{"alias":"contentPage","byline":null,"standfirst":null,"content":{"layouts":[{"type":"singleColumn","areas":[{"items":[{"type":"Promo","cta":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EIn line with its values, The Scout Association recognises its responsibility to deal fairly, constructively and consistently with expressions of concern or dissatisfaction from members and nonmembers, including parents and carers on behalf of themselves or their children.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EAs Scouts we\u2019re \u003Ca href=\u0022/por/1-our-fundamentals/rule-12-our-values/\u0022 title=\u0022The Values of Scouting\u0022\u003Eguided by the values\u003C/a\u003E of integrity, respect, care, belief and co-operation. When applying this policy, these values should be at the forefront of every interaction and decision that\u2019s made, and all involved should be regularly reminded of them.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EFocusing on the values of respect and care, the wellbeing and mental health of all involved when dealing with an expression of concern or dissatisfaction should be considered throughout. \u003Ca rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/supporting-life-issues-and-young-people/supporting-our-members/mental-health/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EFind out more on our Mental Health webpage\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","link":null,"colour":"#f1f1f1","title":"Scout Values","image":null,"imageFocus":"","imageId":0,"imageKey":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","imageCrop":"","gridType":"card","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Ch3\u003EWhat\u0027s changed\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EUpdated to reflect Volunteer Experience changes.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u2018Historic\u2019 has been changed to \u2018non-recent\u2019 in line with recommended best practice.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ESection 5.1 addition that volunteers must complete their safeguarding and safety learning within 30 days as part of their growing roots learning. They then have a further five months to do the rest of their growing roots learning.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safe-scouting-cards/safeguarding-code-of-conduct-for-young-leaders-orange-card/\u0022 title=\u0022Safeguarding Code of Conduct for Young Leaders (Orange Card)\u0022\u003EThe Orange Card\u003C/a\u003E title has been updated to \u2018Orange Card\u202F(Safeguarding Code of Conduct for Young Leaders)\u2019\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ESection 9 on safeguarding adults at risk has been updated to make it clearer that any concerns about adults at risk must be reported. There is no need for the concern to reach a \u2018threshold\u2019 as the UK HQ Safeguarding Team will assess the concern.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EIncluded reference to the Online Safeguarding Reporting Form which launched in January 2025.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EYoung Person definition has been updated for clarity to read: \u2018In The Scout Association, a young person is a member or prospective member aged between their 4th and 18th birthdays. See POR for further definitions.\u2019\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EIncluded reference to the Disclosure (Scotland) Act 2020 which provides PVG membership is a legal requirement for all regulated roles with children and protected adults.\u00A0\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Ch3\u003E1. Introduction\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe Scout Association (TSA) is a federation of over 8000 individual Scout Groups, Districts, Counties/Areas/Regions (Scotland) and Countries, many of whom are independent charities and separate legal entities. \u00A0However, the safeguarding of children, young people and adults at risk is our priority and all Scout Groups, Districts, Counties/Areas/Regions (Scotland) and Countries are governed by the requirements of this policy.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThis policy sets out our safeguarding principles, values and commitments and the procedures which put these into practice. This includes:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EWhat safeguarding means within the Scouts Association (TSA).\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EHow we safeguard those who engage with us.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EHow to report a safeguarding concern or disclosure.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EHow to respond to a safeguarding concern or disclosure.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EFurther Scout Association resources on safeguarding.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThere are appendices on definitions, the applicable legislation and guidance for jurisdictions, roles and responsibilities for safeguarding, the reporting form and the pre-existing relationship conversation at the end of this policy.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThis policy applies to everyone who engages with The Scout Association including all members, staff and volunteers, contractors and sub-contractors.\u003C/p\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Ch3\u003E2. Safeguarding policy statement and approach\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe Scout Association actively engages and supports children and young people in their personal development, empowering them to make a positive contribution to society. We do this by equipping our youth members (4 to 25 year olds) with skills for life at a local, regional and national level. This work is carried out by a dedicated volunteer base and an enthusiastic staff team.\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ESquirrels: 4-6 years\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EBeavers: 6-8 years\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ECubs: 8-10 \u00BD years\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EScouts: 10 \u00BD \u2013 14 years\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EExplorers: 14-18 years\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ENetwork: 18-25 years\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThis policy underpins every aspect of the work and service we deliver to develop skills for life. It offers guidance for anyone who has a concern about the welfare of a child, young person or adult at risk, and how to report a safeguarding concern or disclosure.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWe acknowledge our responsibility to safeguard and promote the welfare of everyone who engages with The Scout Association. Our staff, volunteers and trustees are committed to making safeguarding integral to all the work completed by them.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWe ensure the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk is paramount by placing them and their needs at the heart of planning and implementing policies, projects and initiatives. This embeds safeguarding and reinforces our message that safeguarding is everyone\u2019s responsibility.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EOur work is carried out in accordance with our values of care, respect, integrity, cooperation, and exploring our own and others\u2019 beliefs.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EEstablishing and fostering a culture of honesty and openness helps us recognise issues and respond to these. This is particularly important when working with diverse communities or those who have additional and complex needs, to make sure that The Scout Association continually learns and adapts their practice.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWe are committed to making sure all our activities, including engagement with the wider community and external agencies, are carried out to the highest standards of safeguarding practice, are compliant with current legislation and are fully accountable to the Charity Commission. These standards are set out in this policy and in the \u003Ca href=\u0022/por/1-our-fundamentals/\u0022 title=\u00221. Our Fundamentals\u0022\u003EPolicy, Organisation and Rules\u003C/a\u003E (POR).\u003C/p\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"accordion","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","showExpand":true,"items":[{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EOur safeguarding practice places the views of children and young people at the centre of our policy planning and implementation processes. This approach makes sure that their welfare remains paramount in all we do.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"2.1 Child and young person focused"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EOur safeguarding practice places the views of an individual at the centre of our policy planning and implementation processes. It encourages us to have conversations with people about how we might respond in safeguarding situations in ways that enhance involvement, inform choice and control. We work preventatively, to make sure that robust procedures are in place and respond to each adult at risk as a unique and valued individual, in ways which advances the person\u2019s rights, dignity and wellbeing and are legal, proportionate and reasonable; mindful at all times that we are working to safeguard adults who have the right to be involved in and informed of all safeguarding decisions which affect them. It\u2019s about seeing people as experts in their own lives and working alongside them with the aim of enabling them to reach better resolution of their circumstances and recovery.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"2.2 Person focused"}]},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch3\u003E3. Scope\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThis policy applies to everyone who engages with The Scout Association including all members, staff and volunteers, subcontractors and partnerships. \u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThis policy offers guidance for anyone who has a safeguarding concern or disclosure about the welfare of child, young person or adult at risk, or who wishes to make a safeguarding report about a child, young person, adult at risk, staff member or volunteer.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThis policy makes sure that all volunteers and staff have a clear understanding about their safeguarding responsibility within The Scout Association, in terms of recognising, responding to and reporting concerns, in accordance with the safeguarding process.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThis policy will also make sure that everyone is clear about their responsibility to follow the correct procedures laid out to protect children, young people and adults at risk from harm, and to create a safe space for individuals to have fun, be challenged, and develop skills for life and offer a safe space for them to engage with Scouting.\u003C/p\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Ch3\u003E4. The Yellow Card (Safeguarding Code of Conduct for Adults)\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe \u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safe-scouting-cards/safeguarding-code-of-conduct-for-adults-yellow-card/\u0022 title=\u0022Young People First - Yellow Card\u0022\u003EYellow Card\u003C/a\u003E sets out our Safeguarding Code of Conduct, which all adults in The Scout Association must follow. Where there are concerns that an adult volunteer or staff member has not followed the code of conduct or procedures, the matter must be reported to the UK HQ Safeguarding Team who will co-ordinate any investigation in partnership with the appropriate Lead Volunteer.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe Yellow Card will be reviewed every 2 years.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EIf any adult is unable to understand and/or uphold this Safeguarding Policy and the Yellow Card, or is unable to safeguard children, young people and adults at risk, then they cannot be considered for adult roles.\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Ch3\u003E5. Safeguarding commitments\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe Scout Association is committed to promoting a safe, trusted environment and culture that prioritises safeguarding. All volunteers, staff and trustees will respect children, young people and adults at risk, and establish a culture where we put young people first so they can develop their skills for life. Volunteers, staff and trustees will also provide supportive and safe spaces for everyone involved.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe Scout Association will strive to create and maintain environments which are safe for everyone who has dealings with them.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThese commitments are achieved in the following ways:\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"accordion","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","showExpand":true,"items":[{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EAll volunteers are required to complete their safeguarding and safety learning within 30 days as part of their \u0027Growing Roots learning.\u2019 This is mandatory and must be updated on a regular basis and at least every three years depending on their individual role.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe volunteer has a further five months to complete the rest of their Growing Roots learning which includes creating inclusion, data protection, and who we are and what we do.\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EAll staff members must also complete mandatory safeguarding learning. Scouting roles may be suspended if safeguarding learning expires. It is the responsibility of the individual\u2019s line manager to ensure learning has been undertaken; this is a mandatory HQ requirement.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe Scout Association is committed to making sure that safeguarding learning remains updated and relevant, so that all volunteers and staff members understand their individual and organisational commitment to ensuring that young people\u2019s safety and wellbeing remains a priority.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"5.1 Learning"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003ESafe working practice means working together to create a safe space for all. The Scout Association will offer young people and adults at risk a transparent and open environment where they can develop, learn, explore or volunteer. They can be confident that the \u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safe-scouting-cards/safeguarding-code-of-conduct-for-adults-yellow-card/\u0022 title=\u0022Young People First - Yellow Card\u0022\u003EYellow Card\u003C/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;is embedded within the culture, that challenge is accepted and that the building of open, strong professional relationships is encouraged.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"5.2 Creating safer working practice"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EAnyone who reports any safeguarding concerns or allegations to The Scout Association will be treated with respect. All safeguarding concerns and allegations will be dealt with in accordance with statutory child safeguarding guidance and The Scout Association \u2018safeguarding procedures. All volunteers and staff will cooperate fully with the statutory authorities in all cases. The safeguarding procedures are outlined in the end to end process.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"5.3 Responding promptly to every safeguarding concern or allegation"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EWhenever a safeguarding concern, breach of the \u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safe-scouting-cards/safeguarding-code-of-conduct-for-adults-yellow-card/\u0022 title=\u0022Young People First - Yellow Card\u0022\u003EYellow Card\u003C/a\u003E or report of non-recent abuse is raised, The Scout Association will offer support to all those that have been affected. People will receive a compassionate response, be listened to and be taken seriously. The Scout Association will respond in accordance with this policy and practice guidance. Where appropriate, this will be done in collaboration with the relevant statutory agencies.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"5.4 Treating with respect, care and dignity, the victims of abuse and other safeguarding concerns"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EIn responding to safeguarding concerns or allegations of abuse, The Scout Association will endeavour to respect the rights under criminal and civil law of an accused person. The Scout Association will take responsibility for making sure that steps are taken to protect children, young people and adults at risk when any person is considered a risk to others through the safeguarding process. In addition, The Scout Association recognises people who are subject to safeguarding concerns are vulnerable during any internal or statutory agency process. The Scout Association will take all reasonable steps to support people through this process.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"5.5 Treating with respect, care and dignity, those that are subject of concerns or allegations"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003ESharing information is vital to protect children, young people and adults at risk from suffering or being likely to suffer significant harm. However, information will only be shared with the relevant people and otherwise will be treated with the strictest of confidence to make sure that all individuals involved have trust in the handling of any safeguarding concerns.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"5.6 Confidentiality"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Scout Association acknowledges the emotional impact and distress that can be caused to volunteers when dealing with, witnessing or referring child protection or safeguarding matters. The UK HQ Safeguarding Team, in collaboration with the volunteer line managers, will offer support, guidance and appropriate signposting to any individual who\u2019s been affected. It\u2019s recognised that making a safeguarding report can be difficult, but all volunteers have a duty to report concerns or suspicions and have a right to do so in confidence and free from harassment. All volunteers will be appropriately supported throughout the process if and when required.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe Scout Association\u2019s \u003Ca href=\u0022/about-us/policy/whistleblowing/\u0022 title=\u0022Whistleblowing\u0022\u003Ewhistleblowing policy\u003C/a\u003E is available online if, after reporting a concern, you don\u2019t feel that it\u2019s been adequately dealt with.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"5.7 Support for volunteers"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EKeeping children, young people and adults at risk safe and dealing with all parties involved in any safeguarding enquiry respectfully is of paramount importance. However, The Scout Association recognises that processes and outcomes can and must be improved. The Scout Association is committed to being transparent about learning from these situations through a robust and effective quality assurance and compliance process, which is monitored by the Board of Trustees and checked through independent external scrutiny.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"5.8 The Scout Association will encourage a culture of learning throughout the organisation"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Scout Association recognises the importance of working collaboratively with other organisations external to The Scout Association in order to ensure we maximise our impact on children and young people within the organisation.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWhen working in partnership with other organisations or at other venues, The Scout Association\u0027s priority is the safeguarding of children and young people and our Safeguarding Policy, Code of Conduct for Volunteers and safeguarding procedures will be upheld.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"5.9 The Scout Association will work with other organisations"}]},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch3\u003E6. Equality, diversity and inclusion (including reasonable adjustments)\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWe recognise that the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk is paramount and that everyone, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex and/or sexual orientation (all defined as protected characteristics within the Equality Act 2010) has the right to equal protection from all types of harm or abuse. Working in partnership with children, young people, adults at risk and their family, support network, volunteers and staff is essential in promoting and embedding this policy. This is a national policy and subject to the laws and guidance of England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland; it\u2019s also in-line with the Local Safeguarding Partnerships in England, Wales (previously LSCB) and Scottish and Northern Ireland counterparts. Further information can also be found in The Scout Association \u003Ca href=\u0022/por/2a-key-policies/#2.1\u0022 title=\u00222. Key Policies\u0022 data-anchor=\u0022#2.1\u0022\u003EEqual Opportunities Policy\u003C/a\u003E.