Safeguarding

The Guild of Musicians and Singers' Safeguarding Policy for Working with Vulnerable Adults

SAFEGUARDING ADVISER  : REBECCA KILPATRICK
SAFEGUARDING OFFICERS: Sara Aliano HonGMS and The Reverend Katherine Ward FGMS

The Guild of Musicians and Singers is committed to creating a safe and supportive environment for all individuals, including vulnerable adults, who participate in our activities or receive services from our members. As such, we have developed the following safeguard policy to ensure the well-being and protection of vulnerable adults. 

1. Definition of Vulnerable Adults:

Vulnerable adults are those who may be at risk of harm or exploitation due to age, disability, illness, or any other factor that may impair their ability to protect themselves from harm. 

2. Responsibility of Members:

All members of the Guild of Musicians and Singers have a responsibility to safeguard vulnerable adults with whom they may come into contact during their meetings and activities. This includes being vigilant for signs of abuse, exploitation, or neglect, and taking appropriate action to address any concerns. 

3. Code of Conduct:

Members are expected to adhere to a code of conduct when working with vulnerable adults. This includes treating all individuals with respect and dignity, maintaining appropriate boundaries, and refraining from any behaviour or language that could be perceived as abusive. 

4. Training and Education:

The Guild of Musicians and Singers provides training and education to its board of trustees and committee/council members and provides opportunity for its members to attend training on how to recognise and respond to signs of abuse or neglect in vulnerable adults. Members are required to participate in this training on a regular basis to ensure they are equipped to fulfil their safeguarding responsibilities.

5. Reporting Procedures:

Members who have concerns about the safety or well-being of a vulnerable adult must report these concerns to the designated safeguarding officer, Sara Aliano. of The Guild of Musicians and Singers. The safeguarding officer will then take appropriate action, which may include contacting relevant authorities or providing support to the individual. 

6. Confidentiality:

All reports of safeguarding concerns will be treated with the utmost confidentiality, and information will only be shared on a need-to-know basis in order to protect the vulnerable adult.

7. Support and Resources:

The Guild of Musicians and Singers is committed to providing support and resources to both members and vulnerable adults who may be affected by safeguarding concerns. 

8. Review and Monitoring:

This safeguard policy will be regularly reviewed and updated to ensure it remains effective and compliant with relevant laws and regulations. The Guild of Musicians and singers will also monitor its implementation to identify any areas for improvement.

By adhering to this safeguard policy, members of The Guild of Musicians and Singers demonstrate their commitment to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all individuals, especially vulnerable adults. 

Together, we can ensure that music remains a source of joy and enrichment for everyone involved.