Safeguarding
West Cumbria UЗA Safeguarding Vulnerable Adults Policy
By Vulnerable Adult we mean:
Any person, who is over 18 years of age and who has need for care and support, is experiencing or is at risk of abuse or neglect and as a result of those needs is unable to protect him or herself against the abuse or neglect or risk of it.
By Abuse we mean:
The violation of a person's human and civil rights by any other person(s). It may be a single or repeated acts), physical, verbal, psychological, sexual, institutional, discriminatory or financial, an act of neglect or failure to act
Safeguarding is a term used to denote measures to protect the health, well-being and human rights of individuals, which allow vulnerable people to live free from abuse, harm and neglect.
Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility. West Cumbria U3A is fully committed to safeguarding the well-being of its members. All members should show respect and understanding for the rights, safety and welfare of others and conduct themselves in a way that reflects the principles of the U3A.
The scope of this policy and the following procedure is limited to instances which relate to activities taking place under the auspices of West Cumbria U3A.
1. West Cumbria U3A acknowledges its responsibility to safeguard the welfare of all people entrusted to its care and is committed to working to provide a safe environment for all members.
2. West Cumbria U3A confirms that it adheres to this Safeguarding Policy and the procedures, practices and guidelines. We will follow the guidance of the policy in the event of any concerns or allegations.
3. The key principles of this policy are as follows:
• The welfare of the member is, and must always be, paramount to any other consideration.
• UBA events and activities for members will follow and adhere to the National UA's policy guidelines.
• All participants regardless of age, gender, ability or disability, race, faith, culture, size, shape, language or sexual identity have the right to be protected from abuse or harm.
• All allegations, suspicions or concerns of abuse, neglect, harm and poor practice will be taken seriously and responded to swiftly, fairly and appropriately.
4. The U3A recognises that all members have the right to participate in a safe, positive and enjoyable environment whilst at the same time being protected from abuse, neglect, harm and poor practice. The U3A recognises that this is the responsibility of every adult involved.
5. The West Cumbria UA Committee will jointly act as Safeguarding Officer to deal with any issues concerning Safeguarding and Member Protection.
6. If you witness or are aware of an incident where you are concerned the welfare of a member has been put at risk you must, in the first instance, inform the Chairman or a member of the Committee.
7. The U3A will ensure that all its members will comply with all guidance and best practice as issued by the U3A.
This policy will be reviewed in 2 years time - Autumn 2026