Effective Date: January 2025

At Anne Oakes - Dyslexia Specialist, safeguarding the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults is a top priority. This policy outlines our commitment to ensuring their safety and promoting their well-being during all interactions.

1. Purpose and Scope
This safeguarding policy applies to all services provided by Anne Oakes. It ensures that appropriate actions are taken to protect individuals from harm, abuse, or neglect while accessing support.

2. Key Principles

• The welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults is paramount.

• All individuals have the right to feel safe and protected.

• Any concerns regarding abuse or harm will be taken seriously and acted upon promptly and appropriately.

• Confidentiality will be maintained, except where disclosure is necessary to protect an individual or comply with legal obligations.

3. Recognising Abuse
Abuse can take many forms, including:

• Physical abuse: Deliberate harm or injury.

• Emotional abuse: Persistent criticism, isolation, or humiliation.

• Sexual abuse: Inappropriate sexual behaviour or contact.

• Neglect: Failing to meet basic needs.

4. Responsibilities
As a dyslexia specialist:

• I will ensure that all activities and interactions are conducted in a safe environment.

• I will remain vigilant for signs of abuse or neglect and report concerns promptly.

• I will uphold professional boundaries and act in the best interests of those in my care.

5. Reporting Concerns
If there are safeguarding concerns:

• Immediate action will be taken to ensure the individual is safe.

• Concerns will be reported to the relevant safeguarding authority or organisation, such as local child protection services, adult safeguarding teams, or the police.

• A written record of the concern and actions taken will be kept securely.

6. Confidentiality
Information will only be shared on a need-to-know basis and in compliance with legal requirements. Consent will be sought where appropriate, unless it puts the individual at further risk.

7. Safer Working Practices
To maintain a safe environment:

• Meetings will take place in appropriate, professional settings.

• Parents, guardians, or carers will be involved where children or young people are concerned.

• Clear communication and professional boundaries will be upheld at all times.

8. Review of Policy
This policy will be reviewed annually or in response to changes in legislation or guidance.

9. Contact Information
If you have concerns about safeguarding or wish to report an issue, please contact:

• Anne Oakes - Dyslexia Specialist

• Email: hello@anneoakes.com

• Phone: 07718082538

For immediate safeguarding concerns, contact your local child protection services or the police.