This page was created for safeguarding resources and information related to the coronavirus outbreak.
We know that it is really important that volunteers and staff are kept safe during this time and so we have produced documents and videos to help you with this.
On this page:
- Coronavirus Community Response document
- A brief Introduction to Safeguarding
- Domestic Abuse
- Children’s social care – response to COVID-19
- Risk Assessment: For new community groups
- Volunteer payment options to support vulnerable people during the Covid-19 outbreak
- DBS Factsheet
- Safeguarding Queries and Support
Coronavirus Community Response document
We have put together this ‘Coronavirus Community Response’ document. It outlines a few things to consider when setting up or running Informal community groups responding to the coronavirus; plus the policy and protection procedures to put in place and some helpful templates to use. We also now have a version translated into Spanish. Please share it widely.
A brief introduction to Safeguarding
We all have a responsibility to keep those around us safe from abuse and harm and to create an environment where everyone is respected and valued. We’ve produced this short video below: ‘A brief Introduction to Safeguarding‘ to take you through the things you need to think about to keep your staff and volunteers safe:
Safeguarding is everyone’s business – spotting the signs
Safeguarding is everyone’s business and we all have a responsibility to protect vulnerable individuals from harm and abuse – now more than ever. Please see the government guidance ‘Safeguarding is everyone’s business’ for an accessible summary on what signs to look out for.
Domestic Abuse
Since lockdown, the levels of domestic abuse have increased significantly. We have all of the latest developments around support for organisations, victims and perpetrators here
Children’s social care – response to COVID-19
Southwark Council have put together this: ‘Children and Families, Social Work, Youth Offending Service, Family Early Help Covid-19‘ response document.
Risk Assessment: for new community groups
A number of new groups have been set up during the Covid-19 outbreak, it’s important that these groups think about the actvities they are running and the risks that are involved. We’ve created this short video which looks at: understanding what risk is, how to write a simple risk assessment and how to put control measures in place and monitor risks:
Volunteer payment options to support vulnerable people during the Covid-19 outbreak
We know that issues will arise during this period when volunteers may be asked to shop to source food and other essential items for a vulnerable person. Here is some guidance on how to manage those payments.
DBS Factsheet
Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) – This factsheet explains what a DBS check is and what it means to your organisation.
Safeguarding Queries and Support
If you have any queries, or would like some safeguarding advice or support, please contact our Safeguarding team at info@communitysouthwark.org.
