1. Introduction

Creek & Pine (legal: Supernormal d.o.o, Sveti Petar Orehovec 67, 48267 Orehovec, Croatia, VAT number HR18965816268) is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all individuals we work with. This policy outlines our approach to ensuring the safety and well-being of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. It applies to all staff, volunteers, contractors, and anyone else representing our organization.

2. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to:

  • Protect children, young people, and vulnerable adults who interact with our services.
  • Provide staff and volunteers with clear guidelines on how to protect these individuals.
  • Ensure that all concerns about the safety and well-being of individuals are handled appropriately and effectively.

3. Definitions

  • Child: Anyone under the age of 18.
  • Vulnerable Adult: Anyone aged 18 or over who is unable to protect themselves from harm or exploitation.
  • Safeguarding: The process of protecting children, young people, and vulnerable adults from abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

4. Legal Framework

This policy has been drawn up based on law and guidance that seeks to protect children, young people, and vulnerable adults, including:

  • The Children Act 1989 and 2004
  • The Care Act 2014
  • The Protection of Freedoms Act 2012
  • Working Together to Safeguard Children 2018
  • The Human Rights Act 1998

5. Roles and Responsibilities

  • Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO): The DSO is responsible for overseeing the implementation of this policy, providing support and advice to staff, and ensuring all safeguarding concerns are managed appropriately.
  • Staff and Volunteers: All staff and volunteers are required to read, understand, and adhere to this policy. They must report any concerns or suspicions of abuse to the DSO.

6. Training

All staff and volunteers will receive safeguarding training appropriate to their role. This training will be refreshed regularly to ensure everyone is up-to-date with current best practices and legal requirements.

7. Recognizing Abuse

Abuse can take many forms, including:

  • Physical Abuse: Hitting, shaking, throwing, or otherwise causing physical harm.
  • Emotional Abuse: Persistent emotional maltreatment that causes severe and persistent adverse effects on emotional development.
  • Sexual Abuse: Forcing or enticing someone to take part in sexual activities.
  • Neglect: Persistent failure to meet basic physical and/or psychological needs.

8. Reporting Procedures

  1. Recognize: Be alert to the signs and symptoms of abuse.
  2. Respond: If someone discloses abuse to you, stay calm, listen carefully, and do not promise confidentiality.
  3. Report: Report your concerns to the DSO immediately. If the DSO is unavailable, or the concern involves the DSO, report to a senior manager.
  4. Record: Keep a detailed record of your concerns and any actions taken. Use the organization’s safeguarding reporting form.

9. Handling Disclosures

When handling disclosures of abuse:

  • Do not investigate the matter yourself.
  • Reassure the individual that they have done the right thing by speaking up.
  • Avoid asking leading questions.
  • Record the disclosure verbatim, including dates, times, and any names mentioned.

10. Confidentiality

Safeguarding concerns must be shared with the appropriate authorities to protect the individual at risk. Information will only be shared on a need-to-know basis. All records will be kept securely.

11. Whistleblowing

We are committed to a culture of transparency and encourage staff and volunteers to report any concerns about the behavior of colleagues or the practices within the organization. Whistleblowers will be protected and supported.

12. Monitoring and Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if there are changes in legislation or best practices. The DSO is responsible for ensuring the policy is updated and disseminated to all staff and volunteers.

Contact Information

  • Designated Safeguarding Officer: Vedran Židanik, vedran.zidanik@creekandpine.co
  • Senior Manager: Martina Đođo, martina.dodo@creekandpine.co

By adhering to this policy, Creek & Pine ensures that we provide a safe and supportive environment for all individuals we interact with.

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