11. Specific Safeguarding Considerations

Safeguards for young people with a disability or complex/additional needs are essentially the same as other young people. Particular attention should be paid to promoting a high level of awareness of the risks of harm and to high standards of practice and strengthening the ability of young people and families to help themselves.

Volunteer line managers should ensure measures are in place to:

• Make it common practice to enable young people with a disability or complex/additional needs to make their wishes and feelings known in respect of their care and other matters
• Make sure they have access to age appropriate information.
• Make sure that all young people with a disability or any additional/complex needs know how to raise concerns and give them access to an adult with whom they can communicate.
• Recognise and utilise key sources of support including but not exclusively; staff in schools, friends and family members where appropriate;
• Ensure that there is an explicit commitment to and understanding of each young person’s safety and welfare and possible signposting opportunities
• Develop a culture of openness and joint working with parents and carers;
• Ensure all volunteers are aware of this policy and understand the requirements of good practice in intimate and personal care and the importance of strong safeguarding practice when working with young people with disabilities or additional needs.

If you have any questions or concerns, make contact with the Safeguarding team:

Safeguarding Tel: 0208 433 7164

Safeguarding Email: safeguarding@scouts.org.uk

Emergency Out-Of-Hours Tel: 07977539630