\u003C/p\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"accordion","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","showExpand":true,"items":[{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003ESomeone can have complex needs because of learning or physical disabilities, neurodiversity, mental health, acquired brain injury or dementia. This can also be combined with physical health needs, such as epilepsy or sensory issues. Additional needs are when an individual has a difficulty, whether physical, emotional, behavioural, learning disability or impairment which causes them to require additional or specialised services or accommodation, including educational or recreational.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"6.1 What are complex or additional needs?"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EReasonable adjustments should respond to the needs of the individual and remove or reduce any barriers or support access, by making changes to:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EPhysical environment (eg the meeting place).\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EThe way things are done (eg the programme, routines).\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EThe support provided (eg equipment, adapting communication, the level of support).\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThese considerations should be explored in detail, in consultation with the individual and where appropriate, their carer. The situation should be regularly reviewed to make sure that the adjustments are removing barriers to participation, are being implemented effectively and are responding to the needs of the individual. What\u2019s reasonable is dependent upon the effectiveness of the adjustment, whether it can actually be done, and the cost and resources available to the Group at that time. Reasonable adjustments is a legal term which recognises that each Group will have different practical resources to meet the needs of an individual person.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"6.2 What are reasonable adjustments?"}]},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch3\u003E7. Scouts\u2019 safeguarding structure including roles and responsibilities\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EEveryone within The Scout Association must fully understand and implement the safeguarding policies and procedures relevant to their role. To enable this to happen, we have a comprehensive learning programme and a safeguarding structure that makes sure we\u2019re proactively safeguarding across the organisation.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EFull details of the safeguarding structure are listed in Appendix C.\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"accordion","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","showExpand":true,"items":[{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EThe UK HQ Safeguarding Team (staff) sit within the Safe Scouting Department which includes health and safety and safeguarding. They respond to safeguarding reports and advise volunteer line managers on the action required. The Head of Safeguarding is the ultimate source of advice on all safeguarding matters.\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe UK HQ Safeguarding Team is made up of:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ESafe Scouting Administrators\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ESafeguarding Support Officers\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ESafeguarding Officers\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ESafeguarding Support Team Manager\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ESafeguarding Managers\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ENational Safeguarding Operations Manager\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EDeputy Head of Safeguarding\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EHead of Safeguarding\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EThere is also a Safe Scouting Development Team which is made up of a Senior Development Officer and Development Officers.\u00A0\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E","label":"7.1 Staff roles"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAll volunteers:\u003C/strong\u003E Safeguarding is the responsibility of all volunteers and everyone must follow the \u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safe-scouting-cards/safeguarding-code-of-conduct-for-adults-yellow-card/\u0022 title=\u0022Young People First - Yellow Card\u0022\u003ESafeguarding Code of Conduct for Adults (Yellow Card)\u003C/a\u003E.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ELead Volunteers:\u003C/strong\u003E Have the responsibility of appointing appropriate people with the required criminal record check. To take immediate steps in consultation with the UK HQ Safeguarding Team to make sure no Scout activity arises which could cause harm. To suspend where necessary, and to appoint Safeguarding Advisors (see\u00A0\u003Ca href=\u0022/por/1-our-fundamentals/\u0022 title=\u00221. Our Fundamentals\u0022\u003EPOR\u003C/a\u003E).\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EGroup Lead Volunteers and Section Team Leaders (including Explorer Team Leaders):\u003C/strong\u003E To provide a safe space for all activities and events to run safely for all. To be alert, question behaviours, seek advice, support and report safeguarding concerns.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESafeguarding Advisers:\u003C/strong\u003E Provide general advice within their county and specific advice to their County Lead Volunteer and Trustee Board on the implementation of the Safeguarding policy.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETrustees:\u003C/strong\u003E The Scout Association\u2019s Board of Trustees hold the responsibility to make sure this Safeguarding Policy is implemented and working effectively. The trustees delegate this responsibility to the Safeguarding Committee to ensure effective quality assurance, compliance and reporting. The trustees\u2019 full responsibilities are listed in Appendix C.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E","label":"7.2 Adult volunteer roles"}]},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch3\u003E8. Safer recruitment\u00A0\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe Scout Association is committed to making sure that adults who volunteer within Scouts are appropriate candidates. Our priorities are to safeguard children, young people and adults at risk.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ETo achieve this, we\u2019re invested in recruiting the best people and supporting them in their role through our safer recruitment policy.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe Scout Association \u003Cstrong\u003Emakes sure that all volunteers\u003C/strong\u003E:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EUndertake a robust application process, which includes a Welcome Conversation\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EHave to provide a minimum of two references\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EUndertake an induction which clearly explains their role and responsibilities to safeguarding within The Scout Association\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EComplete the appropriate level of learning required for their role\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EComplete appropriate vetting process if required\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Ch3\u003E9. Safeguarding children and young people\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIt\u2019s the responsibility of all adults to make sure that their behaviour is appropriate at all times as laid out in the \u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safe-scouting-cards/safeguarding-code-of-conduct-for-adults-yellow-card/\u0022 title=\u0022Young People First - Yellow Card\u0022\u003ESafeguarding Code of Conduct for Adults\u003C/a\u003E (Yellow Card).\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe Scout Association is committed to:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EWorking with children and young people to ensure a child-centred approach to safeguarding.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EObserving the rules established for the safety and security of children and young people through processes, procedures and guidance provided, promoting and prioritising their safety and wellbeing.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EFollowing the procedures on receipt of any allegations, or concerns raised.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ERecognising the position of trust in which individuals have been placed.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EMaking sure that all children and young people, and specifically those who are vulnerable, are kept safe from harm while involved in any event or activities.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EWorking in partnership with statutory safeguarding agencies and other organisations. The Scout Association will refer an adult volunteer or staff member to a statutory agency if we have significant concerns about their suitability to work with children and young people, or if we have to exclude them from the organisation in line with the \u2018working together to safeguard children\u2019 guidance or the relevant national legislation.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EWhen necessary, sharing information with other organisations about individuals or an incident, even when there\u2019s no concern about abuse or harm. If this happens, The Scout Association will only share information with the explicit consent of the individuals concerned or if there\u2019s a duty to refer.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EEngaging with statutory agencies. Sometimes The Scout Association will need to refer matters without the consent of the child and parent/carer. This is done in circumstances where a statutory agency requests we do so because they\u2019re undertaking a wider investigation or where there may be concerns that a child or young person may be harmed if the parent/carer is informed. In all cases, the relevant legislation pertinent to where the young person lives or the location of any alleged offence informs The Scout Association action.\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u2018Wales\u2019 safeguarding procedures are not statutory guidance, but good practice. The Scout Association current \u2018duty to report\u2019, set out in the \u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safe-scouting-cards/safeguarding-code-of-conduct-for-adults-yellow-card/\u0022 title=\u0022Young People First - Yellow Card\u0022\u003EYellow Card\u003C/a\u003E (Safeguarding Code of Conduct for Adults), discharges an individual\u2019s expectation to report.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ETaking all measures to strengthen and improve our practice. Our practice is subject to a regular cycle of review and we\u2019ll communicate this through a robust and comprehensive learning package and updates, which all members must keep up to date with.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EUnderstanding that some people may not report abuse endured at the time it occurred, especially if the abuse happened while they were a child. We\u2019d encourage anyone who feels they have an allegation or a concern from the past to come forward and talk directly to the UK HQ Safeguarding Team. All conversations will be dealt with sensitively and only shared to ensure the on-going safety of children. Sometimes we may report to statutory or other appropriate agencies if a child may be currently at harm or if a crime\u2019s been committed. This will be fully explained to the individual and the UK HQ Safeguarding Team will offer support throughout the process.\u00A0\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"accordion","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","showExpand":false,"items":[{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003ESafeguarding practice isn\u2019t just about having a child protection process, but a way of working that\u2019s embedded in everything The Scout Association do and the way that we do it. As such, all volunteers and staff must make sure the following happens, whatever part of the organisation they work in:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EThat all children, young people and parents/carers have all the information they need to make an informed decision before choosing whether to participate in activities, events, trips and overseas visits.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EThat ALL electronic communication between adults and children or young people follows strict guidelines so that we don\u2019t place anyone at risk of harm. There must be no individual electronic/social media communication between an adult and a child or young person. All such communication should be within a group, age appropriate and with more than one adult engaged within the communication. The Yellow Card (Safeguarding Code of Conduct for Adults) must be followed in both offline and online activities. Our \u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/supporting-young-people/online-safety/\u0022 title=\u0022Digital Safeguarding\u0022\u003EDigital Safeguarding guidance\u003C/a\u003E provides further information about\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EUse of instant messaging services, social media and emails\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ESafety on live video calls\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EPhotography, video and audio recording at Scout events\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EThat we encourage volunteers and staff to discuss their concerns with the UK HQ Safeguarding Team.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EThat children and young people have access to adults that they trust and are clear on how to report their concerns.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EThat young leaders are regarded as \u003Cstrong\u003Eyoung people\u003C/strong\u003E under the terms of this policy and managed accordingly. Any young person in a leadership role must have full understanding of and be able to uphold their responsibilities highlighted within the \u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safe-scouting-cards/safeguarding-code-of-conduct-for-young-leaders-orange-card/\u0022 title=\u0022Young People First - Orange Card\u0022\u003EOrange Card \u003C/a\u003E(Safeguarding Code of Conduct for Young Leaders) and have the capacity to understand the information.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EThat all adults working with children must familiarise themselves with all of The Scout Association\u2019s safeguarding, safety and associated policies and procedures, which are updated when required.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EAdults must not consume alcohol when they\u2019re directly responsible for children or young people on a Scouts activity and must not permit anyone aged under 18 to purchase or consume alcohol. Drinking alcohol can put adults in a compromising position regarding their responsibilities for safeguarding and their duty of care. Anyone drinking alcohol when \u2018off duty\u2019 should consider how alcohol may affect their ability to carry out their Scouting role when back \u2018on duty\u2019 and correct ratios must always be adhered to. (See the \u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safe-scouting-cards/scouting-and-alcohol/\u0022 title=\u0022Scouting and alcohol\u0022\u003EGreen Card\u003C/a\u003E for more information and guidance.)\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EThe use of any illegal substances on Scout activities is against the law and appropriate safeguarding action will be taken where necessary by the responsible Lead Volunteers. Headquarters will support and issue additional guidance on request.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ESex and relationships \u2013 See \u2018\u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/supporting-young-people/healthy-relationships/\u0022 title=\u0022Healthy relationships\u0022\u003EHealthy relationships\u003C/a\u003E\u2019 which clearly outlines the role and responsibilities for leaders when talking to children and young people wihtin Scouts about healthy relationships and sex\u00A0\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EWhen working with partner organisations, a term of our agreement will be that the third party state: \u2018\u003Cstrong\u003EWe confirm that we have read and understood The Scout Association\u2019s Safeguarding policy and agree to abide by it.\u003C/strong\u003E\u2019\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIt is everyone\u2019s duty to report ALL safeguarding concerns whether disclosed directly or indirectly as soon as possible (always within 24 hours). If you are unsure what to do, or you are not sure if a report has been made to the UK HQ Safeguarding Team regarding a concern, contact the UK HQ Safeguarding Team.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIf you\u2019re in doubt of what to do, contact the UK HQ Safeguarding Team. If a child or young person is at immediate risk of significant harm call 999 and request the police. Contact details of the UK HQ Safeguarding Team are found in the reporting form (Appendix D).\u003C/p\u003E","label":"9.1 Our way of working"}]},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch3\u003E10. Safeguarding adults at risk\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe principles of safeguarding adults at risk are:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEmpowerment\u003C/strong\u003E \u2013 putting people first and helping all feel involved and informed.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EProtection\u003C/strong\u003E \u2013 supporting individuals so they can take action.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPrevention\u003C/strong\u003E \u2013 responding quickly to \u00A0safeguarding concerns.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EProportionality\u003C/strong\u003E \u2013 making sure what we do is appropriate to the situation and for the individual.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPartnership\u003C/strong\u003E \u2013 sharing the right information in the right way.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAccountability\u003C/strong\u003E \u2013 making sure all volunteers, staff and trustees have a clear role when dealing with adults at risk.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EAlthough children, young people and adults at risk can experience the same types of harm and the causes are often similar, adults at risk have a right to make a choice in regards to The Scout Association\u2019s actions. Where a child has suffered or is at risk of suffering significant harm, statutory agencies will be informed, whether the parents/carers are in agreement or not. Sometimes adults at risk may not wish for statutory agencies to be informed.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ETherefore concerns about adults at risk must be referred into the UK HQ Safeguarding Team, and they\u2019ll assess the concern, liaise and take appropriate action.\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EIf any adult is unable to understand and/or uphold this Safeguarding Policy and the Yellow Card (Safeguarding Code of Conduct for Adults), or is unable to safeguard children, young people and adults at risk, then they cannot be considered for adult roles.\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EThe Scout Association also has a \u003Ca href=\u0022/about-us/policy/whistleblowing/\u0022 title=\u0022Whistleblowing\u0022\u003Ewhistleblowing process\u003C/a\u003E if you feel you aren\u2019t being listened to.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EThe Scout Association\u2019s mandatory safeguarding learning includes information about adults at risk and how to recognise safeguarding concerns. All safeguarding concerns must be reported to the UK HQ Safeguarding Team.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EThere are variants across the nations, for the purposes of Scouts, an adult at risk is an individual who has reached the age of 18 years (see Appendix A).\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"accordion","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","showExpand":true,"items":[{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EAn adult at risk who\u2019s aged between 18 and 25 years old can be a member of the Scout Network, which means they can access activities such as camps and international development with the explicit agreement of the District or County Lead Volunteer.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIf someone within this age range is a member of a group within a Special Educational Needs (SEN) school with sufficient interest and participants, a consideration can be made to create a Network group within the school.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EConsultation with the responsible Lead Volunteer would be required. Permission should be logged and be subject to annual review. Additional assessment, learning and, in some cases, vetting checks, may need to be implemented. This may only occur in exceptional circumstances and only with clear written permissions. See Safer Recruitment on the website and POR.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"10.1 An adult at risk who\u2019s aged between 18 and 25 years old"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EAn adult at risk who reaches their 25th birthday may take on a new role in Scouts, subject to the agreement of the relevant Lead Volunteer. It\u2019s not possible to remain a member of the Scout Network outside of these options. Every effort should be made to signpost using the information found online.