Safeguarding Policy
November 2025
Purpose
Rebooted is committed to safeguarding the welfare of all individuals who come into contact with our organisation, including staff, volunteers, beneficiaries, and members of the public. We believe that everyone has the right to be safe and protected from harm. This policy outlines our commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment and ensuring compliance with our legal and governance responsibilities.
Scope
This policy applies to all activities undertaken by Rebooted, and to all Trustees, staff (paid or unpaid), volunteers, and beneficiaries.
Principles
Prevention: We will take proactive, proportionate steps to prevent harm through risk assessments, training, and setting clear boundaries and codes of conduct.
Protection: We will respond promptly and effectively to any concerns or allegations of abuse or harm, always prioritising the safety and well-being of the person affected. Empowerment: We will promote an open culture where individuals feel safe and confident to speak out if they have concerns.
Accountability: The Trustees are ultimately accountable for ensuring that our safeguarding practices are robust, effective, and compliant with relevant legislation and Charity Commission guidance.
Key Roles and Responsibilities
Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSL)
To ensure continuity, Rebooted has two nominated contacts who share responsibility for managing safeguarding concerns:
Designated Safeguarding Lead: Ian Sparks
Contact Details: ian.sparks@rebooted.me
Deputy DSL (Backup) Role: James Tweed
Contact Details: jtweed@rebooted.me
Trustee Responsibilities
The Trustees have overall legal and governance responsibility, including ensuring the charity:
1. Approves, reviews, and resources the Safeguarding Policy annually.
2. Sets out identified safeguarding risks and management plans in the risk register.
3. Promotes a positive culture where concerns are heard and responded to quickly. Staff and Volunteer Responsibilities All staff and volunteers have a responsibility to adhere to this policy and the Code of Conduct, complete mandatory safeguarding training, and report any concerns promptly using the procedure below. The duty is to Report, NOT to Investigate.
Reporting Concerns and Procedures
Internal Reporting (Immediate Action)
If you have any concern about the safety or well-being of anyone involved with Rebooted, you must immediately report them to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) or the Deputy DSL. Procedure:
- Do not promise confidentiality as the DSL must act on the information.
- Do not investigate the matter yourself.
- Complete a written record as soon as possible, detailing only the facts (what was seen or said). Your record must include:
○ Date, time, and location of the incident/disclosure.
○ Factual account, using the person’s own words where possible.
○ Your signature and the date the record was made.
External Reporting (Statutory Bodies)
If you believe a person is in immediate danger or their life is at risk, you must call 999 first. You must inform the DSL immediately after contacting emergency services.
DSL is responsible for liaising with external statutory agencies when appropriate. However, if the DSL or Deputy DSL is unavailable or is the subject of the allegation, concerns must be reported directly to:
● Police (Non-Emergency): 101
● Local Authority Social Services (Children or Adult Services): This will depend on the area the vulnerable person is in, so always check online for the most up-to-date contact numbers and ways of reporting.
● Charity Commission: Report a Serious Incident via the government portal.
Suitability and Recruitment
The Trustees shall ensure that appropriate steps are taken to assess the suitability of all individuals (staff, volunteers, and Trustees) who work with or represent the charity, proportionate to the level of contact they have with vulnerable groups. This process will include:
● Reference checks.
● Confirming suitability for the role.
Review
This policy will be reviewed by the Trustees annually, or whenever there is a significant change in legislation, organisational structure, or nature of activity. By implementing and adhering to this safeguarding policy, we can create a culture of safety and respect within Rebooted and ensure that everyone feels protected from harm.
Questions
If you have any queries regarding this policy, please reach out to management or the trustees.