Review of this policy
This Safeguarding Policy will be reviewed regularly and updated as required to ensure it remains appropriate and effective.
Contact us
If you have any questions or concerns about this policy or safeguarding at Forever Held, please contact:
Email: info@foreverheld.org
Forever Held
Forever Held is a charity creating bespoke 3D hand and foot castings for families after baby and infant loss, preserving a moment in time to be held forever.
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Support & Contact
Families and professionals can refer or contact us directly.
Email: info@foreverheld.org