\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E","label":"10.2 An adult at risk who reaches their 25th birthday"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EAn adult at risk who holds a role in a position of trust, who is temporarily incapacitated, e.g. has a period of poor mental health or sudden onset of illness, should be asked to step down temporarily under the support of the District or County Lead Volunteer. If this is a long-term situation then advice should be sought from the UK HQ Safeguarding Team, but consideration should be given to withdrawal based on their ability to safeguard children and young people in their care. Advice should always be sought from the UK HQ Safeguarding Team and the individual\u2019s line management team.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"10.3 An adult at risk"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EIt\u2019s the policy of The Scout Association that all adult volunteers, which includes carers, must have the appropriate criminal record check for the role and the regulated activity they\u2019re undertaking.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIn line with our safer recruitment and safeguarding policies, a member must not undertake a role until they\u2019ve successfully:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ECompleted the relevant recruitment checks for that role; and\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ECompleted the required learning for that role.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIn addition, no individual should be expected to undertake a role that they don\u2019t feel comfortable with.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"10.4 How do we make sure adults are safe to work with adults at risk?"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EThe definition of regulated activity is different for children and adults. The definition of regulated activity for adults at risk focuses on the type of activity and contact an individual may have with the adult. Unlike the definition of regulated activity with children, the definition for adults does not stipulate a frequency requirement. For adults at risk, the activity alone means an individual is in regulated activity and one instance is enough to qualify.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIf you\u0027re asked to undertake activities that may fall within the scope of what is called intimate care then you should discuss with the responsible Lead Volunteer to check you\u2019re correctly vetted and have completed the required learning. Otherwise you must not undertake those activities.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"10.5 Adults at risk and regulated activity"}]},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch3\u003E11. Types of abuse and exploitation\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EAbuse is a form of maltreatment of a child, young person or adult at risk. Somebody may abuse or neglect a child, young person or adult at risk by inflicting harm, or by failing to act to prevent harm. Harm can include maltreatment that is not physical as well as the impact of witnessing ill treatment of others. This can be particularly relevant, for example, in relation to the impact on children of all forms of domestic abuse. Children, young people and adult at risks may be abused in a family or in an institutional or community setting by those known to them or, more rarely, by others. Abuse can take place wholly offline, or technology may be used to facilitate online abuse. Children may be abused by an adult or adults, or another child or children.\u003C/p\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"accordion","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","showExpand":true,"items":[{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDiscrimination\u003C/strong\u003E: When someone is targeted because of a difference, eg race, sex, gender, age, disability, religion or belief, sexual preference, appearance or cultural background, pregnancy and maternity, marriage or civil partnership.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDomestic abuse\u003C/strong\u003E: Domestic abuse can encompass a wide range of behaviours and may be a single incident or a pattern of incidents. Domestic abuse is not limited to physical acts of violence or threatening behaviour, and can include emotional, psychological, controlling or coercive behaviour, sexual and/or economic abuse. Types of domestic abuse include intimate partner violence, abuse by family members, teenage relationship abuse and adolescent to parent violence. Anyone can be a victim of domestic abuse, regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, socio-economic status, sexuality or background and domestic abuse can take place inside or outside of the home.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEmotional/psychological abuse\u003C/strong\u003E: The persistent emotional maltreatment of a child such as to cause severe and persistent adverse effects on the child\u2019s emotional development. It may involve conveying to a child that they are worthless or unloved, inadequate, or valued only insofar as they meet the needs of another person. It may include not giving the child opportunities to express their views, deliberately silencing them or \u2018making fun\u2019 of what they say or how they communicate. It may feature age or developmentally inappropriate expectations being imposed on children. These may include interactions that are beyond a child\u2019s developmental capability, as well as overprotection and limitation of exploration and learning, or preventing the child participating in normal social interaction. It may involve seeing or hearing the ill-treatment of another. It may involve serious bullying (including cyber bullying), causing children frequently to feel frightened or in danger, or the exploitation or corruption of children. Some level of emotional abuse is involved in all types of maltreatment of a child, though it may occur alone.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFinancial abuse\u003C/strong\u003E: The theft or control of a person\u2019s property or assets.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ENeglect/acts of omission\u003C/strong\u003E: The persistent failure to meet a child\u2019s basic physical and/or psychological needs, likely to result in the serious impairment of the child\u2019s health or development. Neglect may occur during pregnancy as a result of maternal substance abuse. Once a child is born, neglect may involve a parent or carer failing to: a. provide adequate food, clothing and shelter (including exclusion from home or abandonment) b. protect a child from physical and emotional harm or danger c. ensure adequate supervision (including the use of inadequate caregivers) d. ensure access to appropriate medical care or treatment It may also include neglect of, or unresponsiveness to, a child\u2019s basic emotional needs.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EOrganisational/institutional abuse\u003C/strong\u003E: Where an organisation fails to prevent repeated maltreatment, abuse or neglect of children, young people or adults at risk.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EChild-on-child abuse\u003C/strong\u003E: Children and young people can also be abusers of other children, usually through bullying, sexual abuse, physical abuse, issues online, youth produced sexual images or any form of initiation.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPhysical abuse\u003C/strong\u003E: A form of abuse which may involve hitting, shaking, throwing, poisoning, burning or scalding, drowning, suffocating or otherwise causing physical harm to a child. Physical harm may also be caused when a parent or carer fabricates the symptoms of, or deliberately induces, illness in a child.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESexual abuse\u003C/strong\u003E: Involves forcing or enticing a child or young person to take part in sexual activities, not necessarily involving a high level of violence, whether or not the child is aware of what is happening. The activities may involve physical contact, including assault by penetration (for example, rape or oral sex) or non-penetrative acts such as masturbation, kissing, rubbing and touching outside of clothing. They may also include non-contact activities, such as involving children in looking at, or in the production of, sexual images, watching sexual activities, encouraging children to behave in sexually inappropriate ways, or grooming a child in preparation for abuse. Sexual abuse can take place online, and technology can be used to facilitate offline abuse. Sexual abuse is not solely perpetrated by adult males. Women can also commit acts of sexual abuse, as can other children.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E","label":"There are several types of abuse:"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EExploitation is when someone is used for financial gain, sexual gratification, labour or personal advantage:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EChild Sexual Exploitation\u003C/strong\u003E: a form of child sexual abuse. It occurs where an individual or group takes advantage of an imbalance of power to coerce, manipulate or deceive a child or young person under the age of 18 into sexual activity (a) in exchange for something the victim needs or wants, and/or (b) for the financial advantage or increased status of the perpetrator or facilitator. The victim may have been sexually exploited even if the sexual activity appears consensual. Child sexual exploitation does not always involve physical contact; it can also occur through the use of technology.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EChild Criminal Exploitation\u003C/strong\u003E: where an individual or group takes advantage of an imbalance of power to coerce, control, manipulate or deceive a child or young person into any criminal activity (a) in exchange for something the victim needs or wants, and/or (b) for the financial or other advantage of the perpetrator or facilitator and/or (c) through violence or the threat of violence. Child criminal exploitation does not always involve physical contact; it can also occur through the use of technology.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECounty lines\u003C/strong\u003E: a term used to describe gangs and organised criminal networks involved in exporting illegal drugs into one or more importing areas within the UK, using dedicated mobile phone lines or other form of \u2018deal line\u2019. They are likely to exploit children and vulnerable adults to move and store the drugs and money, and they will often use coercion, intimidation, violence (including sexual violence) and weapons.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EGang\u003C/strong\u003E: A group of people of any age with a defined leadership and internal organisation. They identify with, or claim control over, territory in a community and engage either individually or collectively in illegal and possibly violent behaviour.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EModern slavery/human trafficking\u003C/strong\u003E: Includes forced labour, domestic servitude, coercion, deceiving or forcing an individual into a life or abuse/servitude such as drug running.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESexual\u003C/strong\u003E: Where individuals are coerced into any form of sexual activity by power, money or status.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E","label":"There are several types of exploitation:"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAddiction\u003C/strong\u003E: The inability to stop a particular behaviour such as drinking alcohol, taking drugs, or gambling. This addiction can impact relationships, health, finances and career. Addiction often co-occurs with other issues and it can make people vulnerable to coercion and/or mental health issues.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBullying\u003C/strong\u003E: Is a pattern of behaviour that can be threatening, aggressive, intimidating, abusive, insulting, offensive, cruel, vindictive, humiliating, degrading or demeaning. It can happen between children, young people, adults, in groups or singularly. It can happen within the \u2018real world\u2019 or online.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECyberbullying (online bullying)\u003C/strong\u003E: Happens across social media networks, when gaming or via mobile phones. Examples can include posting offensive material, and spreading rumours or embarrassing images.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDrug or alcohol misuse\u003C/strong\u003E: Is a pattern of behaviour which changes or alters the mood or mental state of an individual. Not all substances that can cause harm are illegal but should not be permitted within the context of The Scout Association. Find further \u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/supporting-young-people/alcohol-drugs-and-smoking/\u0022 title=\u0022Alcohol, drugs and smoking\u0022\u003Eguidance regarding drugs\u003C/a\u003E here.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EGrooming\u003C/strong\u003E: An abuser may make every effort to build a trusting relationship with the child, young person or adult at risk, and will often befriend or seek to maintain the respect of friends and colleagues.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EHarmful traditional practices:\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECorporal punishment\u003C/strong\u003E: Defined by the Committee on the Rights of the Child as any punishment in which physical force is used and intended to cause some degree of pain.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEarly child marriage\u003C/strong\u003E: Marriage of a child (under the legal age to wed) to another person.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EForced marriage\u003C/strong\u003E: When someone\u2019s forced into a marriage without their consent, where violence or threats are used in the form of coercion to this end. This practice is illegal in the UK.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFemale Genital Mutilation (FGM)\u003C/strong\u003E: Refers to a procedure which intentionally alters or causes injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons and without their informed consent. It can occur in the UK or an individual may be taken outside of the UK. It is illegal in the UK.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHonour based violence\u003C/strong\u003E: When incidents or crimes are committed to protect or defend the family or community\u2019s honour.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EScarification\u003C/strong\u003E: refers to someone making superficial incisions on another person\u2019s skin usually by using a knife, stone or piece of glass.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESelf-harm\u003C/strong\u003E: Deliberately causing harm to yourself by either hurting or putting yourself in harm\u2019s way. Self-harm is mainly a coping strategy which young people adopt to release emotional stress.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESelf-neglect\u003C/strong\u003E: The failure to care for yourself, eg personal hygiene, health or environment.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESexting (including youth produced sexual images)\u003C/strong\u003E: When someone shares sexual, naked or semi-naked images of themselves or others or sends sexually explicit pictures. Sharing, possession or distribution of such images of a person under the age of 18 is illegal in the UK. There are also criminal offences in regards to adults posting sexual images of other adults in certain circumstances.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E","label":"There are also the following types of harm:\u00A0"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EThe signs of child abuse can be hard to spot as they aren\u0027t always obvious, and a child or young person might not feel able to tell anyone what\u0027s happening to them. Sometimes, children and young people don\u0027t even realise that what\u0027s happening to them is abuse.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThere are different types of child abuse and the signs that a child is being abused may depend on the type. For example, the signs that a child is being neglected may be different from the signs that a child is being abused sexually.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ESome common signs that there may be something concerning happening in a child\u2019s life include:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003Eunexplained changes in behaviour or personality.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003Ebecoming withdrawn.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003Eseeming anxious.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003Ebecoming uncharacteristically aggressive.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003Elacks social skills and has few friends, if any.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003Epoor bond or relationship with a parent.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003Eknowledge of adult issues inappropriate for their age.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003Erunning away or going missing.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003Ealways choosing to wear clothes which cover their body.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThese signs don\u2019t necessarily mean that a child is being abused, there could be other things happening in their life which are affecting their behaviour.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EYou may also notice some concerning behaviour from adults who you know have children in their care, which makes you concerned for the child/children\u2019s safety and wellbeing.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIf you have concerns you can discuss them with the UK HQ Safeguarding Team who will help assess the situation.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"11.1 Signs and indicators of abuse"}]},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch3\u003E12. Specialist areas of safeguarding\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ESafeguarding is an underpinning principle of everything we do in The Scout Association. Sometimes a particular aspect of working with children, young people and adults at risk is not in itself a safeguarding issue but may need to be managed by utilising safeguarding processes.\u003C/p\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"accordion","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","showExpand":true,"items":[{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EThe concept of \u2018mental capacity\u2019 to make informed safeguarding decisions\u202F.\u00A0\u003Cbr\u003E\u00A0\u003Cbr\u003EMental capacity is a legal term and is contained in the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and the Mental Capacity Act Code of Practice, which is statutory guidance.\u202F\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EMental capacity is assessed in relation to the particular decision which needs to be made. This means that whether a person has mental capacity to make a particular decision or not has to be considered on an individual basis in the light of the circumstances at the time. You mustn\u2019t just make a conclusion that someone lacks mental capacity generally. If a person lacks the capacity to make this particular decision, then someone else (usually their parent/carer) may be able to make that decision for them.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EAdvice should be sought from the Safeguarding Team if there are concerns regarding mental capacity.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EA person must be assumed to have capacity to make decisions that affect them unless there\u2019s evidence that they\u2019re not able to make the relevant decision.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ESomeone\u2019s treated as being unable to make a decision if they\u2019re not able:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ETo understand the information relevant to the decision,\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ETo retain that information,\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ETo use or weigh that information as part of the process of making the decision, or\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ETo communicate their decision (using the most appropriate method to ensure effective communication).\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EAll practical steps should be taken to help them make the decision.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EBefore concluding that an individual\u2019s unable to make a decision, all practical steps should be taken to help them make the decision. Importantly, the Mental Capacity Act is clear that a person isn\u2019t to be treated as unable to make a decision merely because they make an unwise decision, have a disability or are assumed to not be able to because of their individual needs. If an individual lacks capacity to make a particular decision, the person making the decision on their behalf may, when appropriate, act in the individual\u2019s best interests.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"12.1 Mental capacity"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EMental wellbeing is how an individual copes with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and can make a contribution to their community. Anyone can experience good or poor mental wellbeing at any point in their lives.