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Safeguarding
Safeguarding
We believe that all learners have the right to feel safe.
At On Course South West (OCSW) we believe that all learners have the right to feel safe while taking part in their studies.
OCSW is committed to promoting equality, diversity and an inclusive and supportive environment for its learners and affirms the rights of individuals to be treated fairly and with respect.
Our Commitment to Safeguarding
On Course South West is dedicated to creating a safe and respectful environment. Our goals are divided into four key areas:
1. Support and Awareness
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For Learners: We provide clear information to help adults understand different types of abuse, stay safe, and know exactly how to raise a concern.
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For the Community: We work to raise public awareness so that everyone—not just professionals—can help identify and prevent neglect, radicalization, extremism, and FGM.
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For Staff: We ensure all staff are aware of their duty to identify and report potential cases of abuse or extremism.
2. Creating a Safe Environment
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Culture of Safety: We maintain a space where all learners feel valued, respected, and confident enough to ask for help.
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Strict Vetting: Every adult working within the service who has access to learners—including community users of our facilities—undergoes thorough suitability checks.
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Visible Support: Safeguarding and Prevent policies are made accessible to everyone. Up-to-date photos and names of Safeguarding Leads are clearly displayed in receptions, classrooms, and common areas.
3. Procedures and Monitoring
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Structured Reporting: We use standardized procedures for all partners to follow when abuse or radicalization is suspected.
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Ongoing Monitoring: We systematically track and support learners known to be at risk, contributing to their individual care and support plans.
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Staff Communication: We prioritize effective communication between staff members to ensure no safeguarding concern is missed.
4. Governance and Legal Duties
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Mandatory Training: 100% of staff, committee members, and volunteers must complete mandatory safeguarding training as required by their contracts.
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Policy Management: Plymouth City Council is responsible for ensuring that all Safeguarding and Prevent policies are updated, implemented, and monitored regularly.
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External Reporting: If an investigation by the police or local authority occurs involving funded learners, the Council must immediately notify the Department for Education (DfE) and, where necessary, the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
Safeguarding
Safeguarding concerns
If you have any safeguarding concerns please contact:
Sarah Pink - Designated Safeguarding Lead
01752 398325
Lisa Grant - Safeguarding Officer
01752 312516
Claire Stevens - Safeguarding Officer
01752 312567
