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Child Protection Policy

Effective Date: January 2024
Last Review Date: January 2026

1. Purpose

This policy outlines how Overcome will respond to any concerns relating to the safety or wellbeing of children, in line with safeguarding principles and UK legislation.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

  • All staff
  • Trainees (including placement students)
  • Volunteers and contractors

3. Service Scope and Position

Overcome provides remote mental health coaching services only to adults aged 18 and over.

  • The organisation does not work directly with children or young people
  • Clients must confirm they are 18+ before accessing services
  • Any under-18 individuals are not accepted into the service and are signposted appropriately

4. Safeguarding Principles

Although the organisation does not work with children, we recognise our responsibility to:

  • Act on any safeguarding concerns that may arise
  • Prioritise the safety and welfare of children
  • Follow appropriate reporting procedures where necessary

5. Situations Where Concerns May Arise

Child protection concerns may arise if:

  • A client discloses risk of harm to a child
  • A client describes behaviour that may place a child at risk
  • A practitioner becomes aware of potential abuse or neglect involving a child

6. Recognising Risk

Concerns may include:

  • Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse
  • Neglect
  • Exposure to domestic abuse
  • Any situation where a child may be at risk of harm

7. Responding to Concerns

If a concern arises, staff and placement students must:

  1. Remain calm and listen without judgement
  2. Avoid making promises of confidentiality
  3. Clarify information only where necessary
  4. Record the concern accurately

8. Escalation Procedure

  • All concerns must be immediately escalated to the Clinical Supervisor (Safeguarding Lead)
  • Staff and students must not attempt to manage safeguarding concerns independently

The Safeguarding Lead will:

  • Assess the level of risk
  • Determine appropriate action
  • Make referrals where necessary

9. External Reporting

Where there is a risk of harm to a child:

  • Relevant services may be contacted, including:
    • Local safeguarding teams
    • Social services
    • Emergency services (if immediate risk)

Confidentiality may be breached where necessary to protect a child.

10. Training and Awareness

All staff and placement students receive:

  • Training in safeguarding awareness
  • Guidance on recognising and responding to concerns
  • Clear instruction on escalation procedures

11. Record Keeping

  • All safeguarding concerns are documented
  • Records are stored securely in line with GDPR requirements
  • Access is restricted to appropriate personnel

12. Monitoring and Review

  • Safeguarding concerns are reviewed by the Clinical Supervisor
  • This policy is reviewed annually or as required