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EMental health problems may vary in terms of strength and frequency of re-occurrence; they can take the form of an occasional crisis or a steady state over many years. Some individuals with a mental health issue can be at risk as they develop potentially harmful coping strategies, e.g. anxiety attacks, self-harm or suicidal ideation. There may be a small risk in terms of aggressive behaviour.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWe recognise The Scout Association has a legal duty under the Equality Act 2010 to ensure accessibility for all, but also that The Scout Association provides opportunities for children and young people to get together, build connections and friendships and provide peer support among themselves. This can help to build tolerance and empathy amongst children and young people and can be particularly powerful for groups of children and young people known to be at risk of developing mental health problems. The Scout Association seeks to encourage any person who is facing mental health problems to talk to their leaders or volunteer line managers around how The Scout Association can better support them in their Scouting journey. Supporting children, young people or adults at risk with mental health issues and assessing any risk to them or others is part of our wider safeguarding duties.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"12.2 Mental wellbeing"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EProtecting children and young people from the risk of radicalisation is seen as part of The Scout Association\u2019s wider safeguarding duties and is similar in nature to protecting children and young people from other grooming behaviours. Volunteers and staff should be able to identify children who may be vulnerable to radicalisation and know what to do when they are identified. We seek to build children and young people\u2019s resilience to radicalisation by promoting our Scout values and enable them to challenge extremist views within the youth programme.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIt\u2019s important to emphasise that we don\u2019t seek to control or preclude open discussion of controversial issues. Groups should provide a safe space in which children and young people can understand the risks associated with radicalisation and develop the knowledge and skills to be able to challenge extremist arguments and indoctrination. While we don\u2019t have a legal duty under the Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015 to have \u2018due regard to the need to prevent people from being drawn into terrorism\u2019 (\u003Ca rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 href=\u0022https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/prevent-duty-guidance\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022 title=\u0022Prevent duty guidance (GOV.uk)\u0022\u003Ethe Prevent duty\u003C/a\u003E), we take all aspects of the safety and welfare of our young people seriously.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ERadicalisation can occur within any community if extremist views are left unchallenged.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EYou can get further information on radicalisation from \u003Ca rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 href=\u0022https://actearly.uk/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022 title=\u0022Act Early homepage\u0022\u003EACT Early and training available through the government PREVENT e-learning training package\u003C/a\u003E. Don\u0027t forget that any concern for a Scouts member relating to radicalisation must be reported to the UK HQ Safeguarding Team.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"12.3 Radicalisation"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Scout Association is an organisation that places value in our inclusivity and actively promotes our equal opportunities policy. The Scout Association welcomes members regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Transgender or \u2018trans\u2019 is an umbrella term used to describe people whose gender is not the same as, or does not sit comfortably with, the sex they were assigned at birth. A person may live or be considering living in their self-identified gender; going through what\u2019s known as transition, being known by a different name, wearing different clothes and/or concealing parts of their body. The person may or may not decide to have gender reassignment to permanently alter their body to match their self-identified gender. A person may call themselves transgender or \u2018trans\u2019 for short. However, they may simply live as their acquired gender and not want others to know they are transgender.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EA person of any age over 18 years may choose to apply for a Gender Recognition Certificate (GRC), as a legal recognition of their acquired gender. This isn\u2019t compulsory and is often not applied for. The Scout Association recognises the importance and benefit of supporting an individual, either adult or young person, who\u2019s transitioning or identifies as transgender. It\u2019s important to recognise that a trans person is at particular risk of physical, sexual and emotional abuse.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ESimilar to many individuals, a trans person may seek support and access to networks of those sharing similar views and feelings online (for further information, see Supporting trans young people). The same principle applies when supporting young people who identify as non-binary or gender neutral.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWe\u2019re an inclusive organisation and encourage all members to talk to their leaders or volunteer line managers around how The Scout Association can better support them.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIf any volunteer or staff member has a concern in regard to any of these areas, contact the UK HQ Safeguarding Team for advice and guidance. Contact information can be found on the website,\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safe-scouting-cards/safeguarding-code-of-conduct-for-adults-yellow-card/\u0022 title=\u0022Young People First - Yellow Card\u0022\u003EYellow Card\u003C/a\u003E and on the \u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/reporting-a-concern-to-safeguarding/\u0022 title=\u0022Reporting a concern to safeguarding\u0022\u003Esafeguarding reporting form\u003C/a\u003E.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"12.4 Transitioning/gender identity"}]},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch3\u003E13. Pre-existing relationships\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThrough this Policy, we aim to ensure that there is clarity and transparency about pre-existing relationships, and appropriate measures are taken to keep people safe.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWhere there is the potential for young people to turn 18 during a scouting event or activity, the leaders of the event or activity must make participants aware of this policy and the steps to be taken prior to its commencement.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe \u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safe-scouting-cards/safeguarding-code-of-conduct-for-adults-yellow-card/\u0022 title=\u0022Young People First - Yellow Card\u0022\u003EYellow Card\u003C/a\u003E states, \u2018Do not overstep the boundaries between yourself and children or young people by engaging in friendships or sexual relationships.\u2019 This is an important factor to prevent any breaches of the position of trust, to make sure that all volunteers act appropriately toward young people to prevent grooming and child abuse occurring. However, in line with section 24 of the Sexual Offences Act 2002, there are circumstances where a pre-existing relationship will be accepted.\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"accordion","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","showExpand":true,"items":[{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EThe circumstances are as follows:\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EThe relationship is consensual, and\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003Ean 18-year-old (Adult) has become an adult volunteer or Network member, and\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003Ethe relationship is with a youth member within Scouts who is aged over 16 that began prior to the individual taking on the role as leader or becoming Network member, and\u0026nbsp;\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003Ethe adult has informed their line manager and local lead volunteer of the pre-existing relationship prior to taking their role or becoming a Network member.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIn the above circumstances, the line manager and local lead volunteer must be notified and satisfy themselves that the above conditions are in place. A meeting must be held with the youth member and their parent/carer to make sure that there\u2019s a full understanding of the situation and agree any restrictions that are deemed necessary to be put in place. An agreement will be undertaken and strictly adhered to that the adult will not volunteer or be placed in a position of trust in the Group or Unit, that the youth member that they\u2019re in a relationship with attends.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"13.1 Circumstances"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EWhere a pre-existing relationship has been disclosed as defined above and both the adult and youth member wish to attend the same scouting activity, the following will apply:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EAll pre-existing relationships where there will be an over 18 and an under 18 at any point, from planning stage to the end of the event must be disclosed to the line manager, local lead volunteer and event organisers at the earliest opportunity.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EParents and Carers for any individual under 18 to which this policy applies, must be consulted with by the Lead Volunteer, specifically in relation to the activity detail to agree any safeguarding measures to be taken and authorise attendance with full knowledge of the pre-existing relationship.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EShould participants not be willing to disclose a pre-existing relationship to parents or carers then they will not be able to attend the activity together.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EAll involved will be explicitly reminded of their obligations in relation to the Safeguarding Policy and \u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safe-scouting-cards/safeguarding-code-of-conduct-for-adults-yellow-card/\u0022 title=\u0022Young People First - Yellow Card\u0022\u003EYellow Card\u003C/a\u003E. Under no circumstances will the sharing of accommodation be permitted at any stage of an event, including the planning stages, between under and over 18-year-old participants regardless of any pre-existing relationship.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EAll involved will ensure their interactions, actions and behaviours both online and when attending scouting activity together in a pre-existing relationship are appropriate and do not bring the movement into disrepute.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EThe over 18 adults will not be permitted to be in a leadership position or position of trust with responsibility for the person they are in a pre-existing relationship with at any scouting activity.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EThe UK HQ Safeguarding Team can provide guidance if further mitigations or considerations are required. These next steps may include (but not be limited to):\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EDevelopment of specific case mitigations and action plans\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EDiscussing with the adult participants agreed behaviour and boundaries during the event.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EWhere it is deemed mitigation of any risk is not possible the adult will not be permitted to attend the event.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EAny concerns that this guidance is not being followed, and may be being abused, must be reported to the UK HQ Safeguarding Team.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThis exception to the \u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safe-scouting-cards/safeguarding-code-of-conduct-for-adults-yellow-card/\u0022 title=\u0022Young People First - Yellow Card\u0022\u003EYellow Card\u003C/a\u003E can only be used in the specific circumstances stated and strict adherence of this must be monitored to avoid abuse in the guise of a pre-existing relationship. A framework for conversations regarding pre-existing relationships is in Appendix E.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIf any volunteer or staff member has a concern regarding any of these areas, contact the UK HQ Safeguarding Team\u0026nbsp;for advice and guidance.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"13.2 Pre-Existing Relationships and Attendance at Scouting Activities"}]},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch3\u003E14. Procedures for reporting a safeguarding concern\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe \u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safe-scouting-cards/safeguarding-code-of-conduct-for-adults-yellow-card/\u0022 title=\u0022Young People First - Yellow Card\u0022\u003EYellow Card\u003C/a\u003E (Safeguarding Code of Conduct for Adults) states that everyone has a duty to report safeguarding concerns and volunteers must follow this Code of Conduct. \u00A0It outlines the procedures for volunteers to follow if they are concerned about the welfare of a child or young person, adult or themselves, inside or outside of Scouting. The first point of contact for reporting a concern is the Safeguarding Team.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe Yellow Card states:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIt is your duty to report all safeguarding concerns, whether you are told about them directly or indirectly, as soon as possible (always within 24 hours). If you are not sure what to do, or you are not sure if a concern has been reported, contact the Safeguarding Team.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E1. Gather the necessary information. Make sure that you have the name, date of birth, address and phone number of each person involved with the concern.\u00A0Find out when the people involved will next be at a Scout meeting or activity.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E2. Contact the Safeguarding Team.\u00A0Use the \u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/reporting-a-concern-to-safeguarding/\u0022 title=\u0022Reporting a concern to safeguarding\u0022\u003Ereporting form\u003C/a\u003E on the Scouts website to report the concern to the Safeguarding Team. Include as much information as possible.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIf you can\u2019t fill in the form online, call \u002B44(0)20 8433 7164 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday) or email \u003Ca rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 href=\u0022mailto:safeguarding@scouts.org.uk\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022 title=\u0022Scouts Safeguarding email\u0022\u003Esafeguarding@scouts.org.uk\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIn an emergency outside the above times, you can contact the Safeguarding Team by calling the \u003Ca href=\u0022/contact-us/\u0022 title=\u0022Contact us\u0022\u003EScouts Support Centre\u003C/a\u003E on \u002B44(0)345 300 1818.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EFollow the Safeguarding Team\u2019s advice and take no further action unless they tell you to.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EAsk questions if you\u2019re not sure what to do. If a child or young person is at immediate risk of harm call 999 or 112 and ask for Police.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ETell the Safeguarding Team you have done this.\u00A0You can also contact the NSPCC on 0808 800 5000 or \u003Ca rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 href=\u0022mailto:help@nspcc.org.uk\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022 title=\u0022Email NSPCC\u0022\u003Ehelp@nspcc.org.uk\u003C/a\u003E.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u2018Wales\u2019 safeguarding procedures are not statutory guidance, but good practice. The Scout Association\u0027s current \u2018duty to report\u2019, set out in the Yellow Card, discharges an individual\u2019s expectation to report.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThese procedures are the same, regardless of whether a concern took place offline or online.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIf individuals are concerned that the response to their report of a safeguarding concern is unsatisfactory, given the level of concern, they can contact the \u003Ca rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 href=\u0022https://www.nspcc.org.uk/keeping-children-safe/reporting-abuse/dedicated-helplines/whistleblowing-advice-line/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022 title=\u0022Whistleblowing Advice Line (NSPCC)\u0022\u003ENSPCC Whistleblowing Advice Line\u003C/a\u003E on 0800 028 0285 or email \u003Ca rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 href=\u0022mailto:help@nspcc.org.uk\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022 title=\u0022Email NSPCC\u0022\u003Ehelp@nspcc.org.uk\u003C/a\u003E.\u003C/p\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"accordion","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","showExpand":false,"items":[{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EWhether abuse is recent or happened a long time ago, it\u2019s never too late to report it and volunteers must report any concern to the Safeguarding Team. Anyone can\u00A0\u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/reporting-a-concern-to-safeguarding/reporting-non-recent-child-abuse/\u0022 title=\u0022Reporting non-recent child abuse\u0022\u003Ereport non-recent abuse\u003C/a\u003E, including anonymously, by using the \u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/reporting-a-concern-to-safeguarding/\u0022 title=\u0022Reporting a concern to safeguarding\u0022\u003EOnline Safeguarding Reporting Form\u003C/a\u003E, speaking to the Safeguarding Team, using the \u003Ca href=\u0022/about-us/policy/whistleblowing/\u0022 title=\u0022Whistleblowing\u0022\u003EWhistleblowing Policy\u003C/a\u003E or through the \u003Ca rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 href=\u0022https://www.nspcc.org.uk/keeping-children-safe/reporting-abuse/dedicated-helplines/whistleblowing-advice-line/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022 title=\u0022Whistleblowing Advice Line (NSPCC)\u0022\u003ENSPCC Whistleblowing Advice Line\u003C/a\u003E.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EReporting can stop the offender abusing other children or young people, so the Safeguarding Team will report all reports non-recent abuse to the police and the local authority.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWe appreciate the bravery it takes to consider talking about an experience of abuse. We take all reports of abuse seriously and want to support victims and survivors.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"14.1 Procedures for reporting a non-recent safeguarding concern"}]},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch3\u003E15. Procedures for responding to the report of a safeguarding concern\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe Yellow Card states:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIf a child or young person tells you about a concern, you must do the following.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Col\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EAllow them to speak without interruption, and accept what they say.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EBe understanding and reassuring, but do not give your opinion.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ETell them you will try to help but must pass the information on.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EWrite careful notes of what was said using the actual words used. Don\u2019t ask leading questions or try to find out whether the concern is justified.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EMake sure that Scout activities do not cause further risk to their welfare.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EContact the Safeguarding Team.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ol\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWhere an individual discloses a safeguarding concern about a parent or carer and a risk of harm may be present, volunteers must not inform the parent or carer unless the Safeguarding Team advises to do so. If no risk of harm is present to the child or young person, it may be appropriate for volunteers to talk to parents and carers about concerns involving their child, for example, where there may be a need for early help.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIf a child or young person is at immediate risk of harm or needs urgent medical attention, volunteers must call 999 or 112 and ask for Police and/or an ambulance. They must then inform the Safeguarding Team they have done this. They may also contact the NSPCC on 0808 800 5000 or \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:help@nspcc.org.uk\u0022\u003Ehelp@nspcc.org.uk\u003C/a\u003E.