Version: 1.0
Date of Approval: 28 April 2025
Next Review Date: 28 April 2026
Approved by: Board of Directors
Policy Owner: Safeguarding Lead – Lumina Pathways CIC
1. Introduction
This Safeguarding Policy outlines Lumina Pathways CIC’s commitment to the protection and welfare of all individuals who interact with our services, including tenants, service users, employees, volunteers, and the wider community. We are committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment where the rights and dignity of all individuals are upheld.
This policy applies to all our supported housing services, tenancy sustainment operations, and associated community activities throughout Greater Manchester and surrounding regions. It is aligned with UK legislation, including the Care Act 2014, Children Act 1989 & 2004, Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018), and Keeping Adults Safe in Care.
2. Our Commitment to Safeguarding
Lumina Pathways CIC believes every individual has the right to live a life that is free from abuse, neglect, exploitation, and discrimination. We:
Promote the welfare of all children, young people, and vulnerable adults we serve.
- Prevent impairment of health and development.
- Protect from abuse and neglect.
- Ensure safe and effective care environments.
- Promote respect, equality, and diversity.
3. Definitions
Safeguarding: Protecting an individual’s right to live safely, free from abuse and neglect.
Adult at Risk: A person aged 18 or over who has care and support needs and is unable to protect themselves from harm or exploitation.
Child/Young Person: Anyone under the age of 18.
Abuse: A violation of an individual’s human and civil rights by another person or persons, including physical, emotional, financial, sexual, organisational, discriminatory abuse, or neglect.
4. Legislative Framework
This policy aligns with the following laws and statutory guidance:
- Care Act 2014
- Children Act 1989 and 2004
- The Children and Social Work Act 2017
- Human Rights Act 1998
- Equality Act 2010
- Mental Capacity Act 2005
- Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018)
- Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006
5. Roles and Responsibilities
Board of Directors: Hold strategic accountability for safeguarding governance.
Safeguarding Lead: Oversees all safeguarding concerns, ensures training is completed, and acts as the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).
All Staff and Volunteers: Must be aware of their safeguarding responsibilities, complete mandatory training, and report any concerns immediately.
Partner Organisations: Must comply with safeguarding expectations under joint working agreements.
6. Types and Indicators of Abuse
Physical Abuse – Hitting, slapping, misuse of medication.
Emotional Abuse – Intimidation, threats, humiliation.
Sexual Abuse – Rape, indecent exposure, sexual harassment.
Neglect – Ignoring medical or physical care needs, failure to provide access to appropriate services.
Financial Abuse – Theft, fraud, coercion in relation to an individual’s finances.
Discriminatory Abuse – Harassment or slurs because of race, gender, disability.
Domestic Abuse – Psychological, physical, sexual, financial, or emotional abuse by a family member or partner.
Organisational Abuse – Poor care practices in group settings.
7. Reporting and Responding to Concerns
Any person may report a safeguarding concern. Concerns must be reported to the Safeguarding Lead immediately, who will:
- Assess the concern.
- Escalate to the local authority safeguarding team if necessary.
- Liaise with police or adult social care where appropriate.
- Keep accurate, confidential records.
Anonymous concerns will also be taken seriously and handled appropriately.
8. Safer Recruitment
Lumina Pathways CIC uses safer recruitment practices to prevent unsuitable individuals from working with vulnerable groups. This includes:
- Enhanced DBS checks
- Identity verification
- Work history checks
- Reference checks
- Mandatory safeguarding induction training
9. Staff Training
All staff and volunteers must complete induction and ongoing safeguarding training. Training covers:
- Understanding abuse and risk factors
- Recognising signs of abuse
- Responding appropriately
- Reporting mechanisms
- Whistleblowing procedures
10. Multi-Agency Working
We actively engage with local safeguarding boards and multi-agency teams. We share relevant information lawfully to protect individuals at risk.
Our approach includes:
- Clear referral pathways
- Timely information sharing
- Respect for confidentiality
11. Information Sharing & Confidentiality
All concerns are handled with sensitivity and confidentiality. However, where there is a risk of harm, information will be shared with appropriate agencies in line with GDPR and safeguarding law.
12. Whistleblowing
Staff are encouraged to raise concerns without fear of reprisal. Our whistleblowing policy protects individuals who disclose abuse or unsafe practice in good faith.
13. Review and Monitoring
This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if legislation or operational needs change. The Safeguarding Lead is responsible for continuous improvement and staff compliance.
Safeguarding Lead Contact:
Email: safeguarding@luminapathways.org.uk
Phone: 0161 388 3908
Emergency Contact:
Call 999 if a person is in immediate danger.
Local Safeguarding Authority (Greater Manchester):
Visit: https://www.greatermanchesterscb.org.uk/
