Safeguarding Policy
For #beMagic Program and Magic Swim CIC

Policy Statement
Magic Swim CIC and the #beMagic Program are committed to ensuring a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all participants, particularly vulnerable adults and young individuals with learning disabilities, autism, and similar conditions. This policy outlines our approach to safeguarding participants, promoting their welfare, and preventing harm, abuse, and neglect.

1. Purpose of the Policy
To protect children, young people, and adults with learning disabilities participating in #beMagic and Magic Swim CIC activities.
To provide staff, volunteers, and partners with guidance on safeguarding responsibilities and best practices.
To ensure incidents or concerns are handled appropriately, sensitively, and in a timely manner.

2. Scope of the Policy
This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, contractors, and associates working with Magic Swim CIC and #beMagic.
It covers all activities, including swim lessons, events, and community interactions, where participants are under the care of Magic Swim CIC staff or affiliates.

3. Definitions
Child: Any person under the age of 18.
Vulnerable Adult: An individual aged 18 or over who may be unable to protect themselves from harm or exploitation due to disability, age, illness, or life circumstances.

4. Roles and Responsibilities
Safeguarding Officer: Appointed to oversee safeguarding practices, act as the main point of contact for concerns, and coordinate responses to safeguarding incidents.
Staff and Volunteers: Responsible for maintaining a safe environment, adhering to this policy, reporting concerns, and participating in required safeguarding training.
Parents and Caregivers: Encouraged to engage with the program and to raise any concerns regarding participant safety.

5. Code of Conduct
Treat all participants with respect, empathy, and fairness.
Use inclusive, non-discriminatory language and actions, adapting communication to meet participants’ needs.
Maintain professional boundaries and avoid personal relationships with participants outside of program activities.
Avoid one-on-one situations where staff or volunteers are alone with a participant; ensure there is always visibility or another responsible adult present.
Seek consent from participants (or their guardians) for photos or recordings used in public media or promotional materials.

6. Safe Recruitment Practices
Conduct background checks (e.g., Access NI checks) on all staff, volunteers, and contractors working directly with participants.
Verify qualifications and relevant experience in working with vulnerable groups, particularly individuals with learning disabilities and autism.
Include safeguarding responsibilities in job descriptions and contracts for staff and volunteers.

7. Training and Awareness
Provide all staff and volunteers with safeguarding training, including recognizing signs of abuse, handling disclosures, and understanding reporting procedures.
Ensure training is updated regularly, especially as new safeguarding legislation or best practices emerge.
Encourage ongoing discussion of safeguarding issues and improvements to practices in team meetings.

8. Responding to Safeguarding Concerns
Immediate Action: If a participant is in immediate danger, call emergency services (999).
Reporting Concerns: Report any suspicion of abuse, neglect, or harm to the Safeguarding Officer without delay. Staff and volunteers are required to record details accurately and confidentially.
Confidentiality: Treat all safeguarding concerns with strict confidentiality, sharing information only with those involved in the investigation or resolution.
Follow-Up: The Safeguarding Officer will ensure timely and appropriate action, following statutory reporting requirements if necessary.

9. Data Protection and Record Keeping
Maintain secure, confidential records of safeguarding incidents, reports, and responses.
Ensure that only authorized personnel can access sensitive information related to safeguarding.

10. Preventing Abuse and Promoting Well-Being
Foster an inclusive and positive environment where participants feel safe and respected.
Empower participants by encouraging them to speak up about concerns, whether related to their treatment, program activities, or personal well-being.
Promote awareness of appropriate behavior among participants and staff to prevent bullying, harassment, and discrimination.

11. Monitoring and Review
Regularly review and update this safeguarding policy to ensure alignment with best practices and current legislation.
Solicit feedback from staff, volunteers, participants, and their families to improve safeguarding measures.
Conduct periodic safeguarding audits and risk assessments in all activities to identify areas for improvement.

Contact Information for Safeguarding Officer
Name: Maciej Zielinski
Phone: 07783538894
Email: magicswim@magicswim.co.uk

Approval and Review Dates
Policy Approved: 27th of October 2024
Policy Review Date: 26th of October