Literacy Aid UK
Registered Charity No. 1181990

1. Policy Statement

Literacy Aid UK is committed to safeguarding the welfare of all individuals we engage with, especially children, young people, and adults at risk. We believe everyone, regardless of age, ability, disability, gender, race, religion, or background, has the right to feel safe, valued, and respected. We take seriously our duty of care and will take all reasonable steps to ensure that those who access our programmes, events, or services are protected from harm, abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

2. Scope of Policy

This policy applies to all staff, trustees, volunteers, interns, and partners working on behalf of Literacy Aid UK, across all locations and programmes including our Diverse Voices Libraries, Literacy Surgery Hubs, book donation initiatives, and international literacy outreach.

3. Our Safeguarding Commitments

– We will take a proactive and preventative approach to safeguarding.
– We will ensure all staff and volunteers receive appropriate safeguarding training and understand their responsibilities.
– We will operate robust recruitment, selection, and vetting procedures for all roles involving contact with children or adults at risk.
– We will create safe, inclusive environments in all our spaces – physical and digital – where everyone feels able to raise concerns.
– We will respond promptly and appropriately to any safeguarding disclosures or concerns, and record and report all incidents in line with statutory and best-practice guidance.

4. Safeguarding Leads

Our designated safeguarding lead (DSL) is responsible for overseeing the implementation of this policy, providing guidance, and managing any concerns or incidents. A deputy safeguarding lead will act in their absence. Their contact details will be made known to all team members and volunteers.

5. Reporting Concerns

Anyone who has concerns about the welfare or safety of a participant, volunteer, or member of staff should report it immediately to the DSL. If someone is in immediate danger, emergency services must be contacted on 999.

6. Confidentiality

We respect individuals’ rights to confidentiality but recognise that safeguarding concerns must always be shared with the appropriate professionals where necessary to protect those at risk.

7. Working in Partnership

Literacy Aid UK is committed to working collaboratively with schools, community groups, local authorities, probation services, and other safeguarding partners to ensure the best outcomes for individuals we support.

8. Review and Updates

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if there is a significant change in legislation, best practice, or the nature of our work. Any updates will be approved by the Board of Trustees and shared with all staff and volunteers.