Protection of Children and Adults at Risk

The Society is committed to creating a safe, healthy and inclusive environment for all, particularly the children, young people and adults who may be vulnerable, at risk or in need of protection. SVP is committed at all times to ensuring their safety and welfare through upholding childrens’ rights specifically and human rights generally. SVP members can prove to be a lifeline for many individuals who are in distress or suffering from abuse.

What does safeguarding mean in SVP?

As members we must

- Protect an individual’s right to live in safety free from abuse and neglect - Prevent and stop both the risk and experience of abuse and neglect - Remember - Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility

What is abuse?

- Abuse is when someone causes harm or distress - Something that happens once - Something that happens more than once - Can be unintentional - Can be a deliberate act - Can sometimes be a crime - Abuse can happen anywhere - It can be undertaken by anyone

Key safeguarding messages:

- Duty of Care: - Recognise - Record - Report - Refer

Remember:

- A Child or Vulnerable Adult’s Welfare is Paramount - We treat everyone with Dignity and Respect - The protection of children and vulnerable adults is a shared responsibility

Support for Members:

If you feel overwhelmed or upset by a Safeguarding concern, you can contact the Society’s free, confidential support helpline 24/7/365 on tel: 0808 234 5183

Within the Region you can discuss any concerns with:

Mary Waide,

Chair of SVP National Safeguarding Committee T: 07845 877393 E: mary.waide@svpni.co.uk

Rosemary Simpson, SVP Member Lead T: 0773 9085703 E: nirc.safeguarding@svpni.co.uk

Staff:

Pauline Brown, SVP Regional Manager T: 07921 876230 E: pauline.brown@svpni.co.uk

Joann Barr, SVP Membership Support Officer T: 028 7137 7311 E: joann.barr@svpni.co.uk