Safeguarding Policy
Safeguarding Policy for Harborough FM
- Introduction
Harborough FM is committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all staff, volunteers, contributors, and listeners, children, young people, and vulnerable adults. This safeguarding policy outlines our commitment to protecting individuals from harm, abuse, neglect, and exploitation while engaging with our station.
- Scope
This policy applies to all individuals involved in the station, including:
- Staff (paid and unpaid)
- Volunteers
- Presenters
- Guests and contributors
- Visitors and listeners
It covers activities within the station premises, online platforms, and external events where the station is represented.
- Principles
- Zero Tolerance: We do not tolerate any form of abuse, exploitation, discrimination, or harm.
- Safeguarding is Everyone’s Responsibility: All individuals associated with the station must take responsibility for safeguarding.
- Empowerment: We support individuals to express concerns and seek help when needed.
- Confidentiality: Safeguarding matters will be handled sensitively and in line with legal obligations.
- Types of Abuse
We recognise the following forms of abuse:
- Physical Abuse: Inflicting or threatening physical harm.
- Emotional Abuse: Persistent emotional mistreatment, including bullying and harassment.
- Sexual Abuse: Any form of unwanted sexual behaviour.
- Neglect: Failing to meet the basic needs of a child or vulnerable person.
- Online Abuse: Cyberbullying, grooming, and harmful digital content.
- Safeguarding Responsibilities
5.1 Management Responsibilities
- Ensure safeguarding policies are implemented and reviewed annually.
- Appoint a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) to oversee safeguarding concerns.
- Provide safeguarding training for all staff and volunteers.
5.2 Staff and Volunteer Responsibilities
- Follow safeguarding procedures and report any concerns.
- Maintain professional boundaries with young and vulnerable individuals.
- Use appropriate language and behaviour on-air and in station activities.
5.3 Guest and Contributor Responsibilities
- Adhere to the station’s safeguarding guidelines.
- Ensure content does not promote harmful behaviour or discrimination.
- Reporting and Responding to Concerns
6.1 How to Report a Concern
If you witness or suspect abuse, report it to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) immediately. If the DSL is unavailable, contact a senior manager.
6.2 Confidentiality and Data Protection
All reports will be handled confidentially and in compliance with data protection laws. Information will only be shared with relevant authorities when necessary.
- Safeguarding in Content and Broadcasts
- Ensure all content complies with Ofcom guidelines and does not promote harm.
- Take special care with live shows to prevent inappropriate or harmful content.
- Avoid sharing personal information of children or vulnerable adults on-air.
- Online and Social Media Safeguarding
- Monitor online interactions and remove harmful comments or messages.
- Educate staff and volunteers about online safety.
- Avoid direct, unsupervised communication with under-18s or vulnerable individuals.
- Recruitment and Training
- Conduct background checks (e.g., DBS for public facing personnel)
- Provide safeguarding training for all staff, volunteers, and presenters.
- Ensure new recruits understand safeguarding responsibilities before starting work.
- External Partnerships and Events
- Conduct safeguarding risk assessments for external events.
- Ensure all partner organisations follow safeguarding policies.
- Supervise children and vulnerable adults at events.
- Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if required due to changes in legislation or best practices.
Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): Chris Jones
Contact Email: chrishfm@hotmail.com
Contact Phone: 01858 464666 / 07790146107
This safeguarding policy helps ensure a safe and respectful environment for all individuals engaging with Harborough FM.
Revised 19th February 2026.
