Safeguarding

Safeguarding refers to the proactive approach to keeping children, young people and adults at risk safe from harm.

RDA places the highest priority on safety and enjoyment, and recognises that it has a duty of care to those taking part. To ensure this, RDA UK and its member groups share a commitment not only to protect those who use their services but also to promote their welfare by taking all reasonable steps to ensure risks of harm are minimised.

In pursuit of this, RDA is committed to ensuring that:

• The welfare of children, young people and adults at risk are paramount and they have the right to protection from abuse.
• It takes all reasonable, practical steps to protect from harm, discrimination and degrading treatment.
• All concerns and allegations of poor practice or abuse are taken seriously and responded to swiftly and appropriately.
• All RDA member groups sign up to the RDA Safeguarding Policy.
• Everyone knows and accepts their responsibilities and works together for the safeguard of all involved.
• As part of our commitment to safeguarding, we adhere to rigorous recruitment practices to ensure that only the most suitable candidates are selected for roles involving contact with vulnerable populations.
• Our recruitment process includes thorough background checks and we also require volunteers to provide appropriate references and undergo training on safeguarding policies and procedures.
• By prioritising the safety and well-being of those we serve, we aim to create an environment where everyone feels respected, protected, and empowered. Our commitment to safer recruitment is unwavering, and we continuously review and update our practices to uphold the highest standards of care and protection.

Worried about a child or adult at risk?

If you think someone is at immediate risk of abuse or harm, contact the police on 999 without delay.

Please note If an adult at risk is in immediate danger, it is good practice, and at Group discretion, to take into consideration the adult’s wants and needs on what they would like to happen, where possible

All reports or enquiries concerning the welfare of a child or adult at risk must go straight to the Group Safeguarding Lead as the first port of call. If unavailable, contact the RDA Safeguarding Team at safeguarding@rda.org.uk or telephone 01926 492915.