ASPE is committed to protecting children and adults at risk in all activities, events, research, publications, partnerships and online forums. This page summarises ASPE’s safeguarding principles, key responsibilities, reporting routes and practical steps to keep people safe. It complements other ASPE policies such as our Safeguarding Policy, Complaints Policy and Whistleblowing Policy and should be read alongside full organisational safeguarding documentation. ASPE’s safeguarding approach is founded on respect for the dignity of every person and the right to live free from abuse, neglect and exploitation. This policy applies to all trustees, volunteers, consultants, contractors, speakers, researchers, students, members and anyone acting on behalf of ASPE. It covers concerns relating to children (under18) and adults at risk.
Roles and Key Contacts
Safeguarding Lead: Dr. Matthew Williamson-Dicken
Deputy Safeguarding Lead: Mr. Keith Wysner
Reserve Member for Safeguarding: Mrs. Jill Adams
Reporting email: [email protected]
Managing Allegations Against People Who Work with ASPE
Allegations about trustees, volunteers, consultants, contractors or members must be reported immediately to the Safeguarding Lead. Allegations indicating harm or risk to a child or adult at risk will be managed in accordance with statutory guidance and local arrangements. Interim measures (suspension, reassignment or removal from duties) will be precautionary, proportionate and regularly reviewed. Where criminal behaviour is suspected, the police will be informed and ASPE will follow statutory advice on internal actions. External investigators may be commissioned where impartiality or specialist expertise is required.
Record Keeping, Confidentiality and Information Sharing
Accurate, contemporaneous records of concerns, disclosures, decisions, referrals and actions will be kept securely and retained in line with data protection legislation. Information will be shared lawfully and proportionately with statutory agencies, partner organisations and, where appropriate, family members. Consent for sharing will be sought where appropriate and safe, but ASPE will not withhold information necessary to protect a person at risk or to comply with statutory duties.
Whistleblowing
ASPE encourages raising concerns about safeguarding practice or organisational culture. The Whistleblowing Policy provides a confidential route where internal reporting appears ineffective or where concerns involve leadership. Individuals raising concerns in good faith will be protected from retaliation and their reports will be investigated appropriately.
Support for Survivors, Witnesses and Those Involved in Investigations
Where concerns are substantiated or investigations cause distress, ASPE will seek to provide appropriate support including access to counselling, signposting to specialist services, reasonable adjustments to work or participation, and clear communication about processes and timescales. ASPE recognises the emotional impact on whistleblowers, witnesses, alleged victims and others and will handle cases with sensitivity while meeting safeguarding obligations.
How to Report a Concern
Email: [email protected]
If immediate danger or a serious crime: contact the police immediately.
When reporting, provide as much factual information as possible: what was observed or said, dates, times, who was present and any immediate actions taken.
For more information, visit our policies page.