New Forest National Park Authority’s safeguarding policy sets out how staff, members, and volunteers must protect children, young people, and adults at risk, and how to act if they witness or receive a disclosure of abuse, neglect, domestic abuse, exploitation, modern slavery, or related risks.
It emphasises that individuals must not investigate or decide if abuse occurred, but must report any concerns, prioritising immediate safety and calling 999 if there is an urgent threat.
Concerns should be shared with a line manager where appropriate and reported to the Designated Safeguarding Lead or deputies, using a standard incident recording template that captures factual details and actions taken.
The policy defines types and indicators of abuse for children and adults, outlines handling allegations against Authority staff or members, and supports whistleblowing.
It also covers training, safer recruitment and DBS checks, working with contractors and funded groups, digital engagement, photography, confidentiality, data protection…
Key Documents
Safeguarding