Policy Statement
SALC is committed to safeguarding all individuals who engage with the organisation. Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility.
Responsibilities
All representatives must recognise concerns, record facts, report concerns immediately and maintain professional boundaries. A Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) will oversee safeguarding matters.
Reporting concerns
Immediate danger: call 999. Report all concerns to the DSL. Child safeguarding concerns should be referred through Suffolk County Council Customer First (0808 800 4005) or the online referral process. Follow Suffolk Safeguarding Partnership procedures.
Online safety and digital safeguarding
Risks include cyberbullying, harassment, phishing, scams, identity theft, data breaches, unauthorised recordings, extremist content, grooming, exploitation and misuse of social media. Use approved systems, strong passwords, multi-factor authentication, secure storage, restricted access and professional communications.
AI generated scams
AI can create convincing emails, voice messages, videos and social media content impersonating trusted contacts. Independently verify unusual requests involving money, confidential information or urgent actions. Never share passwords or security codes.
Social media use
Only authorised individuals should post on behalf of SALC. Do not share confidential information, safeguarding concerns or personal data. Report concerns through safeguarding procedures.
Record keeping
Record concerns promptly, factually and securely in line with data protection requirements.
Checklist
□ Know the DSL
□ Report concerns immediately
□ Keep accurate records
□ Maintain professional boundaries
□ Use secure systems
□ Verify unexpected requests
□ Protect personal data
□ Follow social media guidance
□ Escalate online safety concerns
□ Call 999 in an emergency
Suffolk Safeguarding Pathway
Concern Identified → Record Facts → Inform DSL → Immediate Risk? If yes, call 999. If no, refer via Customer First or Suffolk safeguarding procedures and record outcomes.
Changes to this policy
This is a controlled document and is the responsibility of the SALC CEO. It was last updated on 10th Sepember 2026.