Safeguarding
Safeguarding children and vulnerable adults
EYAI is unwavering in its commitment to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from all forms of abuse and harm. This page sets out our approach in full, and the complete signed policy is available to download.
In an emergency: If a child or adult is in immediate danger, call 999. You can also contact the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000, 24 hours a day.
Our commitment
Our policy statement
Enhancing Young Adults' Independence (EYAI) is unwavering in its commitment to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from all forms of abuse and harm during any EYAI activity or interaction with its members. This policy applies to every individual working, volunteering, supervising or instructing within EYAI, each of whom bears a duty of care and responsibility for the welfare of those in their charge.
Safeguarding is not just about protection from harm. It is about actively promoting wellbeing, responding promptly and appropriately to concerns or allegations, and fostering a safe, supportive environment.
Who to contact
Our Designated Safeguarding Lead is Dan East. For advice or to report a concern, email safeguarding@eyai.co.uk.
If there is an imminent risk of harm, contact the Police or Social Services immediately.
Download the full safeguarding policy (PDF)
The signed policy document, as approved by EYAI's Safeguarding Team.
Principles and responsibilities
Everyone working or volunteering with EYAI commits to:
- Participate in yearly safeguarding training and collaborate with their manager and the safeguarding team.
- Maintain a culture where every individual is respected and children's rights to safety are upheld.
- Address safeguarding and child protection issues promptly, ensuring appropriate action is always taken.
- Minimise risks and prevent circumstances where any child or vulnerable adult might suffer harm.
- Take swift, suitable action to report and manage any concerns or incidents where someone may be, or has been, at risk.
- Work collaboratively with external agencies, such as the Police and the Disclosure and Barring Service, to ensure EYAI remains a secure, trustworthy organisation.
Recruitment and training
How we keep our team safe to work with:
- All volunteers and staff undergo basic disclosure checks through the appropriate authority (DBS for England and Wales), with enhanced checks preferred.
- Disclosure checks are renewed every three years or maintained via the update service.
- Two references are collected for each applicant.
- Induction training covers safeguarding, with mandatory annual refresher training. Engagement is monitored and recorded.
If something goes wrong
Responding to allegations or concerns
If a concern or allegation arises, we follow these steps:
Prioritise safety
Take immediate steps to protect everyone involved, such as administering first aid or separating the individuals concerned.
Contact the Police
If there is imminent risk or evidence of harm, dial 999 without delay and follow Police guidance.
Seek advice
Reach out to the 24/7 NSPCC helpline or the DSL for immediate support if required.
Inform parents or guardians
Normally, parents or guardians should be informed from the outset, unless instructed otherwise by the Police, Social Services or the NSPCC, or if doing so may increase risk or jeopardise evidence.
Record and report
Accurately document all information and actions, and notify the DSL promptly. The DSL will share relevant details with other agencies as appropriate.
Plain terms
What we mean
Safeguarding
Protecting children and vulnerable adults from maltreatment; preventing damage to their health or development; ensuring they grow up in safe, nurturing environments; and taking action to help them achieve the best possible outcomes.
Children
As defined by the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, anyone under 18 years of age, unless local law states otherwise.
Vulnerable adults and young adults
Individuals aged 18 to 25 years who may require additional support or protection.
Duty of care
The obligation for all EYAI adult members to act in the best interests of children and vulnerable adults at all times, ensuring their safety and protection.
Legal framework
This policy complies with the statutory safeguarding requirements and guidance of England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Key legislation and guidance for EYAI include Working Together to Safeguard Children and Keeping Children Safe in Education (England).
Endorsement and review
This policy has been approved by EYAI's Safeguarding Team. EYAI is committed to regular policy review and renewal at least annually, or whenever legislation changes. Last reviewed: September 2025.
Questions about safeguarding?
Parents, carers, schools and local authority partners are welcome to contact our Designated Safeguarding Lead at any time.