Our Safeguarding and Child Protection Statement

Donohue Consulting is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all clients, particularly children and vulnerable adults. We recognize our legal and ethical responsibilities to protect individuals from harm, abuse, neglect, and exploitation. This policy outlines our commitment to safeguarding and child protection, as well as the procedures in place to address any concerns or disclosures related to child protection or safeguarding issues. 

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Principles

Client Welfare

We prioritize the welfare and best interests of all clients, especially children and vulnerable adults, ensuring that their needs, safety, and protection are paramount. This is why all of our therapists are on the updating Disclosure and Barring Service with the United Kingdom government to ensure an enhanced check has been done on their criminal record. 

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Prevention

We are proactive in preventing harm by promoting a safe and secure therapeutic environment for clients of all ages, addressing potential risks, and taking preventative measures to minimize harm.

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Recognition

We acknowledge the signs of potential harm or abuse, including physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, neglect, and exploitation. This recognition extends to clients' verbal disclosures or observed behavior that raises concerns.

Reporting and Responding

Any concerns or disclosures related to child protection or safeguarding issues will be taken seriously and promptly reported to the appropriate authorities as required by law.

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Confidentiality

While confidentiality is a cornerstone of our therapeutic practice, it cannot supersede the legal obligation to report safeguarding or child protection concerns.

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Procedures

​Identification

Therapists at Donohue Consulting are trained to recognize signs of harm or abuse, understand the process of disclosure, and observe clients for indicators of potential safeguarding issues.

Recording

Detailed and confidential records are maintained for all clients. In the event of safeguarding or child protection concerns, these records will be documented accurately and securely.

Disclosure

If a client discloses an issue of harm or abuse, the therapist will respond in a supportive, non-judgmental, and empathetic manner. The therapist will not investigate further but will report the disclosure according to legal requirements.

Reporting

If any therapist has concerns regarding the safety or well-being of a child or vulnerable adult, the matter will be reported promptly to the relevant authorities or agencies, including but not limited to the local safeguarding board.

Cooperation

Donohue Consulting will fully cooperate with any external agencies and authorities involved in safeguarding and child protection investigations.

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Training and Supervision

All therapists at Donohue Consulting receive training in safeguarding and child protection issues up to a United Kingdom Level 3. They also participate in regular supervision to discuss and address any safeguarding concerns and ensure compliance with this policy.

Review

This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure its effectiveness and to make any necessary updates in accordance with changes in legal requirements or best practices.

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Donohue Consulting is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for all clients, and this safeguarding and child protection policy reflects our dedication to their well-being. We take our responsibilities in safeguarding and child protection seriously and strive to uphold the highest ethical and legal standards. If you have any questions or concerns related to this policy, please do not hesitate to contact us.

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Date of next review: November 10th, 2024.