1. Policy Statement
At Supplies4lyfe, we are committed to promoting the safety, dignity, and wellbeing of all individuals who interact with our organisation, including employees, contractors, partners, and members of the public. We recognise our duty of care to safeguard and promote the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults and are committed to maintaining safe and respectful environments.
Although our core operations do not involve direct services to vulnerable groups, we uphold safeguarding as a vital component of our ethical and corporate responsibility.
2. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to:
Provide clear guidance on recognising and responding to safeguarding concerns
Outline the responsibilities of staff and partners in protecting individuals from harm
Ensure compliance with UK safeguarding legislation and best practices
Promote a culture of accountability and vigilance
3. Scope
This policy applies to:
All Supplies4lyfe employees (full-time, part-time, temporary)
Contractors, agency staff, interns, and volunteers
Partners and suppliers when acting on behalf of Supplies4lyfe
Visitors to our premises (where applicable)
4. Legal Framework
This policy is aligned with relevant UK legislation and guidance, including:
Children Act 1989 & 2004
Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018)
Care Act 2014
Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006
Modern Slavery Act 2015
UK GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018
5. Definitions
Safeguarding: Protecting people’s health, wellbeing, and human rights—especially those at risk of abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
Vulnerable Adults: People aged 18+ who are at increased risk due to age, disability, illness, or dependency.
Abuse: Includes physical, emotional, sexual, financial abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
6. Roles & Responsibilities
a. Management
Ensure safeguarding policies and procedures are in place and reviewed regularly.
Appoint a designated safeguarding officer (DSO).
Promote a culture of vigilance and zero tolerance for abuse.
b. Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO)
Primary point of contact for safeguarding concerns.
Responsible for reporting incidents and coordinating responses.
c. Employees and Contractors
Must complete safeguarding awareness training (if applicable).
Report any concerns or disclosures promptly to the DSO.
Treat all individuals with respect and dignity.
7. Safeguarding Principles
We follow these key principles:
Zero Tolerance for abuse, neglect, exploitation, or harassment.
Duty of Care to take appropriate action if concerns are raised.
Confidentiality – All concerns will be handled sensitively and in accordance with data protection laws.
Prevention First – Encouraging safe practices and raising awareness.
8. Reporting Concerns
If you witness or suspect abuse, neglect, or exploitation:
Report immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Officer.
Do not confront the alleged perpetrator.
Maintain confidentiality and factual reporting.
In an emergency, contact local authorities or dial 999.
9. Safer Recruitment & Conduct
Where roles involve contact with vulnerable groups, appropriate background checks (DBS) will be carried out.
All staff are expected to follow the Code of Conduct, which prohibits abusive, discriminatory, or exploitative behaviour.
10. Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed annually or in response to changes in safeguarding legislation or company operations.