Safeguarding policy

1. Our commitment

Greater Manchester Vis ("the group") believes that no one should ever experience abuse, harm or neglect. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all our members, volunteers and visitors — and we expect everyone connected with the group to share this commitment.

We recognise that visually impaired people may face additional barriers to recognising or reporting harm, and we take particular care to make sure our safeguarding arrangements are accessible to everyone.

2. Who this policy protects

This policy applies to:

• Children and young people — anyone under the age of 18.
• Adults at risk — any adult who may be unable to protect themselves from harm or exploitation, whether because of a disability, illness, or other circumstances.

It applies to all members, participants, volunteers, coaches, guides, committee members and visitors, at every activity, event and online space we run.

3. Our principles

• The welfare of the child or adult at risk is always the first priority.
• Everyone, whatever their age, disability, gender, race, religion or background, has the right to protection from harm.
• All concerns and allegations are taken seriously and responded to promptly and appropriately.
• We work openly with families, carers, and where needed the relevant authorities.

4. Roles & responsibilities

Our Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) is responsible for managing safeguarding concerns, keeping records, and liaising with statutory agencies.

• Safeguarding Lead: [name to be confirmed] — hello@gmvis.org.uk, 0161 123 4567
• The Management Committee is responsible for ensuring this policy is followed and reviewed.
• Every member and volunteer is responsible for reporting any concern they have.

5. Recognising a concern

Abuse can take many forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, financial, discriminatory, and neglect. Signs may include unexplained injuries, sudden changes in behaviour, withdrawal, fearfulness, or someone telling you they have been harmed. You do not need to be certain — if something doesn't feel right, report it.

6. How to report a concern

1. If someone is in immediate danger, call 999.
2. Otherwise, tell the Safeguarding Lead as soon as possible, in person, by phone or by email.
3. Write down what you saw or were told, in the person's own words where you can, with the date and time. Stick to the facts.
4. Do not investigate yourself, promise to keep secrets, or confront the person you are worried about.

If your concern is about the Safeguarding Lead, contact any member of the Management Committee, or report directly to your local authority adult or children's safeguarding team, or the NSPCC.

7. What happens next

The Safeguarding Lead will listen, record the concern, and decide on the right next step — which may include contacting the local authority, the police, or another agency. We will keep information confidential and only share it with those who need to know in order to keep the person safe. We will support anyone who raises a concern in good faith, and no one will be treated unfavourably for doing so.

8. Safer recruitment & training

Volunteers in roles of trust are recruited safely, including references and, where appropriate, Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks. Everyone is briefed on this policy and on the standards of behaviour we expect.

9. Code of conduct

• Treat everyone with dignity and respect, and offer guiding or physical support only with consent.
• Never use language or behaviour that is abusive, discriminatory or intimidating.
• Avoid being alone and unobserved with a child or adult at risk wherever possible.
• Respect personal information and privacy.

10. Photography, video & online safety

We only take and publish photos or videos with consent, and we never publish information that could put someone at risk. Our online spaces — including our gallery and social media — are expected to be respectful and safe. Tell the Safeguarding Lead if you see anything online that worries you.

11. Useful contacts

• Emergency services: 999 (or 101 for non-emergencies)
• NSPCC: 0808 800 5000
• British Blind Sport: britishblindsport.org.uk
• Your local authority safeguarding team (children's or adults' services)