Safeguarding Policy
The Dental Practice, Anytown
Purpose:
The Dental Practice is committed to ensuring the welfare and safety of all children, young people, and vulnerable adults that we serve. We believe that every patient has the right to be protected from harm and exploitation. The purpose of this policy is to provide a framework to ensure our commitment to safeguarding is put into practice.
Policy:
- Recognising Abuse: All staff at The Dental Practice will be trained to identify potential signs of abuse or neglect in children and vulnerable adults. This includes but is not limited to, physical, emotional, or sexual abuse and neglect.
- Reporting Procedures: If a member of staff suspects abuse or neglect, they must report it immediately to the designated Safeguarding Officer. All suspicions and investigations will be kept confidential, shared only with those who need to know.
- Designated Safeguarding Officer: The Practice will appoint a Safeguarding Officer, who is responsible for handling all concerns about the welfare of a child or vulnerable adult.
- Training: All staff, including temporary and volunteer staff, will undergo safeguarding training, and will receive regular updates to ensure their knowledge is current and accurate.
- Working with Authorities: The Dental Practice will work closely with local authority children's social care, the Care Quality Commission (CQC), and other relevant agencies in any investigations.
- Record Keeping: Accurate and secure records of any safeguarding concerns and actions taken will be maintained, in accordance with GDPR regulations.
Review:
This policy will be reviewed annually and updated as required to incorporate changes in legislation or best practice.
Approval:
This Safeguarding Policy has been approved and endorsed by senior management at The Dental Practice.
Date:
Policy implemented on: [Insert Date]
Next Review due: [Insert Date (One year from implementation)]