1 Introduction
Oakwood Housing Group is committed to safeguarding the welfare of all residents and individuals in our care. We recognise that safeguarding is everyone's responsibility and that we must do everything within our power to ensure that vulnerable adults and young people are protected from abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
2 Our Commitment
We are dedicated to creating a safe environment for all our residents. Our commitment includes:
DBS-Checked Staff
All staff undergo enhanced DBS checks before commencing employment.
Regular Training
Ongoing safeguarding training ensures our team remains informed and vigilant.
Clear Procedures
Robust reporting procedures ensure concerns are acted upon swiftly and appropriately.
3 Recognising Abuse
Abuse can take many forms. We train our staff to recognise the signs and indicators of the following types of abuse:
Physical Abuse
Including hitting, pushing, restraining, or any act causing physical harm.
Emotional Abuse
Including threats, intimidation, humiliation, verbal aggression, or controlling behaviour.
Financial Abuse
Including theft, fraud, exploitation, or pressure relating to money and possessions.
Neglect
Including failure to provide adequate care, nutrition, medical attention, or a safe environment.
Sexual Abuse
Including any non-consensual sexual activity, harassment, or exploitation.
Modern Slavery
Including human trafficking, forced labour, and domestic servitude.
4 Reporting Concerns
If you have a safeguarding concern about a resident or individual connected to our services, it is important to report it immediately. All concerns will be taken seriously and handled sensitively.
Report internally – Speak to your line manager, the Designated Safeguarding Lead, or any senior member of staff.
Record the concern – Document what you have observed or been told, including dates, times, and any other relevant details.
Contact us – Email info@oakwoodhousinggroup.co.uk or call our office.
In an emergency, always call 999 first.
5 Staff Training
All staff receive regular safeguarding training as part of their induction and ongoing professional development. Training covers recognising signs of abuse, reporting procedures, and understanding the legal framework surrounding safeguarding. We ensure that all team members are confident and competent in fulfilling their safeguarding responsibilities.
6 Confidentiality
Safeguarding information is treated with the utmost confidentiality and shared only on a strict need-to-know basis. Information will only be disclosed to relevant professionals and agencies where it is necessary to protect an individual from harm, in line with our obligations under data protection legislation and safeguarding best practice.
7 Policy Review
This Safeguarding Policy is reviewed annually, or sooner if there are changes in legislation, guidance, or organisational practice. The review ensures that the policy remains current, effective, and in line with best practice standards.
8 Contact Us
If you have any safeguarding concerns or questions about this policy, please contact us: