Safeguarding Policy – Adults

HomeSafeguarding Policy – Adults

Commitment to Safeguarding

At Unity, we are committed to safeguarding adults at risk, ensuring their safety, well-being, and dignity. We expect everyone who works within our club to share this commitment. Our club takes all welfare concerns seriously and encourages adults to talk to us about anything that worries them. We will always act in the best interests of the individual.

Principles

Unity acknowledges the duty of care to safeguard and promote the welfare of adults at risk and is committed to ensuring safeguarding practices reflect statutory responsibilities, government guidance, and comply with best practices outlined by relevant martial arts governing bodies.

The policy recognises that all adults, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation, have the right to be treated with dignity and respect. This policy ensures that adults at risk:

  • Have a positive and enjoyable experience in a safe environment.
  • Are protected from abuse, harm, or exploitation while participating in activities organised by Unity.

Unity acknowledges that some adults may be particularly vulnerable due to disability, mental health challenges, or other factors. As part of our safeguarding policy, Unity will:

  • Promote and prioritise the safety and well-being of adults at risk.
  • Ensure everyone understands their roles and responsibilities in safeguarding adults and is provided with appropriate training.
  • Take appropriate action in the event of incidents or concerns and provide support to those who raise or disclose concerns.
  • Maintain confidential, detailed, and accurate records of all safeguarding concerns.
  • Share information with relevant agencies when necessary to protect adults at risk.
  • Prevent the employment or deployment of unsuitable individuals.
  • Ensure all staff and volunteers understand their obligations under relevant legislation.

The policy and procedures will be widely promoted and are mandatory for everyone involved in Unity. Failure to comply with the policy and procedures may result in disciplinary action.

Relevant Legislation & Guidance

  • Care Act 2014
  • Mental Capacity Act 2005
  • Human Rights Act 1998
  • Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006
  • Equality Act 2010
  • Data Protection Act 2018
  • Modern Slavery Act 2015
  • Domestic Abuse Act 2021

Definitions

Adult at Risk

An adult at risk is a person aged 18 or over who:

  • Has needs for care and support (whether or not the local authority is meeting any of those needs).
  • Is experiencing, or is at risk of, abuse or neglect.
  • As a result of those needs, is unable to protect themselves from either the risk of, or the experience of, abuse or neglect.

Types of Abuse and Neglect

Abuse may include:

  • Physical abuse: Assault, hitting, slapping, pushing, misuse of medication, restraint, or inappropriate physical sanctions.
  • Emotional abuse: Threats of harm or abandonment, humiliation, intimidation, isolation, or verbal abuse.
  • Sexual abuse: Sexual activity without consent, rape, indecent exposure, or sexual harassment.
  • Financial abuse: Theft, fraud, exploitation, or coercion regarding finances or property.
  • Neglect and acts of omission: Ignoring medical, emotional, or physical care needs, withholding essential resources.
  • Domestic abuse: Controlling, coercive, or threatening behaviour between intimate partners or family members.
  • Modern slavery: Exploitation, forced labour, or human trafficking.
  • Discriminatory abuse: Harassment or unequal treatment based on race, gender, disability, or sexual orientation.

What to Do If You Have a Concern

Unity is not responsible for deciding whether abuse has occurred but has a duty to respond and report concerns. The Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) will:

  • Receive and act on concerns about adults at risk.
  • Report concerns to relevant authorities, such as Adult Social Care or the police.
  • Record all safeguarding incidents and ensure confidentiality.

If you believe an adult is in immediate danger or requires urgent medical attention, call 999 immediately. You can also contact the National Adult Safeguarding Helpline for advice.

Responding to a Concern

When responding to a concern:

  1. Stay calm and listen carefully.
  2. Reassure the individual that they are being taken seriously.
  3. Explain the need to share information with appropriate people to ensure their safety.
  4. Record the disclosure accurately, using their words wherever possible.
  5. Report the concern to the DSL or directly to statutory agencies if necessary.

Safer Recruitment

Unity will take all reasonable steps to ensure unsuitable individuals are not employed or deployed. This includes:

  • Conducting DBS checks for all staff and volunteers working with adults at risk.
  • Requesting references and conducting thorough interviews.
  • Providing safeguarding training as part of the induction process.

Training and Support

All staff and volunteers will receive safeguarding training appropriate to their roles. Ongoing support and supervision will be provided to ensure confidence in recognising and responding to safeguarding concerns.

Recording and Information Sharing

Accurate records of all safeguarding concerns will be maintained and stored securely. Information will only be shared with those who need to know and in line with data protection regulations.

Whistleblowing

Unity encourages all staff and volunteers to report concerns about poor practice or suspected abuse. Whistleblowers will be supported and protected from retaliation.

Policy Review

This Safeguarding Adults Policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if required by changes in legislation or organisational needs.

Contact Information

  • Designated Safeguarding Lead: Chris Ryu
    Email: chris@unityma.co.uk
    Phone: 07740 281666

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