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EAfter receiving a report of a safeguarding concern, the Safeguarding Support Team creates a secure record of the concern in The Scout Association safeguarding case management system. The concern is triaged and risk assessed by the Duty Safeguarding Team. \u00A0The allocated Safeguarding Manager will identify the appropriate route for further action, where appropriate, in consultation with a \u00A0National Safeguarding Operations Manager, Social Services, Local Authority Designated Officer (or Designated Officer or equivalent) or Police and will allocate relevant actions to a Safeguarding Officer. Where a child or young person may be at risk of significant harm or it is alleged that a criminal offence has taken place or may be at risk of taking place, the allocated Safeguarding Officer will refer to statutory agencies within 24 hours. This includes out of office hours. The Safeguarding Team may consult with other professional bodies, such as the NPSCC Helpline, in order to determine what to do in the face of uncertainty. \u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThese procedures are the same, regardless of whether a concern took place offline or online.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EAll decision making and actions taken and are recorded by the allocated Safeguarding Officer in The Scout Association safeguarding case management system, including records of contact with statutory agencies, parents and volunteers.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EAnyone who reports safeguarding concerns to The Scout Association will be treated with respect. People will receive a compassionate response, be listened to and be taken seriously. The Scouts will offer support to all those who have been affected.\u003C/p\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Ch3\u003E16. Managing allegations against volunteers and staff\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIn accordance with statutory guidance in \u003Ca rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 href=\u0022https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/65cb4349a7ded0000c79e4e1/Working_together_to_safeguard_children_2023_-_statutory_guidance.pdf\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022 title=\u0022Working Together to Safeguard Children 2023  (GOV.uk)\u0022\u003EWorking Together to Safeguard Children\u003C/a\u003E The Scout Association has clear procedures for managing allegations against adults working with children. There is a distinction between \u003Cstrong\u003Ean allegation, a concern about the quality of care or practice, or a complaint\u003C/strong\u003E.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EAn \u003Cstrong\u003Eallegation\u003C/strong\u003E may relate to a person who works with children who has:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EBehaved in a way that has harmed a child, or may have harmed a child.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EPossibly committed a criminal offence against or related to a child.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EBehaved towards a child or children in a way that indicates they may pose a risk of harm to children.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EBehaved or may have behaved in a way that indicates they may pose a risk of harm to children.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWhen an allegation is reported, The Scout Association\u2019s priority is to protect children and young people from any risk posed by individuals who are the subject of such allegations, whilst also recognising the need for such individuals to receive fair treatment and to avoid making premature assumptions about what they may or may not have done. The Safeguarding Officer will consult with statutory agencies and the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) (or Designated Officer or equivalent) and in accordance with POR, may suspend an individual or implement a safeguarding stay away. Suspension is intended to protect all involved and this helps to ensure that any investigation is as fair as possible by preventing situations where objectivity could be risked or further allegations could be made. Allegations against staff will be managed jointly between the UK HQ Safeguarding Team and the People Team (HR).\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe Scout Association recognises people who are subject to safeguarding concerns are vulnerable during any internal or statutory agency process. \u0026nbsp;The Scout Association will take all reasonable steps to support people through this process. \u0026nbsp;An independent colleague from the Scouts will be offered to act as a liaison for support if a member is suspended or a safeguarding stay away is implemented.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWhen allegations arise, there are 3 possible areas of investigation:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Col\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EPolice investigation\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EStatutory child protection investigation\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EInternal investigation conducted by The Scout Association Safeguarding Team\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ol\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIn cases where a statutory agency is conducting an investigation, the Safeguarding Team will liaise with agencies to monitor the progress of cases. \u0026nbsp;Once the statutory agency confirms the outcome of the investigation to The Scout Association Safeguarding Team, decision-making is made in consultation with the LADO and in line with \u003Ca href=\u0022/por/16-adult-roles/#16.8\u0022 title=\u002216. Adult Roles\u0022 data-anchor=\u0022#16.8\u0022\u003EThe Scout Association\u0027s Safeguarding and Vetting Decision Guidance\u003C/a\u003E. \u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWhere a statutory agency investigation concludes with no further action, The Scout Association Safeguarding Team will conduct an internal investigation.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EAllegations are not dealt with in isolation; all personal information held in The Scout Association\u2019s confidential safeguarding records will be reviewed to inform the risk assessment process.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EA concern about the quality of care or practice may result in restrictions being imposed on membership (suspension or safeguarding stay away) or may be managed as a misconduct issue with the oversight of the Safeguarding Team. \u0026nbsp;This will be dependent on the extent to which the concern poses a risk of harm to children, young people or adults at risk. \u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EPossible outcomes of allegations or concerns about the quality of care or practice include:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EFurther learning to be undertaken\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EMentoring/coaching to be provided\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EAdditional role reviews required with line management\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EModification of a member\u2019s role\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ERestrictions on a member\u2019s Scout activity\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ECancellation of membership for a period of time\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EExclusion from The Scout Association\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThis list is not exhaustive and outcomes will vary from case to case.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWhere a safeguarding investigation results in the cancellation of an individual\u2019s membership, consideration will be given to making a referral to the relevant disclosure authority (DBS, PVG, AccessNI).\u0026nbsp;Such a referral will be made if an individual subject to a safeguarding concern resigns their membership or departs without resignation prior to the conclusion of the safeguarding matter. \u0026nbsp;A referral will be made if a member gains a conviction or caution which is red or amber on the Safeguarding and Vetting Decision Making Guidance and The Scout Association has ended their membership due to this.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EComplaints\u003C/strong\u003E should be made in accordance with \u003Ca href=\u0022/about-us/policy/scouts-complaints-policy/\u0022 title=\u0022Scouts\u0027 Complaints Policy\u0022\u003EThe Scout Association\u2019s Complaints Policy\u003C/a\u003E.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe safeguarding procedures are outlined in the \u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/reporting-a-concern-to-safeguarding/safeguarding-process/\u0022 title=\u0022Safeguarding process\u0022\u003Eend-to-end process\u003C/a\u003E. \u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Ch3\u003E17. Recording, storing, information sharing\u003C/h3\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"accordion","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","showExpand":true,"items":[{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EAll recording of information should be factual. Where opinions or hearsay are given, these must be clearly differentiated from fact, and should identify whose opinion is being given, ideally using their exact words. Opinions expressed must be relevant to the situation, respectful and appropriate in tone.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWe should always be mindful that in many cases data subjects can request access to their data, and such requests can result in some or all of their records being disclosed to them.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"17.1 Recording"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003ENotes taken by volunteers in relation to safeguarding disclosures, concerns or allegations must be passed to the UK HQ Safeguarding Team.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EAll information about welfare concerns, safeguarding concerns and allegations are stored centrally, securely and separately from other records on The Scout Association case management system to ensure continuity of care, risk assessment and risk management across the organisation.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe Scout Association will process data in line with our \u003Ca href=\u0022/about-us/policy/data-protection-policy/\u0022 title=\u0022Data Protection Policy\u0022\u003EData Protection Policy\u003C/a\u003E. \u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ERecords are kept in line with our \u003Ca href=\u0022/about-us/policy/data-retention-policy/\u0022 title=\u0022Data Retention Policy\u0022\u003EData Retention Policy\u003C/a\u003E and technical and organisational measures are in place to ensure the integrity of the personal information stored.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDue to the fact that local Scout Groups, Districts, Counties/Areas/Regions (Scotland) and Countries are their own distinct data controllers, separate to The Scout Association and separate legal entities, they are responsible for their data compliance. The Scout Association provides guidance, signposting and resources to local data controllers on the UK GDPR via our \u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/running-things-locally/gdpr-toolkit/\u0022 title=\u0022GDPR Toolkit\u0022\u003EGDPR toolkit\u003C/a\u003E.\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EData retained locally should be proportionate and in line with the principles of data protection (Lawfulness, Fairness and Transparency, Purpose Limitation, Data Minimisation, Accuracy, Storage Limitation, Integrity and Confidentiality).\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EA local Data Lead can lead on decision making, and a local Data Protection Policy and Retention Schedule should be followed. \u0026nbsp;Groups, Districts, Counties/Areas/Regions (Scotland) and Countries should be mindful that the more data held, the greater the risk associated with data breaches are and it can mean increased burden when data rights request are submitted.\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E","label":"17.2 Storing"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Scout Association may need to share personal information for a number of reasons:\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EThere is a concern that a child may be at risk of significant harm.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EThere is information alleging that a crime may have been committed or may be committed.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EA referral is being made to request additional support for a child and/or their family.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EA statutory agency has asked for information about an individual.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EThere are significant concerns about an adult volunteer or staff member\u2019s suitability to work with children and young people or we have removed them from the organisation in line with \u003Ca rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 href=\u0022https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/65cb4349a7ded0000c79e4e1/Working_together_to_safeguard_children_2023_-_statutory_guidance.pdf\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022 title=\u0022Working Together to Safeguard Children 2023 (GOV.uk)\u0022\u003EWorking Together to Safeguard Children\u003C/a\u003E statutory guidance or the relevant national legislation or POR.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EInformation is shared in line with our Data Protection Policy and Government guidance on \u003Ca rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 href=\u0022https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/safeguarding-practitioners-information-sharing-advice\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022 title=\u0022Safeguarding practitioners information sharing advice (GOV.uk)\u0022\u003EInformation Sharing for Safeguarding Practitioners July 2018\u003C/a\u003E, ensuring that information sharing is necessary, proportionate, relevant, adequate, timely and secure. \u0026nbsp;Decision making on the reason for the sharing of information is recorded on our case management system.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe Scout Association will, in most cases, seek parental consent to share information about concerns about their child. \u0026nbsp;However if consent isn\u2019t given, The Scout Association will still share information with relevant professionals under certain circumstances, for example, where we are protecting a child from significant harm and promoting the welfare of a child. In cases where information is shared without parental consent, a written record is kept explaining why and this is shared with the agency/agencies The Scout Association is sharing the information with.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EGroups, Districts, Counties/Areas/Regions (Scotland) and Countries are advised to record any decision about information sharing.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EOn occasion, the UK HQ Safeguarding Team might advise a relevant partner of a serious safeguarding incident (as defined by the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 href=\u0022https://www.gov.uk/guidance/how-to-report-a-serious-incident-in-your-charity\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022 title=\u0022How to report a serious incident in your charity (GOV.uk)\u0022\u003ECharity Commission\u003C/a\u003E) which may affect them too.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EAny breaches of information security must be reported to the Data Protection Officer at \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:enquiries.dpo@scouts.org.uk\u0022\u003Eenquiries.dpo@scouts.org.uk\u003C/a\u003E.\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E","label":"17.3 Information sharing"}]},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch3\u003E18. Data protection\u00A0\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe Scout Association will process data in compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the exemptions provided for safeguarding purposes by the Data Protection Act 2018. In all cases, information sharing will be undertaken with reference to the statutory guidance, \u003Ca rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 href=\u0022https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/65cb4349a7ded0000c79e4e1/Working_together_to_safeguard_children_2023_-_statutory_guidance.pdf\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022 title=\u0022Working Together to Safeguard Children 2023 (GOV.uk)\u0022\u003EWorking Together to Safeguarding Children 2023\u003C/a\u003E, in line with the \u003Ca href=\u0022/por/1-our-fundamentals/\u0022 title=\u00221. Our Fundamentals\u0022\u003EPolicy, Organisation and Rules\u003C/a\u003E (POR) of the Scout Association.\u003C/p\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Ch3\u003E19. Reviewing this policy\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThis policy will be regularly reviewed and updated accordingly.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThis policy is due for review:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EEvery 12 months, or\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003Efollowing any legislative changes, or;\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003Efollowing any learning by The Scout Association, or;\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003Eas required by the Charity Commission, or;\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003Eany change in jurisdictional guidance, whichever comes first.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe policy will be reviewed by the Head of Safeguarding and the Safeguarding Committee and revisions recommended to the Board of Trustees for approval.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EEvery two years this policy will be reviewed with the NSPCC.\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Ch3\u003E20. Further Scout Association resources\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EFor more information about safeguarding at The Scout Association please see:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022/about-us/policy/scouts-complaints-policy/\u0022 title=\u0022Scouts\u0027 Complaints Policy\u0022\u003EComplaints Policy\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022/about-us/policy/data-protection-policy/\u0022 title=\u0022Data Protection Policy\u0022\u003EData Protection Policy\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022/about-us/policy/data-retention-policy/\u0022 title=\u0022Data Retention Policy\u0022\u003EData Retention Policy\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022/about-us/policy/equality-diversity-and-inclusion-policy/\u0022 title=\u0022Equality, diversity and inclusion policy\u0022\u003EEquality, diversity and inclusion Policy\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safe-scouting-cards/scouting-and-alcohol/\u0022 title=\u0022Scouting and alcohol\u0022\u003EGreen Card\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/intimate-personal-care-policy-procedures/\u0022 title=\u0022Intimate \u0026amp; Personal Care Policy \u0026amp; Procedures\u0022\u003EIntimate and Personal Care Policies and Procedures\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safe-scouting-cards/safeguarding-code-of-conduct-for-young-leaders-orange-card/\u0022 title=\u0022Young People First - Orange Card\u0022\u003EOrange Card (Safeguarding Code of Conduct for Young Leaders)\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022/por/1-our-fundamentals/\u0022 title=\u00221. Our Fundamentals\u0022\u003EPolicy Organisation and Rules (POR)\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safe-scouting-cards/safe-scouting-what-to-do-in-an-emergency/\u0022 title=\u0022Safe Scouting and Emergency Procedures\u0022\u003EPurple Card (Safety)\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022/about-us/policy/social-media-policy/\u0022 title=\u0022Social media terms of use\u0022\u003ETerms of use of Social Media\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022/about-us/policy/anti-bullying-and-harassment-policy/\u0022 title=\u0022Volunteer Anti-Bullying and Harassment Policy \u0026amp; Procedures\u0022\u003EVolunteer Anti-Bullying and Harassment Policy \u0026amp; Procedures\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022/about-us/policy/whistleblowing/whistleblowing-policy-and-procedures/\u0022 title=\u0022Whistleblowing Policy and Procedures\u0022\u003EWhistleblowing Policy and Procedures\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safe-scouting-cards/safeguarding-code-of-conduct-for-adults-yellow-card/\u0022 title=\u0022Young People First - Yellow Card\u0022\u003EYellow Card (Safeguarding Code of Conduct for Adults)\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Ch3\u003E21. Organisations\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EThe Police\u00A0\u003Cbr\u003EContact your local police force by calling 112 or 999 in an emergency or 101 for non-urgent concerns.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 href=\u0022https://www.nspcc.org.uk/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022 title=\u0022NSPCC website\u0022\u003ENSPCC\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EContact NSPCC on 0808 800 5000 or email \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:help@NSPCC.org.uk\u0022\u003Ehelp@NSPCC.org.uk\u003C/a\u003E.\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.nspcc.org.uk/\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 href=\u0022https://www.childline.org.uk/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022 title=\u0022ChildLine website\u0022\u003EChildLine\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EContact ChildLine on 0800 1111.