Helping every young person cross the bridge from potential to achievement

Helping every young person cross the bridge from potential to achievement

Safeguarding at Severn Mentoring

At Severn Mentoring, safeguarding is not just a policy — it is the foundation of our entire service.
We are committed to creating a safe, respectful and transparent environment for every learner, member of staff and partner organisation we work with.
Our safeguarding culture is proactive, consistent and rooted in best practice across Gloucestershire, Herefordshire and Monmouthshire.

Our Safeguarding Framework

We operate a robust safeguarding system that ensures every learner is protected, every concern is taken seriously, and every member of staff is confident in their responsibilities.

Section 11 Compliance

We have completed the Section 11 Self-Assessment Tool in line with Gloucestershire County Council requirements, ensuring we meet the expected standards for organisations working with children and young people.
This demonstrates our commitment to:

  • Safer recruitment

  • Clear reporting processes

  • Strong multi-agency working

  • Continuous improvement in safeguarding practice

Guided by National Statutory Frameworks

Our policies and procedures are aligned with all relevant national safeguarding legislation and guidance, including:

  • KCSIE – Keeping Children Safe in Education

  • Working Together to Safeguard Children (2023)

  • Prevent Duty and counter-extremism responsibilities

  • Local safeguarding partnership requirements across all three counties

These frameworks shape our approach to risk management, record-keeping, supervision and escalation.

Multi-Authority LADO Links

We maintain direct contact routes with LADO (Local Authority Designated Officer) teams in:

  • Gloucestershire

  • Herefordshire

  • Monmouthshire

This ensures that any allegation or concern relating to staff is handled swiftly, professionally and in accordance with statutory procedures.

Safe, Skilled and Supported Staff

Every member of our team is:

  • DBS checked (Enhanced with Children’s Barred List)

  • Trained in safeguarding, Prevent and professional boundaries

  • Inducted thoroughly before delivering any sessions

  • Supported through regular safeguarding supervision and CPD

We invest heavily in training because confident staff create safer environments.

Clear Frameworks & Procedures

We operate comprehensive policies to ensure safety, clarity and consistency across all delivery settings. These include:

  • Low-Level Concerns Framework
    Encouraging a culture of openness and early reporting.

  • Managing Allegations Against Staff
    Clear pathways for immediate action and LADO involvement.

  • Lone Working Procedures
    Ensuring staff safety and accountability in community or home-based sessions.

  • Missing Persons Protocols
    Rapid response procedures aligned with local authority and police guidance.

  • Exploitation & Harm Reduction Guidance
    Identification of risks relating to CCE, CSE, County Lines and online harm.

  • Health & Safety Compliance
    Risk assessments, safe environments, and clear expectations for both staff and learners.

These frameworks ensure every situation is managed safely, consistently and in partnership with commissioning teams.

A Culture of Transparency & Accountability

Safeguarding at Severn Mentoring is everyone’s responsibility.
We promote a culture where:

  • Concerns are raised without hesitation

  • Learners know they are heard and respected

  • Staff feel supported and informed

  • Partners trust our processes and communication

Our goal is always to ensure that every learner is safe, supported and able to thrive in a nurturing, structured environment.

Policies and Documents

 

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