Adult Safeguarding Policy

Updated August 2026

Introduction

Friends of the Ullswater Way (“FOUW”, “we”, “us”) is committed to the safety, dignity and wellbeing of adults who engage with our community activities, events, projects and talks.

For the purposes of this policy, a vulnerable adult (or adult at risk) is anyone aged 18 or over who, due to illness, disability, mental health, age, or social or economic circumstances, may be unable to safeguard their own wellbeing. Vulnerability may be temporary, situational, or not immediately visible.

This policy applies to all trustees, volunteers and representatives acting on behalf of FOUW.

1. Our Commitment

FOUW will:

provide a safe and welcoming environment for all adults
take all safeguarding concerns seriously and act promptly
respect each person’s rights, dignity and independence
ensure personal data is stored and used in line with our Privacy Policy
ensure volunteers and trustees understand their responsibilities, boundaries and appropriate conduct.

2. Types of Abuse

Abuse may include, but is not limited to:

physical, emotional or sexual abuse
neglect or self-neglect
Financial or material exploitation
discriminatory abuse
domestic abuse
organisational or institutional abuse.

3. Volunteer Conduct

Because vulnerability is not always disclosed or visible, volunteers must follow safe-working principles with all adults.

Volunteers must:

treat all participants with dignity and respect
Avoid unnecessary physical contact unless required for safety
avoid being alone with any participant where possible, as a general safeguarding measure
not enter into personal, financial or private arrangements with participants
maintain appropriate professional boundaries
raise concerns promptly if they believe someone may be at risk.

If a participant requires one-to-one support, this should be discussed in advance with the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) so a suitable plan can be put in place.

4. Responding to Concerns

If a volunteer or trustee is concerned that an adult may be at risk:

ensure the person is safe
report concerns immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) immediately
record the concern factually and confidentially using the Safeguarding Concern Form where available
do not investigate, ask leading questions, or attempt to resolve the situation yourself
do not promise confidentiality — safeguarding concerns must be shared appropriately.

If someone is in immediate danger, call 999.

5. Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

Designated Safeguarding Lead:
Paddy Palmer, Trustee
Email: info@friendsoftheullswaterway.org

The DSL is responsible for reviewing concerns and contacting statutory services when required, including the:

Cumbria Safeguarding Adults Board
https://www.cumbriasab.org.uk

6. Reporting to Local Authorities

If abuse is suspected, the DSL will contact the Local Authority Adult Social Care team.
If a crime may have been committed, the police will be notified.

7. Recording & Confidentiality

All safeguarding notes will be stored securely, and access restricted to the DSL and Chair.
Records will be retained for a minimum of six years, or longer if legally required (consistent with the Privacy Policy).
Information will be shared only on a strict need-to-know basis.

8. Support for Individuals