Updated April 2025
Our Policies and Guidelines

Introduction

Nottingham Gurdwara is committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment for all individuals, especially children, young people, and vulnerable adults. This safeguarding policy outlines our procedures for preventing, reporting, and responding to concerns of abuse, neglect, or harm.

Scope

This policy applies to:

  1. All employees, volunteers, and trustees of Nottingham Gurdwara.
  2. All individuals participating in Gurdwara activities, programs, and services.
  3. All visitors to the Gurdwara premises

Definitions

  1. Safeguarding: The process of protecting vulnerable individuals from abuse, neglect, or harm.
  2. Vulnerable Adult: An individual aged 18 or over who may be unable to protect themselves from abuse, neglect, or harm due to physical or mental disability, age, or illness.
  3. Child: An individual under the age of 18.

Principles

  1. Prevention: We will take all reasonable steps to prevent abuse, neglect, or harm from occurring.
  2. Protection: We will take prompt and appropriate action when concerns of abuse, neglect, or harm are reported or identified.
  3. Partnership: We will work collaboratively with external agencies, organizations, and authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable individuals.
  4. Confidentiality: We will maintain confidentiality when dealing with safeguarding concerns, except where disclosure is necessary to protect the individual or others.

Safeguarding Procedures

  1. Reporting Concerns: All concerns of abuse, neglect, or harm must be reported immediately to the designated safeguarding officer (DSO) or deputy DSO.
  2. Initial Response: The DSO will assess the situation and take immediate action to ensure the safety and well-being of the individual.
  3. Investigation: The DSO will conduct a thorough investigation, gathering relevant information and evidence.
  4. Referral to External Agencies: The DSO will refer the concern to external agencies, such as social services, police, or other relevant authorities, as necessary.
  5. Support and Follow-up: The DSO will provide ongoing support and follow-up to ensure the individual’s safety and well-being.

Roles and Responsibilities

  1. Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO): Responsible for coordinating safeguarding efforts, providing guidance, and ensuring compliance with this policy.
  2. Deputy DSO: Supports the DSO and assumes responsibility in their absence.
  3. Trustees: Ensure the Gurdwara’s compliance with safeguarding legislation and best practices.
  4. Employees and Volunteers: Report concerns, provide support, and participate in safeguarding training.

Training and Awareness

  1. Safeguarding Training: Regular training sessions will be provided for employees, volunteers, and trustees to ensure they are aware of their roles and responsibilities.
  2. Awareness Campaigns: The Gurdwara will promote safeguarding awareness through campaigns, events, and community engagement.

Review and Update

This policy will be reviewed and updated annually, or as necessary, to ensure compliance with changing legislation and best practices.

Our Policies and Guidelines