Safeguarding Policy

Global Care is committed to protecting children and vulnerable adults from all forms of harm, abuse, and exploitation. This safeguarding policy outlines how we prevents, identifies, and responds to safeguarding concerns across all its work, both in the UK and internationally.

Our Commitment to Safeguarding

Global Care takes a zero-tolerance approach to abuse and exploitation. The organisation ensures that:

• Safeguarding is embedded in all policies, procedures, and practices.
• Everyone connected to Global Care — staff, volunteers, trustees, contractors, partners, and visitors — understands and upholds safeguarding responsibilities.
• Concerns can be raised safely and confidentially, without fear of reprisals.
• Victims are supported through a survivor-centred, trauma-informed approach.
• Allegations are handled professionally and reported to the appropriate authorities.

Who the Policy Protects

• Children: Anyone under 18, regardless of local definitions.
• Vulnerable Adults: Individuals aged 18+ who may be at increased risk due to personal or social factors.

Types of Harm Covered

The policy addresses a wide range of abuse and exploitation, including:

• Physical, emotional, and sexual abuse
• Neglect and commercial exploitation
• Harmful traditional practices
• Modern slavery and trafficking
• Domestic abuse and financial exploitation
• Discrimination, bullying, harassment, and grooming

Safeguarding in Practice

• Staff and volunteers must never be alone with a child and must maintain professional boundaries at all times.
• Safeguarding training is mandatory and regularly refreshed.
• Overseas partners must have robust safeguarding policies tailored to their local context.
• All safeguarding concerns must be reported using clear procedures, and serious incidents referred to social services or police.

Media, Technology and Data Protection

• Images and media must be used respectfully and with consent.
• Personal data is protected in line with UK legislation.
• Online interactions with beneficiaries are strictly regulated to prevent grooming or abuse.

Reporting and Accountability

• Safeguarding concerns must be reported immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO), CEO, or Board Member.
• A Safeguarding Panel reviews concerns and decides on appropriate action.
• Disciplinary measures apply to anyone who breaches the policy.
• The policy is reviewed annually and after any serious incident.

You can download the full safeguarding policy at the bottom of this page.