Safeguarding Policy

1. Policy Statement
MYSOLUTIONSUK LIMITED t/a Ovada is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. We recognize our responsibility to protect individuals from harm and to ensure that our staff conduct themselves appropriately in all interactions.

2. Scope
This policy applies to all Ovada employees, contractors, and volunteers who may come into contact with children, young people, or vulnerable adults during their work across sectors such as schools, care homes, NHS facilities, offices, and residential environments.

3. Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)
Our appointed DSL is Zahra Yasin.
Phone: 07903334247
The DSL is responsible for:
Overseeing the implementation of this policy
Providing guidance and support to staff
Liaising with client safeguarding leads and external agencies as necessary

4. Safer Recruitment
To ensure the safety of those we serve, Ovada adheres to safer recruitment practices:
All prospective employees undergo enhanced DBS checks.
References are obtained and verified prior to employment.
Job descriptions clearly outline safeguarding responsibilities.

5. Staff Training and Conduct
All staff receive safeguarding training during induction and through regular refreshers.
Staff are expected to:
Treat everyone with respect and dignity.
Maintain appropriate boundaries and avoid situations that could be misinterpreted.
Report concerns promptly to the DSL or relevant authority.

Staff must not:
Engage in inappropriate physical or verbal contact.
Accept or give personal gifts to clients or service users.
Form personal relationships with clients or service users.

6. Recognizing and Responding to Abuse
Abuse may be physical, emotional, sexual, or take the form of neglect. Staff are trained to recognize signs of abuse and understand the procedures for reporting concerns. All concerns will be taken seriously and handled according to this policy and any client-specific safeguarding procedures.

7. Confidentiality
All safeguarding matters are treated with confidentiality. Information is shared only when necessary, in line with data protection laws and the need to protect individuals from harm.

8. Related Policies
This safeguarding policy should be read in conjunction with Ovada’s:
Whistleblowing Policy
Code of Conduct
Confidentiality/Data Protection Policy

9. Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed annually or when significant legislative or operational changes occur.