GRM Podiatry believes that it is always unacceptable for anyone to experience abuse of any kind and recognises its responsibility to particularly safeguard the welfare of all children, young people and vulnerable adults, by a commitment to practice and behaviour which protects them. We recognise that: • The welfare of the child/young person/vulnerable adult is paramount • All patients, regardless of age, disability, gender, racial heritage, religious belief, sexual orientation or identity, have the right to equal protection from all types of harm or abuse • Working in partnership with children, young people, vulnerable adults and their parents/guardians, carers and other agencies is essential in promoting patient welfare. The purpose of the policy: • To provide protection for the children, young people and vulnerable adults who receive GRM Podiatry services, including the children of adult patients or users. • To provide staff, associates and students with guidance on procedures they must adopt in the event that they suspect a child, young person or vulnerable adult may be experiencing, or be at risk of, harm. This policy applies to all staff, including the practice manager, paid staff, associates, volunteers and sessional workers, agency staff, students or anyone working on behalf of GRM Podiatry within a premise which is the responsibility of the practice. We will seek to safeguard children, young people and vulnerable adults by: • Valuing all people as individuals, listening to and respecting their wishes and needs. • Adopting child and vulnerable adult protection guidelines, confidentiality guidelines and the code of conduct of The Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists and The Health and Care Professionals Council for all staff, students, associates and volunteers. • Recruiting staff and volunteers safely, ensuring all necessary DSB checks are made • Sharing information about child protection and good practice with children, parents, staff, associates and volunteers • Reporting information about concerns with agencies who need to know, and involving parents and children appropriately • Providing effective management for staff and volunteers through supervision, support and training. We are also committed to reviewing our policy and good practice annually. Practice Owner Signature: Gregor McCoshim Adopted on: July 2020 Review Date: July 2021