Creating safe environments. Please email us for further details:
safeguarding@jesusyouth.co.uk
Introduction Jesus Youth UK is a registered charity (Charity No: 1120415) committed to the safety and well-being of all young people involved in its activities. As a Catholic youth movement, we strive to create an environment where young people can grow spiritually, socially, and emotionally, aligned with Christian values. This safeguarding policy outlines the procedures and guidelines to ensure the safety of children, young people, and vulnerable adults within the Jesus Youth UK community. We are committed to protecting individuals from harm, reducing the risk of abuse, and ensuring that our volunteers and staff are well-equipped to respond appropriately to safeguarding concerns.
1.Recruitment of Volunteers: All volunteers working with children or vulnerable adults must undergo a thorough recruitment process, including: • References: At least one reference must be provided for every volunteer. • DBS Check: Volunteers must undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check to ensure suitability. • Training: Volunteers must attend safeguarding training and refresh it regularly to remain up to date with safeguarding procedures. • Supervision and Support: Volunteers will be supervised by a designated safeguarding officer to ensure adherence to safeguarding practices.
2.Reporting Safeguarding Concerns.
2.1 General Guidelines for Reporting. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. Concerns of abuse or potential abuse, regardless of their nature , must be reported. All concerns should be directed to the responsible person in charge of the program, the Regional Safeguarding Representative (RSR), or the National Safeguarding Board (NSB). • Confidentiality: Safeguarding matters should be discussed only with the designated safeguarding officer. • Recording: Any concerns or disclosures should be recorded immediately with facts, not assumptions.
2.2 Dealing with Disclosures of Abuse:When a child or vulnerable adult discloses abuse, volunteers must respond appropriately: • Receive: Listen attentively and without judgment. • Reassure: Comfort the individual and assure them they did the right thing. • React: Avoid leading questions and allow the individual to explain in their own words. • Record: Immediately document the disclosure, including the date, time, and relevant details.
3.Responding to Disclosures of Abuse
3.1 General Guidance Always prioritize the welfare of the individual, and report any concern, even small ones, to ensure their safety. Confidentiality must be maintained unless there is a need to report to the relevant authorities.
3.2 Guidelines for Handling Disclosures from Children. If a child discloses abuse: • Stay Calm: Listen carefully without interrupting. • Avoid Judging: Do not express shock or disbelief. • Offer Reassurance: Let them know they did the right thing by speaking up. • Do Not Investigate: Allow the child to share their experience as they are comfortable. • Report Immediately: Contact the designated safeguarding officer or NSB and ensure the child’s safety.
4.Regional Safeguarding Structure. Jesus Youth UK is divided into 8 regions, each with its own Regional Safeguarding Board (RSB). Every regional program must have a Responsible Person in Charge who ensures that safeguarding procedures are followed during the program/event. Regional Safeguarding Representatives (RSRs) play a key role in overseeing safeguarding practices within their regio, supporting the safe running of programs and ensuring that all concerns are reported and managed appropriately.
5.Additional Safeguarding Resources. This policy should be read alongside additional safeguarding documents and resources, including:
• Catholic Safeguarding Advisory Service (CSAS): www.csas.uk.net
• Working Together to Safeguard Children 2023: www.gov.uk/government/publications/working-together-to-safeguard-children--2
• Children Act 1989 & 2004, Children and Families Act 2014, Mental Capacity Act 2005
• ChildLine: 0800 1111
• NSPCC Child Protection Helpline: 0808 800 5000
For any concerns or queries, please contact the National Safeguarding Board at safeguarding@jesusyouth.co.uk or call any of the listed board members.
6.Conclusion. This Safeguarding Policy reflects Jesus Youth UK’s commitment to providing a safe and nurturing environment for all. Every volunteer, staff member, and regional board member has a responsibility to ensure the welfare of all participants. By upholding these standards, Jesus Youth UK ensures that its mission is carried out safely and respectfully
National Safeguarding Board Members
• Chair: Mr. Jose Mathew +447940775669
• Mrs. Saumya Thomas +447515875416
• Mrs. Della Clare John +447896049877
• Mr. Fraju Sebastian +447855242584
• Mr. Pradeep Mathew (Ex.Officio) +447773423394