Policy Statement

Start2Study is committed to safeguarding the welfare of all individuals who engage with our services, especially vulnerable adults and young people seeking access to education. We recognise our duty to promote a safe, supportive environment where clients are treated with respect, protected from harm, and empowered to take positive steps toward their future.

1.  Scope

This policy applies to:

  • All Start2Study staff, consultants, volunteers, and representatives

  • All individuals using our services, including UK residents, international students, and those referred by partner agencies

  • All online and offline interactions related to the recruitment and enrolment process

2. Our Safeguarding Commitment

Start2Study will:

  • Promote the safety and wellbeing of all individuals

  • Recognise and respond to signs of abuse, neglect, or exploitation

  • Ensure all staff are aware of their safeguarding responsibilities

  • Work with external agencies if a safeguarding concern is identified

  • Treat all concerns seriously and respond promptly and appropriately

  • Respect confidentiality while prioritising safety

  • Maintain records of safeguarding concerns securely

3.  Who We Safeguard

This policy covers anyone who may be at risk of harm while engaging with our services, including:

  • Young adults aged 18–25

  • Care leavers

  • Refugees or asylum seekers

  • Individuals with disabilities or mental health needs

  • People with a history of trauma, substance misuse, or criminal justice involvement

  • Any client who may lack confidence, stability, or access to support networks

4. Recognising Safeguarding Concerns

Staff and representatives should be alert to:

  • Signs of distress, withdrawal, or confusion

  • Reports or signs of domestic abuse, coercion, or neglect

  • Disclosures of exploitation, trafficking, or financial control

  • Concerns raised by partner agencies or family members

  • Situations where a student is unable to understand or engage safely

5. Reporting a Safeguarding Concern

If a staff member has a safeguarding concern, they must:

1. Report it immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

2. Record relevant details factually and clearly

3. Avoid making promises of confidentiality

4. Only share information with relevant safeguarding authorities

6. Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

Name: Matthew Brooks
Email: info@mjbrooks.com
Phone: 07306750706

The DSL is responsible for coordinating safeguarding procedures, liaising with external services, and ensuring policy updates and staff awareness.

7. Confidentiality & Data Protection

All safeguarding records are treated confidentially and stored securely in line with UK GDPR. We only share information when it is necessary to protect an individual from harm or when legally required.

8. Training & Awareness

All staff and representatives will receive:

  • Basic safeguarding awareness training

  • Information on how to respond to disclosures

  • Guidance on maintaining professional boundaries and referrals

9. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or following any major safeguarding incident or regulatory update.

Last reviewed: 02/06/2025
Next review due: 02/06/2026

📝 Contact for Safeguarding Concerns

📧 Email: free@start2study.org

📞 Phone: 07306750706

For urgent concerns, call 999 or your local authority safeguarding team.