Safeguarding and Protection Policy

1. Policy Statement

Paving Paths Recruiters (PPR) is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all learners, staff, and partners involved in our training programmes. We uphold every individual’s right to learn and work in an environment free from harm, abuse, neglect, discrimination, and exploitation.

This policy applies to:

• All learners (including adults and vulnerable adults)
• All trainers, facilitators, and guest speakers
• Any external partners or venues affiliated with PPR

2. Purpose of the Policy

The purpose of this policy is to:

• Protect all learners, especially those who may be vulnerable.
• Provide clear procedures for recognising and reporting safeguarding concerns.
• Ensure all staff and trainers know their responsibilities and act appropriately.
• Promote a culture of safety, openness, and support across all training sessions.

3. Definitions

• Safeguarding: Measures taken to protect people’s health, wellbeing, and human rights.
• Abuse: Any action that intentionally harms or risks harming another person (physical, emotional, sexual, financial, etc.).
• Vulnerable Adult: A person aged 18+ who is unable to take care of themselves or protect themselves from harm due to mental health, disability, illness, or personal situation.
• Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): The person responsible for handling safeguarding concerns.

4. Roles and Responsibilities

5. Recognising Signs of Abuse

Staff and trainers should be alert to the following potential signs:

• Sudden changes in behaviour or mood
• Unexplained injuries or physical discomfort
• Expressions of fear, withdrawal, or distress
• Disclosures or mentions of unsafe home/work environments
• Evidence of neglect (poor hygiene, malnourishment)

6. Reporting Procedure

If you have a safeguarding concern:

1. Immediately inform the DSL: Email: safeguarding@pavingpathsrecruiters.com (or escalate via support@pavingpathsrecruiters.com)
2. Record the facts: Include date, time, who was present, and what was said or observed.
3. Do not investigate: It is not your role to determine if abuse occurred only to report concerns.
4. Follow up: Ensure the concern has been acknowledged and is being addressed.

7. Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

Name: Zuhair Amir Baurak

Email: safeguarding@pavingpathsrecruiters.com

Responsibilities:

• Receive and log all safeguarding reports.
• Escalate concerns to appropriate authorities if required.
• Maintain records securely and confidentially.
• Offer support and guidance to trainers and staff.

8. Online Delivery Safeguarding

When delivering courses online:

• Trainers must use approved platforms (e.g. Zoom, Microsoft Teams).
• Keep meetings private and protected by passwords or waiting rooms.
• Monitor chat and video for inappropriate conduct.
• Do not record sessions unless written consent is received from all participants.

9. Prevent Duty

Paving Paths Recruiters is committed to preventing radicalisation and extremist influence through:

• Promoting British values of democracy, tolerance, and mutual respect.
• Encouraging open discussions in a safe and respectful environment.
• Reporting any concerns related to radicalisation to the DSL.

10. Confidentiality and Record Keeping

• Safeguarding concerns will only be shared with relevant staff on a need-to-know basis.
• All records will be securely stored for a minimum of 6 years in accordance with GDPR.
• Learners have the right to request a copy of their safeguarding file (with limits based on risk and law).

11. Review and Training

• This policy will be reviewed annually or following any significant safeguarding incident.
• Updated in accordance with UK legal changes or new industry guidance.
• Supported by safeguarding training for all delivery staff and course presenters.

12. Policy Acknowledgement

All trainers, staff, and partners must read, understand, and agree to comply with this policy before delivering any PPR course.