Purpose

The
Council’s overarching Safeguarding Policy and the related
Policy for Supporting Residents experiencing domestic abuse were
both extensively re-written in 2022/23. 
Both policies required a refresh in 2025. 
Consequently, the two policies were considered by
representatives of the Council’s Corporate Safeguarding Group
during October/November 2025. Minor amendments were made to both
policies as a result of this work.
In
both policies, out of date information has been
corrected.  For example, updated web
links have been inserted which link to the Council’s
Equalities Statement and to the Complaints Process.  Embedded links in the Safeguarding Policy have
been updated in relation to external training and referral forms
and to provide a link to the Council’s 2025/6 Modern Slavery
Statement.
In
addition, the following changes have been made to the policy for
Supporting residents experiencing domestic abuse: i) reference to
the gendered nature of domestic abuse have been made more explicit,
ii) a clear statement that children are considered to be victims of
domestic abuse where abuse occurs within their family as been added
iii) refence to the Council’s White Ribbon accreditation and
related actions has been included.
The
Lead Cabinet Member for Housing has delegated authority to approve
minor amendments of this nature to both policies.  Copies of the updated policies are attached for
reference.

Content

To
approve minor wording changes to following the policies:
 

Policy
for Safeguarding Children, Young People and Adults at risk of
Harm
Policy
for supporting residents experiencing domestic abuse.

Reasons for the decision

To
ensure accuracy in terms of content, embedded web links and
references to external agencies.

Alternative options considered

Option:
To not refresh the policies.

Reason for rejection: The policies required a refresh in
2025.