Safeguarding Policy – Lothian Handyman

Last updated: [insert date]

Lothian Handyman is committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all our customers, staff, and contractors. This policy sets out how we safeguard vulnerable people and maintain safe working practices.

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to:

  • Protect customers who may be vulnerable due to age, disability, illness, or personal circumstances.

  • Protect our staff and contractors by ensuring safe and transparent working arrangements.

  • Provide clear procedures to minimise risks for everyone involved.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

  • All staff, contractors, and volunteers working on behalf of Lothian Handyman.

  • All customers, with particular attention to those considered vulnerable.

3. Principles

  • We treat all customers with dignity, respect, and fairness.

  • We work in a way that protects vulnerable people from harm, abuse, or exploitation.

  • We maintain professional boundaries at all times.

  • We recognise our duty to report concerns if we believe a customer is at risk of harm.

4. Working with Vulnerable Customers

  • When working in the homes of vulnerable people (e.g., elderly, disabled, or otherwise at risk), two members of staff will attend wherever possible.

  • Staff will always carry identification and introduce themselves clearly.

  • Customers will be treated respectfully, and communication will be adapted to suit their needs.

  • Where appropriate, family members, carers, or support workers may be present during visits.

5. Staff Conduct

  • Staff must not accept gifts or money from vulnerable customers beyond the agreed payment for services.

  • Staff must not disclose personal contact details; all communication should go through official business channels.

  • Staff must report any safeguarding concerns immediately to the business owner/manager.

6. Reporting Concerns

  • If staff believe a vulnerable customer is being abused, neglected, or exploited, they must report this to the Safeguarding Lead (business owner/manager).

  • Where necessary, concerns may be referred to local safeguarding boards, social services, or the police.

  • All reports will be handled sensitively and in confidence, following GDPR requirements.

7. Training & Awareness

  • All staff will be briefed on this policy during induction.

  • Refresher training on safeguarding and professional conduct will be provided annually.

8. Monitoring & Review

  • This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if there are changes in legislation or business operations.

  • Feedback from customers and staff will be used to strengthen safeguarding measures.

9. Safeguarding Lead Contact

Safeguarding Lead: [Your Name / Business Owner]
📧 [Insert email]
📞 [Insert phone number]