Safeguarding Policy

Introduction  

The Gentle Rising Counselling is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for all clients who seek my services. This safeguarding policy outlines my commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all individuals, particularly vulnerable adults who may access my counselling services.

Policy Statement  

The Gentle Rising Counselling recognises its responsibility to safeguard the welfare of all clients who engage with my services, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.

I am committed to creating an environment where clients feel safe, respected, and supported throughout their engagement with my counselling service.

My safeguarding procedures aim to identify and respond to concerns about the safety and wellbeing of clients promptly and appropriately.

Responsibilities  

I have a duty to:

• Prioritise the safety and welfare of clients at all times.
• Be vigilant for signs of abuse or neglect and report any concerns following my reporting procedures.
• Maintain confidentiality in line with professional ethics, except in cases where disclosure is necessary to protect a client from harm.

I am responsible for:

• Attending training on safeguarding policies and procedures.
• Ensuring that I adhere to safeguarding guidelines and report any concerns promptly.
• Reviewing and updating this safeguarding policy and procedures regularly to reflect best practice and legislative changes.
  

Confidentiality  

Confidentiality is essential to the counselling process, but it may be breached if there are safeguarding concerns that require intervention to protect a client’s safety.

Clients are informed about the limits of confidentiality at the outset of counselling sessions.

Risk Assessment  

Before commencing counselling sessions, I assess clients for any potential safeguarding risks, particularly if they are vulnerable adults.

I regularly review clients’ circumstances to identify any changes that may require a reassessment of risk.

Reporting Procedures  

Any concerns about the safety or welfare of a client will be reported following my safeguarding procedures, which may include contacting relevant authorities such as social services or the police.

I will also report any safeguarding concerns to my clinical supervisor.

All safeguarding concerns, actions taken, and outcomes are documented confidentially.

Training and Support  

I attend regular training on safeguarding policies and procedures to ensure I am equipped to recognise and respond to safeguarding concerns effectively.

I also engage in ongoing supervision and consultation to maintain best practice and professional accountability.

Review and Monitoring  

This safeguarding policy will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains effective and compliant with relevant legislation and best practice guidelines.

Any incidents or near misses related to safeguarding will be monitored and used to inform improvements to my safeguarding procedures.

Conclusion  

The Gentle Rising Counselling is committed to maintaining the highest standards of safeguarding to protect the welfare of all clients who engage with my services.

This policy is communicated to clients, and I welcome feedback to help continually improve my safeguarding practices.