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 href=\u0022https://thesurvivorstrust.org/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022 title=\u0022The Survivors Trust website\u0022\u003EThe Survivors Trust\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EContact the Survivors Trust on 08088 010818 or email \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:helpline@thesurvivorstrust.org\u0022\u003Ehelpline@thesurvivorstrust.org\u003C/a\u003E.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 href=\u0022https://www.survivorsuk.org/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022 title=\u0022Survivors UK website\u0022\u003ESurvivors UK\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EContact Survivors UK on 02035983898 or email \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:help@survivorsuk.org\u0022\u003Ehelp@survivorsuk.org\u003C/a\u003E.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 href=\u0022https://napac.org.uk/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022 title=\u0022The National Association For People Abused in Childhood website\u0022\u003ENational Association for People Abused in Childhood (NAPAC)\u00A0\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EContact NAPAC on 0808 801 0331 or email \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:support@napac.org.uk\u0022\u003Esupport@napac.org.uk\u003C/a\u003E.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ERape Crisis\u003Cbr\u003EContact Rape Crisis on 08085002222 (24/7) or visit the \u003Ca rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 href=\u0022https://rapecrisis.org.uk/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022 title=\u0022Rape Crisis website\u0022\u003ERape Crisis website\u003C/a\u003E to start a free online chat.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 href=\u0022https://www.samaritans.org/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022 title=\u0022Samaritans website\u0022\u003ESamaritans\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003ECall free 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on 116 123 or email \u003Ca rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 href=\u0022mailto:jo@samaritans.org\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022 title=\u0022Email Samaritans\u0022\u003Ejo@samaritans.org\u003C/a\u003E.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Ch3\u003E22. Contact us\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ETelephone the UK HQ Safeguarding Team: \u002B44(0)208 433 7164.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EEmail the UK HQ Safeguarding Team: \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:safeguarding@scouts.org.uk\u0022\u003Esafeguarding@scouts.org.uk\u003C/a\u003E.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EEmergency out-of-hours: \u002B44(0)345 300 1818.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EYou can access the \u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/reporting-a-concern-to-safeguarding/\u0022 title=\u0022Reporting a concern to safeguarding\u0022\u003EOnline Safeguarding Reporting Form\u003C/a\u003E and the \u003Ca rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 href=\u0022https://prod-umbraco-core.azurewebsites.net/media/ggvnrldp/scout-safeguarding-reporting-form-january-2025.docx\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022 title=\u0022Downloadable reporting form\u0022\u003Edownloadable reporting form\u003C/a\u003E.\u00A0\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Ch3\u003EAppendix A: Definitions\u003C/h3\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"accordion","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","showExpand":true,"items":[{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003ELegally means any person over the age of 18.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Adult"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EAn adult, who is, or may be, in need of community care services such as adult social services, because of mental health, disability, age or illness, and/or who is unable to care for themselves or unable to protect themselves from significant harm or exploitation. This is further defined by each Nation.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIn England, section 42 of the Care Act 2014 provides the safeguarding duties in the Act apply to an adult who:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Col style=\u0022list-style-type: lower-alpha;\u0022\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003Ehas needs for care and support (whether or not the local authority is meeting any of those needs),\u0026nbsp;\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003Eis experiencing, or at risk of, abuse or neglect, and\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003Eas a result of those needs is unable to protect himself or herself against the abuse or neglect or the risk of it.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ol\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIn Scotland, Section 3 of the Adult Support and Protection (Scotland) Act 2007 defines adults at risk as adults who:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Col style=\u0022list-style-type: lower-alpha;\u0022\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003Eare unable to safeguard their own wellbeing, property, rights or other interests,\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003Eare at risk of harm, and\u0026nbsp;\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003Ebecause they\u2019re affected by disability, mental disorder, illness or physical or mental infirmity, are more vulnerable to being harmed than adults who are not so affected.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ol\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIn Wales, Section 126 of the Social Services and Well-being (Wales) Act 2014 defines an adult at risk as an adult who:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Col style=\u0022list-style-type: lower-alpha;\u0022\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003Eis experiencing or is at risk of abuse or neglect,\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003Ehas needs for care and support (whether or not the authority is meeting any of those needs), and\u0026nbsp;\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003Eas a result of those needs is unable to protect himself or herself against the abuse or neglect or the risk of it.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ol\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIn Northern Ireland, an adult at risk (known as an adult in need of protection) is defined as a person aged 18 or over whose exposure to harm through abuse, exploitation or neglect may be increased by their: personal circumstances and/or life circumstances, and who is unable to protect their own well-being, property, assets, rights or other interests; and, where the action or inaction of another person or persons is causing, or is likely to cause him/her to be harmed. This is further defined in Section 3 of the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups (NI) Order 2007.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Adult at risk"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EAdult protection is part of safeguarding and refers to the activity undertaken to protect adults suffering from, or at risk of significant harm (No Secrets \u2013 Statutory guidance (2000), and Social Care Institute for Excellence (2011): Safeguarding Adults at Risk of Harm).\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Adult protection"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003ERefers to an assertion or suspicion made by an individual that another person may have committed an act that is usually considered negative or harmful.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Allegation"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Scout Association recognises the legal definition of \u2018child\u2019 can differ across jurisdictions. However, for The Scout Association a \u2018child\u2019 is someone under 18 years old.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWorking Together to Safeguard Children 2023(England) defines a child as anyone who has not yet reached their 18th birthday. The fact that a child has reached 16 years of age, is living independently or is in further education, is a member of the armed forces, is in hospital or in custody in the secure estate, does not change their status or entitlements to services or protection.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ESection 3 of the Social Services and well-being (Wales) Act 2014 states that a child is a person aged under 18.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe Children (Northern Ireland) Order 1995 defines a child as \u2018a person under the age of 18\u2019.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe National Guidance for Child Protection in Scotland 2021 defines a child as \u2018under the age of 18 years\u2019. However, there may be circumstances where people aged 16 and 17 years are classed as adults and advice should be taken on a case by case basis on which laws apply in Scotland.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EOur safeguarding practice places the views of children and young people at the centre of our policy planning and implementation processes. This approach makes sure that their welfare remains paramount in all we do.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Child"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EPart of safeguarding and promoting welfare. This refers to the activity that is undertaken to protect specific children who are suffering, or are likely to suffer, significant harm. (\u003Ca rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 href=\u0022https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/65cb4349a7ded0000c79e4e1/Working_together_to_safeguard_children_2023_-_statutory_guidance.pdf\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022 title=\u0022Working Together to Safeguard Children 2023 (GOV.uk)\u0022\u003EWorking Together to Safeguard Children 2023\u003C/a\u003E)\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Child protection"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EIncludes physical, intellectual, emotional, social or behavioural development.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Development"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EInformation shared by an individual, either written or verbal, relating to a safeguarding concern that is non-recent, current or may happen in the future.\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Disclosure"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EA single plan, which covers the education, health and social care needs of a child or young person with special educational needs and/or a disability (SEND).\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Education, Health and Care Plan"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EExtremism goes beyond terrorism and includes people who target the vulnerable \u2013 including the young \u2013 by seeking to sow division between communities on the basis of race, faith or denomination; justify discrimination towards women and girls; persuade others that minorities are inferior; or argue against the primacy of democracy and the rule of law in our society. Extremism is defined in the Counter Extremism Strategy 2015 as the vocal or active opposition to our fundamental values, including the rule of law, individual liberty and the mutual respect and tolerance of different faiths and beliefs. We also regard calls for the death of members of our armed forces as extremist (\u003Ca rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 href=\u0022https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/65cb4349a7ded0000c79e4e1/Working_together_to_safeguard_children_2023_-_statutory_guidance.pdf\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022 title=\u0022Working Together to Safeguard Children 2023 (GOV.uk)\u0022\u003EWorking Together to Safeguard Children 2023\u003C/a\u003E).\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Extremism"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EIs the planned and deliberate act of manoeuvring an individual into a position of isolation to make sure they become a key influencer or \u2018trusted person\u2019.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Grooming"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003ESee parent definition.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Guardian"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EIncludes physical and mental health.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Health"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EIncludes sexual abuse and other forms of ill-treatment which may not be physical.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Maltreatment"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EAn individual who, in law, has custody, guardianship or access rights in regards to a child and who may have corollary obligations to financially support a minor, typically by way of child support. Also includes individuals who may have a child born through a surrogacy; those who adopt a child, those who have care or control of a child through a foster care arrangement; and those who have the care or custody of a child through a Court order.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EUnder section 576 of the Education Act 1996 (EA 1996), a \u2018parent\u2019 in relation to a child or young person is defined as: The biological parents of a child, whether they are married or not. Anyone who, although not a biological parent, has parental responsibility for a child.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Parent"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EA mother automatically has parental responsibility for her child\u003Cbr\u003Efrom birth. A father usually has parental responsibility if he\u2019s either:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EMarried to the child\u2019s mother; or\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003Elisted on the birth certificate (after a certain date, depending on which part of the UK the child was born in).\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EYou can apply for parental responsibility if you don\u2019t automatically have it.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EFor births in England and Wales, if the parents of a child are married when the child is born, or if they\u2019ve jointly adopted a child, both have parental responsibility. They both keep parental responsibility if they later divorce.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EFor births registered in Scotland, a father has parental responsibility if he\u2019s married to the mother when the child is conceived, or marries her at any point afterwards. An unmarried father has parental responsibility if he\u2019s named on the child\u2019s birth certificate (from 4 May 2006).\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EFor births registered in Northern Ireland, a father has parental responsibility if he\u2019s married to the mother at the time of the child\u2019s birth. If a father marries the mother after the child\u2019s birth, he has parental responsibility if he lives in Northern Ireland at the time of the marriage. An unmarried father has parental responsibility if he\u2019s named, or becomes named, on the child\u2019s birth certificate (from 15 April 2002).\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EFor births registered outside the UK, if a child is born overseas and comes to live in the UK, parental responsibility depends on the UK country they\u2019re now living in.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EFor unmarried parents, an unmarried father can get parental responsibility for his child in one of three ways:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EJointly registering the birth of the child with the mother (from 1 December 2003).\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EGetting a parental responsibility agreement with the mother.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EGetting a parental responsibility order from a court.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EFor civil partners, same-sex partners will both have parental responsibility if they were civil partners at the time of the treatment, eg donor insemination or fertility treatment.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EFor non-civil partners, for same-sex partners who aren\u2019t civil partners, the second parent can get parental responsibility by either:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EApplying for parental responsibility if a parental agreement was made.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EBecoming a civil partner of the other parent and making a parental responsibility agreement or jointly registering the birth.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E","label":"Parental responsibility"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EA form of abuse which may involve hitting, shaking, throwing, poisoning, burning or scalding, drowning, suffocating or otherwise causing physical harm to a child, young person or adult at risk. Physical harm may also be caused when a parent or carer fabricates the symptoms of, or deliberately induces, illness in a child.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Physical Abuse"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003ERefers to the process by which a person comes to support terrorism and/or extremist ideologies associated with terrorist groups.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Radicalisation"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EFor the purposes of this policy, we are using the terms \u2018safeguarding\u2019 and \u2018to safeguard\u2019 to describe the prevention and precautionary approach to planning and procedures needed to protect children and young people from any potential harm, impairment of a child\u2019s health or development, providing safe and effective care and taking action to enable all children and young people have the best outcomes.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Safeguarding"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EA safeguarding concern refers to any suspicions of non-recent, current or future potential harm or abuse towards a child, young person or adult at risk. A safeguarding concern can refer to the actions of a person towards others whether deliberate or not. In The Scout Association a breach of the \u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safe-scouting-cards/safeguarding-code-of-conduct-for-adults-yellow-card/\u0022 title=\u0022Young People First - Yellow Card\u0022\u003EYellow Card\u003C/a\u003E is also considered a safeguarding concern.\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Safeguarding concern"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003ESafety is about being protected from, and not causing, danger, risk, injury, loss or harm. Safety can be a feeling, a physical object or place, and an action, and sometimes refers to the laws, rules, and principles that are intended to keep people safe. Safety isn\u2019t just about what happens inside the meeting place, it\u2019s also about what happens outside it \u2013 including days out \u2013 and may be about something that\u2019s happening at home.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Safety"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EHarm is the \u2018ill treatment or the impairment of the health or development of the child\u2019. It\u2019s determined significant by \u2018comparing a child\u2019s health and development with what might be reasonably expected of a similar child\u2019.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Significant harm"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EAny employee of The Scout Association, contractor, consultant, agency worker or any person in paid employment for the organisation.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Staff"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EA young carer is a person under 18 who provides or intends to provide care for another person (of any age, except generally where that care is provided for payment, pursuant to a contract or as voluntary work).\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Young carer"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EAn adult someone who gives their time freely for the benefit of The Scout Association and within the definitions of this policy also includes any leader, manager, supporter, Scout Network Member, associate member, executive committee member or trustee.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Volunteer"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EWellbeing refers to a person\u2019s sense of contentment and satisfaction with their conditions in life and their current circumstances. It\u2019s closely linked to emotional balance and mental health but is also affected by an individual\u2019s attitude, values and perspective.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Wellbeing"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EIn The Scout Association, a young person is a member or prospective member aged between their 4th and 18th birthdays.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ESee \u003Ca href=\u0022/por/\u0022 title=\u0022POR Rule Book\u0022\u003EPOR\u003C/a\u003E for further definitions.