1. Purpose of the Safeguarding Policy
Safeguarding means protecting individuals, particularly vulnerable children and adults, from harm, abuse and neglect. It involves creating a safe environment and promoting people’s health, wellbeing, and human rights. This statement outlines how Menopause Cafe charity aims to safeguard participants.
2. Background
The Menopause Cafe is a Scottish Charity Incorporated Organisation, registration number 048435, registered with the Scottish Charity Regulator, OSCR. Menopause Cafe charity operates on a social franchising model. The Menopause Cafe hosts are social franchisees, running Menopause Cafes in their community or workplace, remotely or in person.
3. Safeguarding Statement
Our trustees view safeguarding responsibilities as an important governance matter. It is a fundamental part of operating as a charity for public benefit. We provide support to Cafe Hosts, employees, volunteers and Trustees who may encounter people who may be at risk of harm. Cafe Hosts are advised to become familiar with local sources of support, where these are available.
4. Safeguarding Procedures
The Operating Procedures which our social franchisees agree to, advises them thus:
“While hosting cafes or inbetween cafes eg in WhatsApp groups, you may be concerned for someone’s safety eg child protection, domestic abuse, self-harm or suicidal thoughts. You may feel it appropriate to signpost them to support agencies or professionals, so please make sure that you are aware of how to do so in your locality eg advise them to contact their doctor, Women’s Refuge, domestic abuse helplines, phone helplines like Samaritans UK 116 123, in line with your national guidelines. You are not expected to take any direct action.
You may find the following advice and guidance from the UK useful:
- Abuse and neglect of adults at risk (safeguarding) – Social care and support guide – NHS
- Children and young people’s care and support services – Social care and support guide – NHS
- Self-harm – NHS
Please let us know of any safeguarding incidents where you had concerns and took action, since this will help increase our pool of knowledge and may inform updates of this policy.
If children under 18 attend your Cafes, they must be accompanied by a responsible adult, who is responsible for their safeguarding”
5. Communication
This policy is available on the Menopause Cafe charity website.