Living Word – “Where the Word is Alive and the Spirit is Free”
Effective Date: 28/07/2025
- Policy Statement
Living Word is committed to the safeguarding and protection of children, young people, and vulnerable adults in our care. We recognise the responsibility to promote safe practice and to protect all individuals from harm, abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
- Scope
This policy applies to all staff, trustees, volunteers, and anyone involved in the life and work of Living Word in Scotland.
- Legal Framework
This policy has been developed in accordance with the following legislation and guidance:
Children (Scotland) Act 1995
Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act 2007
Adult Support and Protection (Scotland) Act 2007
UN Convention on the Rights of the Child
Guidance from the Church of Scotland, 31:8, and the Scottish Government
- Definitions
Child: Anyone under the age of 18
Vulnerable Adult: A person aged 16 or over who may be unable to protect themselves against harm or exploitation due to age, disability, illness, or mental health issues
Abuse: A violation of an individual’s human and civil rights by any other person or persons
- Safeguarding Responsibilities
Ensure that all those working with children and vulnerable adults are safely recruited and appropriately trained
Promote safe environments for all activities and ministries
Respond promptly and appropriately to safeguarding concerns or allegations
Work in partnership with statutory agencies when required
Maintain accurate records and ensure confidentiality
- Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)
Living Word has appointed a Designated Safeguarding Lead who is responsible for:
Overseeing safeguarding procedures
Receiving and recording concerns
Reporting to statutory services when necessary
Supporting those affected by abuse or harm
- Safer Recruitment
All staff and volunteers working with children or vulnerable adults must complete an application and interview process
References and PVG (Protecting Vulnerable Groups) Scheme checks will be undertaken
Regular safeguarding training and supervision will be provided
- Training and Awareness
All team members must complete safeguarding induction
Regular refresher training will be provided in line with national guidance
A safeguarding culture will be actively promoted within Living Word
- Responding to Concerns
Any concern about abuse or neglect must be reported immediately to the DSL or Deputy. In an emergency, concerns must be referred directly to Police Scotland or Social Work.
Records of all concerns will be kept securely and confidentially
No concern is too small to report
- Communication and Support
This policy will be publicly available and shared during volunteer onboarding
A clear safeguarding poster with contact information will be displayed at all events and venues
Support will be offered to those who have experienced abuse, regardless of when it occurred
- Review
This policy will be reviewed annually by the leadership team and updated in line with legislation and best practice.
- Contact Information
Designated Safeguarding Lead: Helen Rankin
Email: helen@livingword.uk
Address: 37 Michael McParland Drive Torrance G64 4EE