\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Young person"}]},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch3\u003EAppendix B: Legislation and guidance across all jurisdictions\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe Scout Association\u2019s safeguarding procedures are set out in the end-to-end process. The Scout Association policy documents and government legislation across the UK support this policy. All these documents are underpinned by the Human Rights Act 1998 and the UN Convention on the rights of the child, 1992.\u003C/p\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"accordion","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","showExpand":false,"items":[{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ECare Act 2014: Sets out a clear legal framework for how local authorities and other parts of the system should protect adults at risk of abuse or neglect.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EChildren Act 2004: All four nations have their own interpretation of the Act but share the same principle: the intention to ensure that the welfare and developmental needs of children and young people are met, including their need to be protected from harm.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EThe Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015: Gives local authorities a statutory duty to have \u2018due regard to the need to prevent people from being drawn into terrorism\u2019 (the \u2018Prevent\u2019 duty).\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EData Protection Act 2018 and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) 2018: Explicitly states that children\u2019s personal data merits specific protection. It also introduces new requirements for the online processing of a child\u2019s personal data. Children have the same rights as adults over their personal data.\u00A0\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EDisclosure (Scotland) Act 2020: Provides PVG membership is a legal requirement for all regulated roles with children and protected adults.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EEquality Act 2010: Consolidates previous anti-discrimination law in the UK and requires equal treatment for everyone.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EHealth, Safety and Welfare Act 1974 (UK wide): There is no specific legislation for youth organisations, however, there is a general duty for employers to protect and ensure a safe space for employees and volunteers.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EHuman Rights Act 1998 and the United Nations Convention the Rights of the Child (signed up to in 1991 by UK government): some elements have been enshrined within UK law ie Article 1, definition of a child; Article 2, all children should be treated the same; Article 3, the best interests of the child must be a primary consideration in decision making; and Article 12, all children have the right to express their views freely, in all matters that affect them.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ESafeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006: All people working with children and young people should be appropriately checked if they\u2019re undertaking a regulated activity on a regular basis.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EWorking Together to Safeguarding Children 2023: Sets out the framework that all statutory and non-statutory agencies should follow to make sure everyone\u2019s working together to safeguard children and young people.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EUN Convention on the Rights of the Child 1992.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Ch4\u003ENation specific legislation and guidance\u003C/h4\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEngland:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ECare Act 2014\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ECare and Support statutory guidance 2016\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EChildren\u2019s Act 1989\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EChildren\u2019s Act 2004\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EChildren and Families Act 2014\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EChildren and Social Work Act 2017\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EEducation Act 2002\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EEducation Act 2011\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EEqualities Act 2010\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EKeeping Children Safe in Education 2023\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EMental Capacity Act 2005\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ESafeguarding disabled children practice guidance 2009\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ESafeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ESEND code of practice 2014\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EWorking Together to Safeguard Children 2023\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EIsle of Man:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ESafeguarding Act 2018\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ENorthern Ireland:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EThe Children (Northern Ireland) Order 1995\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ECooperating to safeguard children and young people in Northern Ireland 2017\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EMental Capacity Act (NI), 2016 Adult Safeguarding: Prevention and protection in partnership 2015\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ESafeguarding Vulnerable Groups (NI) Order 2007\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ESafeguarding Board Act (Northern Ireland) 2011\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EScotland:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EAdult Support and Protection (Scotland) Act 2007\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EAdult Support and Protection Code of Practice 2014\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EAdults with Incapacity (Scotland) Act 2000\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EChildren (Scotland) Act 1995\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EChildren and Young People (Scotland) Act 2014\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EHealth (Tobacco, Nicotine etc. and Care) (Scotland) Act 2016\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EMental Health (Care and Treatment) (Scotland) Act 2003\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ENational Guidance for Child Protection in Scotland 2021\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EProtecting Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act 2007\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EScottish Social Services Council (SSSC) Standards (2014)\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EThe Age of Legal Capacity (Scotland) Act 1991 (c.50)\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWales:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EChildren\u2019s Act 1989\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EChildren\u2019s Act 2004\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EChildren and Social Work Act 2017\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ESocial Services and Wellbeing Act 2014\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ESocial Services and Well-being (Wales) Act -Working together to safeguard people, volume 1, 2016\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EAll Wales Child Protection procedures 2008\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ESafeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EMental Capacity Act 2005\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Ch4\u003EAdult at risk specific legislation and guidance\u003C/h4\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThis policy complies with the following pieces of legislation specifically (non-exhaustive list). (See also Safeguarding children and young people policy):\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EAdult Safeguarding: Prevention and Protection in Partnership July 2015: Places significant emphasis on prevention and early intervention to improve safeguarding arrangements for adults who are at risk from harm and abuse.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EThe Adult Support and Protection (Scotland) Act 2007: Made adult protection a statutory responsibility and placed a responsibility on partner agencies to co-operate with statutory investigations and to report concerns about abuse or harm to the relevant local authority (even if allegations are anonymous).\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EChildren and Families Act 2014 \u2013 a child will become a young person once they reach the end of compulsory school age (ie the last Friday of June in the year the child turns 16). At that point, parental rights under the law in relation to the young person\u0027s education will automatically pass to the young person themselves.\u003Cbr\u003EHowever, if the young person is recognised as being covered by the SEN and Disability Code of Practice 2015 (\u2018the Code\u2019), their family and parents should continue to be involved in discussions about their future. The young person may also ask them to help in other ways such as attending meetings, filling in forms or receiving correspondence on their behalf. This is particularly important for 16 and 17 year olds, for whom parents will retain parental responsibility until they reach the age of 18 and in certain cases, up to 25 years.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EInter-Agency Safeguarding Adults Adult Protection Policy 2016\u20132018 (Isle of Man): Sets the expectation of us as providers of social care services to enact our core responsibility to provide safe, effective and high quality care. Adult protection concerns require a variety of responses including internal and external investigations, disciplinary processes, clinical governance processes and the involvement of the police, regulatory authorities and staff training.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EMental Capacity Act (2005): Applies to anyone over the age of 16. Decisions about a young person\u2019s capacity and best interests can be made in the same way as for any adult.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EThe Social Services and Well-Being (Wales) Act 2014: Provides the legal framework for improving the wellbeing of people who need care and support, and carers who need support, and for transforming social services in Wales. This act introduces a mandatory duty to report if you have a concern about \u2018an adult at risk\u2019 (as defined in this legislation \u2013 see glossary) who may be or has been abused or harmed.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E","label":"This policy complies with the following legislation (non-exhaustive list): "}]},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch3\u003EAppendix C: Roles and responsibilities for safeguarding\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EEveryone within The Scout Association must fully understand and implement the safeguarding policies and procedures relevant to their role. To enable this to happen, we have a comprehensive learning programme and a safeguarding structure that makes sure we\u2019re pro-actively safeguarding right across the organisation.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EOur structure includes:\u003C/p\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"accordion","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","showExpand":false,"items":[{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EThe Scout Association\u2019s UK HQ Safeguarding Team interprets legislation and makes sure we\u2019re legally compliant and demonstrating good safeguarding practice. It also has a remit to respond to concerns and advise volunteer line managers of the actions required in the event of a suspicion or allegation of abuse against one of their leaders\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EThe UK HQ Safeguarding Team has certain legal and regulatory obligations that all members of The Scout Association must assist in meeting, such as the \u2018duty to refer\u2019 any adult if there are any concerns that they\u2019re not suitable to work with young people, and all child protection concerns.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EThe Head of Safeguarding at Headquarters is The Scout Association\u2019s Designated Safeguarding Person (DSP) and ultimate source of advice on all safeguarding matters (children, young people and adults at risk) and works in partnership with relevant sub-committees and senior leadership team. In their absence, the Deputy Head of Safeguarding will deputise. N.B there is not a DSP at local level as all adults have a responsibility to report all safeguarding concerns directly to the UK HQ Safeguarding Team.\u0026nbsp;\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E","label":"UK HQ Safeguarding Team"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EMust be satisfied that everyone they appoint are: appropriate people to carry out the responsibilities of the role, and if required, maintain a current valid criminal record check and the appropriate level for their role (DBS, Access NI, PVG). They must make sure that all applicants demonstrate an understanding of and a commitment to the principles and procedures supporting The Scout Association\u2019s Safeguarding policy.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EIn cases where there\u2019s an allegation or suspicion of abuse, the District or County Lead Volunteer, as appropriate, in consultation with the UK HQ Safeguarding Team, must immediately take steps to make sure that no Scout situation arises which could cause further harm. To this end, suspension of membership may be necessary (see \u003Ca href=\u0022/por/\u0022 title=\u0022POR Rule Book\u0022\u003EPOR\u003C/a\u003E) which will affect all volunteering roles of that individual.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E","label":"Lead Volunteers"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EUndertake mandatory learning as described in POR.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EGive information and advice\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EOffer support and advice across the County (including for Groups and Districts) about promoting a culture of safeguarding.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ESupport anyone organising events for Scouts to make sure they\u2019re run safely and in line with\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022/about-us/policy/\u0022 title=\u0022Policy\u0022\u003EScouts policies\u003C/a\u003E.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ESupport Group / District / County Lead Volunteers to use website guidance on safeguarding and encourage safeguarding learning.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ETell members where to go for more support on the Scouts website.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EPromote a culture of safeguarding\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EEncourage openness and transparency. If members have any concerns or believe someone hasn\u2019t followed the Yellow Card Code of Conduct for Volunteers, this should be questioned and/or reported.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ECreate a space where young people feel safe and able to voice their concerns.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EMake sure the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safe-scouting-cards/safeguarding-code-of-conduct-for-adults-yellow-card/\u0022 title=\u0022Safeguarding Code of Conduct for Adults - Yellow Card\u0022\u003EYellow Card (Safeguarding Code of Conduct for Adults)\u003C/a\u003E is shared with everyone, and its poster is displayed.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ESuggest activities for young people that are approved and have gone through UKHQ.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ESupport learning\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EKeep up to date with national safeguarding changes in Scouts using information available (including management information and data, local and national learnings)\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EMake sure volunteers within the County understand and follow our safeguarding policies, stay up to date on advice, guidance and rules, and promote a culture of Safe Scouting across the local area.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EWork with other volunteers\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EWork with Group / District / County Lead Volunteers and the District / County Volunteering Development Teams to decide what support and information is needed for volunteers to follow our safeguarding policies.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EPlease note, this role doesn\u2019t get involved in safeguarding cases. These are looked at by the UK HQ Safeguarding Team with the support of the Volunteer Safeguarding Lead or District / County Lead Volunteer (if there isn\u2019t a Volunteer Safeguarding Lead / Volunteer Safeguarding Lead).\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E","label":"Safeguarding Advisers"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EThese tasks can be done by the Lead Volunteer as default. Additionally, they can be shared as an accreditation with any full member (except anyone whose only role is Trustee, and any roles that do not have a criminal record check) who\u2019s:\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ECommitted to following the Safeguarding Policy and Procedures and acting as the Situation Manager.\u0026nbsp;\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ESomeone with experience and knowledge of safeguarding within Scouts. Qualifications aren\u2019t needed, but they should have a commitment to safeguarding.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EFollow the Safeguarding Policy and Procedures, including:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EBe the main point of contact (known as Situation Manager) for the UK HQ Safeguarding Team.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EAssist with the handling of any safeguarding concerns, following the advice of the Safeguarding Team.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EWhen working with the Safeguarding Team, receive and read the Safeguarding Guidance for District Lead Volunteers and Volunteer Safeguarding Leads.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/reporting-a-concern-to-safeguarding/\u0022 title=\u0022Reporting a concern to safeguarding\u0022\u003EReport all safeguarding concerns\u003C/a\u003E brought to their attention to the UK HQ Safeguarding Team. This applies to all concerns, no matter how small they might seem, when they happened or whether they happened inside or outside of Scouts. \u0026nbsp;\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EAgree an action plan with the Safeguarding Team, and undertake assigned tasks. This could include assisting with HQ\u2019s suspension process such as providing local support, sharing information, making enquiries, and speaking to parents / carers.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ERespond to safeguarding concerns during the appointments process, including:\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EBefore, during or after welcome conversations\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ECriminal record checks\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EAdverse criminal record checks\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EInternal checks\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EUnsatisfactory references\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWork with other volunteers:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EPromote a culture of safeguarding in the local area.\u0026nbsp;\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EMake sure volunteers are following the \u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safe-scouting-cards/safeguarding-code-of-conduct-for-adults-yellow-card/\u0022 title=\u0022Safeguarding Code of Conduct for Adults - Yellow Card\u0022\u003EYellow Card (Safeguarding Code of Conduct for Adults)\u003C/a\u003E and reporting any concerns they may have.\u0026nbsp;\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EWork with the Safeguarding Adviser and Volunteering Development Team Leader to share learnings and trends to identify what support and information is needed for volunteers.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E","label":"Volunteer Safeguarding Leads"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003ETheir role is to provide a safe space for all activities and events to run. Their role is also to be alert, question behaviours, seek advice, and support and report safeguarding concerns.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Local Team Leaders and Team Members"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003ESafeguarding\u2019s the responsibility of all volunteers. They must complete learning to enable them to do this and follow the \u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safe-scouting-cards/young-people-first-yellow-card/\u0022 title=\u0022Young People First - Yellow Card\u0022\u003ECode of Conduct \u2013 Young People First (Yellow Card)\u003C/a\u003E.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"All volunteers"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Scout Association Trustees retain overall responsibility to make sure this safeguarding policy\u2019s implemented and working effectively. Their role is to make sure of effective quality assurance, compliance and reporting of safeguarding within the organisation. The trustee\u2019s full responsibilities are listed below.