Safeguarding Learner Policy

Policy Overview
At JD Aesthetics Training Academy Limited, we are committed to ensuring that all learners are safe and supported throughout their education and training. This Safeguarding Learner Policy outlines our approach to protecting learners from harm, abuse, and neglect, and provides guidance on how we prevent and respond to safeguarding concerns. Our goal is to create a safe, inclusive, and respectful learning environment where all learners feel secure, valued, and able to thrive.
This policy aligns with our responsibilities under relevant safeguarding legislation, including the Children Act 1989, the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006, the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012, and the Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) guidelines. It also reflects our duty of care to all learners, including vulnerable adults, ensuring that any safeguarding concerns are addressed promptly and effectively.

1. Purpose of the Policy
The purpose of this policy is to:
Ensure that JD Aesthetics Training Academy Limited provides a safe environment for all learners.
Outline the procedures for safeguarding and the prevention of abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
Ensure that staff are aware of their responsibilities and are trained to identify and respond to safeguarding concerns.
Detail the procedures for reporting safeguarding concerns and how we will respond to them.
Promote a culture of respect, inclusion, and well-being for all learners.

2. Scope of the Policy
This policy applies to:
All learners enrolled in education and training programs offered by JD Aesthetics Training Academy Limited, including full-time, part-time, and distance learners.
All staff, including trainers, assessors, administrative staff, and any third-party contractors or volunteers working with learners.
Parents or guardians of learners, when applicable, who are involved in the safeguarding process.
This policy covers safeguarding issues related to the following:
Abuse: Physical, emotional, sexual abuse, and neglect.
Bullying: Any form of bullying, whether verbal, physical, or cyberbullying.
Mental Health: Concerns regarding the mental and emotional well-being of learners.
Radicalization and Extremism: Protecting learners from the risks associated with radicalization and extremism (in line with the Prevent Duty).
Online Safety: Safeguarding learners from online risks, including cyberbullying, exploitation, and exposure to harmful content.
Substance Misuse: Addressing concerns related to alcohol, drugs, and other substances that may impact a learner's safety or well-being.

3. Key Principles
Learner-Centered Approach: The safety and well-being of learners are our priority. We will always act in the best interests of the learner and provide appropriate support.
Zero Tolerance to Abuse: We have a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of abuse, neglect, or harm.
Confidentiality: All safeguarding concerns will be handled with confidentiality, and information will only be shared on a need-to-know basis with relevant authorities or professionals.
Prevention: We will actively promote safeguarding awareness and provide training to prevent harm and abuse from occurring.
Clear Reporting Channels: We will ensure that learners, staff, and others know how to report safeguarding concerns and are supported throughout the process.
Partnership with Authorities: We will work closely with external safeguarding agencies, such as social services and the police, to ensure that concerns are addressed appropriately.

4. Safeguarding Roles and Responsibilities
Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): JD Aesthetics Training Academy Limited will appoint a Designated Safeguarding Lead who is responsible for overseeing safeguarding policies, training staff, and ensuring that concerns are managed effectively. The DSL will be the first point of contact for safeguarding issues.
Safeguarding Team: In addition to the DSL, a team of safeguarding officers will be designated to provide support, manage referrals, and ensure that safeguarding concerns are acted upon.
All Staff: Every member of staff has a responsibility to recognize and report safeguarding concerns. All staff must participate in safeguarding training, be familiar with this policy, and know how to escalate concerns to the safeguarding team.

5. Recognizing Signs of Abuse and Harm
JD Aesthetics Training Academy Limited will provide staff with training on how to recognize the signs of abuse, neglect, or other safeguarding concerns. Common signs of abuse or harm may include:
Physical Signs: Unexplained injuries, bruises, cuts, burns, or fractures.
Behavioral Signs: Withdrawal, anxiety, depression, aggression, or sudden changes in behavior.
Emotional Signs: Low self-esteem, excessive fear or anxiety, emotional instability.
Neglect: Malnutrition, poor hygiene, lack of appropriate clothing, or signs of insufficient care.
Sexual Abuse: Inappropriate sexual behavior or language, fear of certain individuals or places.
Online Risks: Excessive screen time, inappropriate content, online harassment, or engagement with potentially harmful individuals.
Staff should also be aware of signs of radicalization and extremism and report any concerns in line with the Prevent Duty.

6. Reporting Safeguarding Concerns
Any safeguarding concerns must be reported promptly to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) or a member of the safeguarding team. The following process should be followed:
Reporting: Concerns should be reported immediately, either verbally or in writing, using the designated safeguarding reporting forms.
Initial Assessment: The DSL will assess the concern and decide whether further action is needed, including referral to external agencies, such as social services or the police.
Record Keeping: All safeguarding concerns, reports, and actions taken will be documented securely and confidentially.
Response: The DSL will coordinate any necessary actions, including providing support to the learner and liaising with external safeguarding authorities where required.

7. Support for Learners
JD Aesthetics Training Academy Limited is committed to providing support to learners who may be at risk or experiencing safeguarding issues. Support may include:
Access to Counselling Services: Offering access to professional counseling or mental health services.
Referral to External Agencies: Referring learners to appropriate safeguarding agencies, such as social services or healthcare providers.
Specialist Support: Providing additional support, such as mentorship, a learning support assistant, or tailored learning resources, for learners who require it.
Creating a Safe Environment: Providing an environment where learners feel safe to express concerns and receive support from staff.

8. Training and Awareness
To ensure that all staff are well-equipped to handle safeguarding concerns, JD Aesthetics Training Academy Limited will:
Regular Safeguarding Training: Provide all staff with regular training on safeguarding, including how to recognize signs of abuse, how to report concerns, and how to support learners at risk.
Induction Training: Ensure that all new staff receive safeguarding training as part of their induction process.
Ongoing Awareness: Promote safeguarding awareness through regular updates and information sessions for staff and learners.

9. Confidentiality and Information Sharing
All safeguarding concerns will be treated with the utmost confidentiality. However, it is important to note that safeguarding issues may require the sharing of information with external agencies to protect the welfare of the learner. Information will only be shared on a need-to-know basis with the appropriate authorities, and staff will always inform learners about the need to share information where possible.

10. Safeguarding and Recruitment
As part of our commitment to safeguarding, JD Aesthetics Training Academy Limited will ensure that:
Safer Recruitment Practices: We follow rigorous recruitment procedures to ensure that all staff, including trainers, assessors, and volunteers, are suitable to work with learners.
Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Checks: All staff and volunteers will undergo DBS checks to assess whether they have any criminal convictions or history that would make them unsuitable for working with vulnerable groups.

11. Review of Policy
This Safeguarding Learner Policy will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains effective and compliant with current safeguarding regulations and best practices. Any changes will be communicated to staff and learners as appropriate.

12. Contact Information
If you have any safeguarding concerns or need support, please contact:
Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): Joanne Daley
Email: jdaesthetics.cheshire@gmail.com
Phone: 07712106586