top of page

Safeguarding Policy | How We Heal CIC – Trauma Recovery & Wellbeing

Our Commitment to Safeguarding

​

At How We Heal CIC, safeguarding is at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to providing safe, supportive, and trauma-informed services for women and survivors of domestic abuse, sexual violence, and trauma.

We believe every person has the right to feel safe, respected, and protected from harm. This Safeguarding Policy sets out how we ensure the welfare of all participants, staff, volunteers, and partners who engage with our services.

​Scope of this Policy

This policy applies to:All staff, directors, and volunteers at How We Heal CICParticipants in our programmes, both in groups and one-to-one sessionsPartner organisations and contractors working alongside us

Safeguarding Principles

We are guided by the following principles:

  • Safety first: We prioritise the physical and emotional safety of all participants.

  • Empowerment: Survivors are supported to make choices and have control over their recovery.

  • Prevention: We take proactive steps to prevent harm and minimise risks.

  • Confidentiality: Information is handled with care and only shared when necessary to protect someone from harm.

  • Partnership: We work collaboratively with local safeguarding boards, statutory agencies, and VAWG sector organisations.

Safeguarding in Practice

To keep people safe, How We Heal CIC ensures that:

  • All staff and volunteers are trained in safeguarding and trauma-informed practice.

  • Clear procedures are in place for responding to safeguarding concerns.

  • A Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) is appointed to oversee safeguarding.

  • Referrals to statutory agencies are made where required to protect individuals at risk.

  • Venues used for in-person work are risk-assessed for safety and accessibility.

  • Online sessions are delivered securely, with safeguarding protocols in place.

Designated Safeguarding Lead

Our Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) is:

The DSL is responsible for:

  • Responding to safeguarding concerns and disclosures

  • Keeping safeguarding records secure and confidential

  • Liaising with safeguarding boards and external agencies

Reporting Concerns

If you are worried about your own safety, or the safety of someone else engaged with How We Heal CIC:

  • Speak directly to our Designated Safeguarding Lead.

  • If urgent and someone is at immediate risk of harm, call 999.

  • For non-emergency concerns, contact your local safeguarding board or 101 for police advice.

Review of Policy

​This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if required, to ensure it remains up to date with safeguarding legislation and best practice within the VAWG sector.

bottom of page