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch4\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe role of Scout Trustees\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/h4\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe Charity Commission expects all trustees to make sure their charity:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EHas appropriate policies and procedures in place, which are followed by all trustees, volunteers and beneficiaries.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EChecks that people are suitable to act in their roles.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EKnows how to spot and handle concerns in a full and open manner.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EHas a clear system of referring or reporting to relevant organisations as soon as concerns are suspected or identified.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ESets out risks and how they will be managed in a risk register which is regularly reviewed.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EFollows statutory guidance, good practice guidance and legislation relevant to their charity: this guidance links to the main sources of information.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EIs quick to respond to concerns and carry out appropriate investigations.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EDoes not ignore harm or downplay failures.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EHas a balanced trustee Board and does not let one trustee dominate its work \u2013 trustees should work together.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EMakes sure protecting people from harm is central to its culture.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EHas enough resources, including trained staff/volunteers/trustees for safeguarding and protecting people.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EConducts periodic reviews of safeguarding policies, procedures and practice.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E","label":"Trustees"}]},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch3\u003EAppendix D: Online Safeguarding Reporting Form and the downloadable reporting form\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThese can be found on \u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/reporting-a-concern-to-safeguarding/\u0022 title=\u0022Reporting a concern to safeguarding\u0022\u003EReporting a concern to safeguarding\u003C/a\u003E.\u003C/p\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Ch3\u003EAppendix E: Pre-existing relationship conversation framework\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThis framework\u2019s designed to support initial conversations with all parties involved where a discussion around a pre-existing relationship.\u003C/p\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"accordion","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","showExpand":true,"items":[{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EA conversation is required with the young person and their parent/carer, as well as a separate conversation with the individual who wishes to become an adult volunteer or Network member. Plan an appropriate place for the conversation take place. This should be a neutral and comfortable space, where you\u2019ll be able to talk without being interrupted. The conversation should involve the District Lead Volunteer (or their nominated representative) and a record of all conversations should be logged and recorded in line with GDPR. Before the meeting, you may wish to refer to The Scout Association\u2019s Safeguarding policy. This will ensure that you feel prepared and confident, and understand the requirements of the pre-existing relationship exemption.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EAll reasonable steps must be taken to ensure that this assessment process remains inclusive for any individual who has a disability or additional needs.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Planning the conversation"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EMake sure that the adult/Network member understands that this is a formal conversation and the outcomes will be recorded.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EBe supportive and commend them for informing you of/discussing the relationship.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EBe positive but realistic. Explain that there are only certain criteria allowed for a pre-existing relationship to be accepted and agreed. Highlight the importance of adherence to the Yellow Card and how this ensures that TSA keeps young people safe.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ETalk to the adult/Network member who has the pre-existing relationship with the under 18 year old. Key points to cover are:\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EHow old is the under 18?\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EWhen did the relationship commence? If prior to the under 18 year old reaching 16, explore this aspect.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EAre the under 18\u2019s parent/carer aware of the relationship?\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EWhat\u2019s the age gap?\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EWhere did they meet?\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EDo other members of TSA (young people and adult members) know about the relationship?\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EDoes the under 18 know of this process? If so, what are their views?\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EDo they have any concerns or reservations?\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EDo they have any questions?\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ERemember that each person will be different and some may find discussing personal issues difficult or embarrassing. Reassure them as to why this conversation must occur and why.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EExplain to the adult/Network member that you\u2019ll be speaking to the under 18 year old and their parent/carer, how you plan to store and share any information you record, and what the next steps will be.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EExplain to the adult/Network member that there\u2019ll be restrictions placed on where and what events they can volunteer at, due to any agreed pre-existing relationship and that part of their continued volunteering/attendance will be to accept and adhere to any restrictions put in place.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EIf the answers to the questions or other information available indicate that this relationship doesn\u2019t fall into the criteria of a pre-existing relationship, be transparent. If you feel that you need to take advice, let them know and give them an appropriate timescale when you\u2019ll give them an update.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIf you\u2019re unsure or believe that the information gained is a safeguarding concern, please contact the UK HQ Safeguarding Team.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ETelephone the UK HQ Safeguarding Team: \u002B44(0)208 433 7164\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EEmail the UK HQ Safeguarding Team:\u00A0\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:safeguarding@scouts.org.uk\u0022\u003Esafeguarding@scouts.org.uk\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EEmergency out-of-hours: \u002B44 (0)345 300 1818\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Conversation with newly appointed adult/Network member"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EMake sure that the young person and their parent/carer understands that this is a formal conversation and the outcomes will be recorded.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EStart the conversation with some simple introductions, an explanation of TSA\u2019s Safeguarding policy, and the importance of adherence to this and the Yellow Card to keep young people are safe.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EExplain that the Yellow Card states, \u2018Do not overstep the boundaries between yourself and children or young people by engaging in friendships or sexual relationships\u2019, and the exemption of pre-existing relationships.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EExplain that their membership of TSA, as a young person, will be prioritised.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EAsk the young person about the relationship (following similar questions that were suggested above), acknowledging that it\u2019s difficult having these conversations with them and in front of their parent/carer.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EMake sure you gain clarity regarding what group/s the young person attends and what events they plan or are considering attending.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EAsk the parent(s)/carer(s) questions in regards to the relationship between their child and the over 18 year old. Key points to cover are:\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EHow long have they known about the relationship?\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EWhat were their views when they found out about the relationship?\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EWhat are their views of the relationship now?\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EHow old was their child at the commencement of the relationship?\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EDo they know how they met?\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EDo they have any concerns?\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EDo they understand why TSA requires this conversation and process to occur?\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EDo they have any questions?\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ERemember that each person will be different and some may find discussing personal issues difficult or embarrassing. Reassure them as to why this conversation occurred.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EExplain to the young person and their parent/carer that you\u2019ve spoken to the under 18, how you plan to store and share any information you record, and what the next steps will be.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EExplain to the young person and their parent/carer that there\u2019ll be restrictions placed on the adult/Network member as to where and what events they can volunteer at due to any agreed pre-existing relationship, and that part of their continued volunteering/attendance will be to accept and adhere to any restrictions put in place. There would be an expectation that the young person and their parent/carer are in agreement and support any restrictions.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EIf the answers to the questions or other information available indicate that this relationship doesn\u2019t fall into the criteria of a pre-existing relationship, be transparent. If you feel that you need to take advice, inform the young person and their parent/carer of this and give them an appropriate timescale when you\u2019ll give them an update.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIf you\u2019re unsure or believe that the information gained is a safeguarding concern, please contact the UK HQ Safeguarding Team.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ETelephone: \u002B(0)208 433 7164\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EEmail: \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:safeguarding@scouts.org.uk\u0022\u003Esafeguarding@scouts.org.uk\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EEmergency out-of-hours: \u002B44 (0)345 300 1818\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Conversation with young person (under 18) and their parent/carer"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EIt\u2019s important all parties understand what will take place next. If it\u2019s clear that this is an excepted pre-existing relationship then discussions should be had with all parties as to the next steps. You should explain that the adult/Network member will not be able to volunteer/attend in any group or attend any event in any capacity that the young person (under 18) will be attending. Therefore, it\u2019s important that an open dialogue continues between all parties, so that you or your nominated representative are kept updated regarding any movement or attendance to future events.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIf it\u2019s unclear whether the relationship meets the criteria of a pre-existing relationship, then be transparent with all parties and advise them that you need to gain further information or clarity and the timescales involved.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIf it\u2019s clear that the relationship doesn\u2019t meet the criteria of a pre-existing relationship, it\u2019s important that all parties are informed of this decision and the reasons for this. The adult/Network member shouldn\u2019t have their appointment approved if they\u2019re in a relationship with a young person (under 18) that doesn\u2019t fall into this criteria. If you\u2019re in any doubt either about the relationship or how to proceed, please contact the UK HQ Safeguarding Team.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EIf you have concerns regarding any \u2018relationship\u2019 disclosed, make contact with the UK HQ Safeguarding Team immediately.\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Next steps"}]},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch3\u003EAppendix F: The Yellow Card (Safeguarding Code of Conduct for Adults)\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDo remember that you are a role model at all times, inside and outside of Scouts. You must set a good example for others to follow.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDo treat everyone with dignity and respect in line with the Scout Values.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDo treat all young people equally \u2013 do not show favouritism\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDo follow the adult-to-young-people ratios at all times.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDo remember that you have been placed in a position of trust \u2013 do not abuse this trust.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDo report all safeguarding concerns directly to the Safeguarding Team as soon as possible, and always within 24 hours.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDo contact the Safeguarding Team if you receive details of any statutory agency (for example, the police, the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) or children\u2019s services) involvement regarding a member.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDo remember that someone may misinterpret your actions.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDo respect children\u2019s and young people\u2019s right to personal privacy.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDo act within appropriate boundaries, even in difficult circumstances.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDo encourage an open and transparent culture, where people challenge or report behaviour that is not in line with this code.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDo make everyone aware of our safeguarding arrangements. Share our Yellow Card with volunteers, parents and guardians, and display it where meetings take place.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDo create an environment where children and young people feel safe and able to voice their concerns.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDo have separate sleeping accommodation for young people and adults, as well as young leaders working with a younger section.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDo plan activities that involve more than one other person being present. If that\u2019s not possible, make sure other people can see and hear what\u2019s going on.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDo not plan to be alone with a child or young person in Scouts, either online or in person.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDo not drink alcohol when you are directly responsible for children and young people in Scouts, and never allow under 18s to drink alcohol on Scout activities\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDo not trivialise concerns or abuse.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDo not let concerns or abuse go unreported. Contact the Safeguarding Team, especially if you feel your concern has not been taken seriously.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDo not join in physical contact games with children and young people.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDo not overstep the boundaries with children and young people by being involved in friendships or personal relationships with them.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDo not allow activities that encourage bullying behaviour, including initiation ceremonies, dares or forfeits.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDo not use inappropriate, suggestive or threatening language, whether verbal, written or online.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDo not rely on your reputation or position to protect you.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDo not get involved with a safeguarding concern if you have a personal friendship or family connection with those involved. Step back and tell the Safeguarding Team about the connection.\u003C/p\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Ch3\u003EAppendix G: Orange Card (Safeguarding Code of Conduct for Young Leaders)\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDo remember that you are a role model. Other young people, particularly younger sections, will look up to you as a Young Leader so you must set a good example for them to follow.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDo listen to other young people if they have a worry or a concern. It\u2019s important that you (and other young people and Young Leaders) tell an adult leader or the UK UK HQ Safeguarding Team about anything that makes you (or them) feel uncomfortable.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDo treat all young people equally and with respect, in line with the Scout values. It\u2019s important not to have favourites.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDo say \u2018stop\u2019 if you feel an activity is unsafe. Know your limits and stay safe.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDo not plan to be alone with a young person or group of young people, either in person or online. Remember, there should be at least two adults present at any Scouts activity.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDo not join in physical contact games with children and young people.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDo not have romantic or sexual relationships with anyone in the section.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDo not use substances, such as alcohol, tobacco, vapes and illegal drugs, and never allow other young people to use them on Scout activities.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDo not sleep or get changed in the same area as adults or young people in the section.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDo not allow bullying behaviour, including initiation ceremonies, dares or forfeits. It\u2019s important that you (and other young people) tell an adult leader or the UK UK HQ Safeguarding Team about any bullying behaviour.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDo not use inappropriate, suggestive or threatening language, whether verbal, written or online.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003E1 July 2025\u003C/em\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""}]}],"config":null}]},"searchDescription":"Read our Safeguarding Policy, which is for everyone in Scouts and includes all volunteers and staff.","pageType":null,"location":null,"browserTitle":"","versionDate":"14 July 2023","reviewDate":"08/09/2020","redirectUrl":"","id":39664,"nodeName":"Safeguarding Policy and Procedures","title":"Safeguarding Policy and Procedures","type":"contentPage","image":{"url":"/media/12108/fdl-hp.jpg?width=800\u0026height=450\u0026v=1dab8e1b20252a0","caption":"Scouts purple logo","type":"jpg","size":93039,"width":1268,"height":664,"altText":"An image of a purple background showing the white Scouts logo"},"assets":null,"headerOptions":{"headerTitle":"Safeguarding policy and procedures","headerSubTitle":"Read our Safeguarding Policy, which is for everyone in Scouts and includes all volunteers and staff.","headerCta":"","headerCtaText":"","headerCtaLink":"","headerBackgroundColour":"003982","showSEOImage":false,"headerBackgroundImage":null,"quickLinks":[{"caption":"","title":"Scouts\u0027 Complaints Policy","url":"/about-us/policy/scouts-complaints-policy/","newWindow":true},{"caption":"","title":"Volunteer anti-bullying and harassment policy and procedures","url":"/about-us/policy/anti-bullying-and-harassment-policy/","newWindow":true},{"caption":"","title":"Whistleblowing","url":"/about-us/policy/whistleblowing/","newWindow":true},{"caption":"","title":"Concerns regarding Scouts\u2019 UK headquarters","url":"https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/88e5231522834691b3f62eca19cdce37","newWindow":true}]},"subHeader":"Read our Safeguarding Policy, which is for everyone in Scouts and includes all volunteers and staff.","silktide":"eyJjbXMiOiJVbWJyYWNvIiwiZWRpdG9yVXJsIjoiaHR0cHM6Ly9wcm9kLWNtcy5zY291dHMub3JnLnVrLy91bWJyYWNvIy9jb250ZW50L2NvbnRlbnQvZWRpdC8zOTY2NCJ9","canonicalUrl":"https://www.scouts.org.uk/about-us/policy/safeguarding-policy-and-procedures/"}