Havenbridge College London

Safeguarding and Prevent Policy

Effective Date: [TBA] 

1. College Overview

College Name: Havenbridge College London
Address: 15 Friars Close, Ilford, IH1 4AZ 
Website: www.havenbridgecollege.co.uk
Email: info@havenbridgecollege.co.uk

2. Introduction and Policy Purpose 

This policy outlines Havenbridge College London’s commitment to safeguarding the welfare of all students, particularly children, young people, and vulnerable adults. It details our responsibilities and strategic framework to prevent harm and protect students from abuse, neglect, exploitation, and radicalisation, in accordance with statutory guidance.

3. Legislative Framework

This policy is guided by: Children Act 1989 & 2004, Education Act 2002, Keeping Children Safe in Education (2024), Working Together to Safeguard Children, Care Act 2014, and the Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015. These form the basis of our statutory responsibilities.

4. Roles and Responsibilities

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): To Be Assigned

Deputy DSL(s): To Be Assigned

Principal: To Be Assigned

All staff have to safeguard students, report concerns promptly, and undertake safeguarding and Prevent training. The DSL is responsible for referrals, training oversight, and liaising with external agencies.

5. Types of Abuse and Risk Indicators

Abuse includes physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, and neglect. Risk indicators may include sudden behaviour change, absenteeism, unexplained injuries, isolation, or radicalised views. Online abuse and extremist material are also safeguarding concerns.

6. Safeguarding Procedures

Staff should respond to any disclosure with empathy, report it immediately to the DSL, and document key details using the College’s safeguarding platform. In cases of immediate danger, emergency services should be contacted. The safeguarding team triages and manages all concerns through proper channels.

7. Prevent Duty

Under the Prevent Duty, we work to protect students from radicalisation and extremist influences. Prevent training is mandatory for staff. Concerns are referred to the DSL for possible escalation to the Channel programme. Awareness is raised through tutorials and curriculum.

8. Safer Recruitment and Staff Expectations

All staff and volunteers undergo enhanced DBS checks and must follow the Staff Code of Conduct. Safer recruitment includes reference checks, identity verification, and interviews with trained personnel. Staff are expected to model professional behaviour and maintain clear boundaries.

9. Training and Awareness

All staff receive induction training on safeguarding and Prevent, with annual refreshers. The DSL and deputies complete Level 3 training bi-annually. Students are made aware of safeguarding processes during induction and tutorials. Awareness campaigns and online safety workshops are delivered regularly.

10. Confidentiality and Information Sharing

Confidentiality cannot be promised to students making disclosures. Information is shared with safeguarding staff on a need-to-know basis and may be referred externally to protect the student. Records are securely stored in compliance with GDPR.

11. Policy Review and Monitoring

This policy is reviewed annually by the Senior Leadership Team and Governing Body. Changes in legislation, guidance, or serious incidents will trigger an immediate review. Compliance is monitored through internal audits, feedback, and external inspections.