Due to the nature of our Society, and the fact we accept people from the age of 16 years old, we must maintain a strict safeguarding policy.

Society of Augustus Safeguarding Policy:

1. Introduction

The Society of Augustus ("the Society") is committed to creating a safe and respectful environment for all members, volunteers, and participants. This policy outlines our approach to safeguarding individuals, particularly children (those under 18 years of age) and vulnerable adults, from harm, abuse, or exploitation.

2. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to:

• Protect children and vulnerable adults who are members of, or engage with, the Society.

• Provide guidance to all members and affiliates on the procedures for preventing, identifying, and responding to safeguarding concerns.

3. Scope

This policy applies to all members, volunteers, staff, contractors, and any individuals representing or acting on behalf of the Society, regardless of their location.

4. Definitions

• Child: Any individual under the age of 18.

• Vulnerable Adult: A person aged 18 or over who may be unable to protect themselves from harm or exploitation due to factors such as age, disability, or illness.

• Safeguarding: Actions taken to promote the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and protect them from harm.

• Abuse: Any action that causes harm to a child or vulnerable adult, including physical, emotional, sexual abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

5. Policy Statements

• The Society has zero tolerance for abuse, exploitation, or neglect.

• All Fellows and members are responsible for promoting a safe environment and acting promptly on any safeguarding concerns.

• The Society is committed to ensuring that all activities and interactions are conducted in a manner that upholds the dignity and safety of all individuals.

6. Prevention

To prevent safeguarding incidents, the Society will:

• Recruitment and Training:

  • Implement thorough vetting procedures for all individuals working with children or vulnerable adults.

  • Provide regular safeguarding training to members, volunteers, and staff to ensure awareness and understanding of safeguarding responsibilities.

• Code of Conduct:

  • Establish and enforce a code of conduct that outlines acceptable and unacceptable behaviors when interacting with children and vulnerable adults.

• Risk Assessment:

  • Conduct regular risk assessments for activities involving children or vulnerable adults to identify and mitigate potential risks.

7. Reporting and Responding to Concerns

• Reporting:

  • Encourage all members and affiliates to report any concerns or suspicions of abuse or neglect promptly.

  • Provide clear procedures for reporting concerns, including anonymous reporting mechanisms if necessary.

• Response:

  • Take all reports seriously and ensure they are investigated promptly and thoroughly.

  • Maintain confidentiality and protect the identity of individuals involved, sharing information only with those who need to know.

  • Cooperate fully with law enforcement and other relevant authorities during investigations.

8. Confidentiality and Data Protection

• Ensure that all personal information is handled in accordance with applicable data protection laws and the Society's Privacy Policy.

• Store safeguarding records securely and restrict access to authorized personnel only.

9. Monitoring and Review

• Regularly review and update this policy to reflect changes in legislation, best practices, and organizational learning.

• Monitor the implementation of safeguarding procedures and conduct periodic audits to ensure effectiveness.

10. Roles and Responsibilities

• Safeguarding Officer:

  • Appoint a designated Safeguarding Officer responsible for overseeing the implementation of this policy and serving as the point of contact for safeguarding concerns.

• Members and Affiliates:

  • All individuals associated with the Society are responsible for familiarizing themselves with this policy and adhering to its guidelines.