Adult Safeguarding Policy

Westminster Digital Bridge CIC. Version 1.0. Effective date: June 2026. Review date: June 2027.

Purpose

Westminster Digital Bridge CIC is committed to promoting the safety, wellbeing, dignity and rights of all adults who engage with our services.

We recognise that some individuals accessing digital inclusion support may be vulnerable due to age, disability, health conditions, social isolation, financial hardship, caring responsibilities or limited digital confidence.

This policy explains how safeguarding concerns will be recognised, recorded and responded to.

Scope

This policy applies to:

• The Director
• Future employees
• Volunteers
• Contractors
• Anyone delivering services on behalf of Westminster Digital Bridge CIC

Safeguarding Principles

Westminster Digital Bridge CIC will:

• Treat all participants with dignity and respect.
• Promote safe and inclusive learning environments.
• Take all safeguarding concerns seriously.
• Act promptly and proportionately.
• Maintain appropriate confidentiality.
• Share information where necessary to protect individuals from harm.
• Work cooperatively with statutory and community partners.

Designated Safeguarding Lead

The Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) is Ahmed Abdou, Founder and Director, Westminster Digital Bridge CIC.

Responsibilities include:

• Receiving safeguarding concerns.
• Maintaining safeguarding records.
• Assessing risks.
• Making referrals where appropriate.
• Reviewing safeguarding procedures annually.

Types of Safeguarding Concerns

Examples may include:

• Financial abuse or exploitation.
• Online scams and fraud.
• Emotional or psychological abuse.
• Neglect or self-neglect.
• Domestic abuse.
• Discriminatory abuse.
• Coercive behaviour.
• Concerns relating to a person’s wellbeing, safety or vulnerability.

Responding to Concerns

Where a safeguarding concern arises:

• Listen carefully and respectfully.
• Do not promise complete confidentiality.
• Record factual information as soon as possible.
• Assess immediate risk.
• Seek advice and make referrals where necessary.
• Contact emergency services where there is an immediate risk of harm.

Information Sharing

Information will only be shared where:

• The individual has provided consent; or
• A safeguarding concern requires action; or
• Disclosure is required by law.

Partnership Working

Where activities are delivered in community venues, including libraries, Westminster Digital Bridge CIC will cooperate with venue safeguarding procedures and relevant statutory agencies.

Record Keeping

Safeguarding records will be stored securely and accessed only where necessary. Records will be retained in accordance with applicable legal and safeguarding requirements.

Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if legislation, guidance or organisational activities change.