Decision details

Adoption of a new Safeguarding Policy.

a) That Cabinet adopts the joint SELCP Safeguarding Policy.

b) That Cabinet delegates authority to the Assistant Director – Communities and Housing Services in consultation with the Portfolio Holder to make minor amendments to the policy, ensuring it remains up to date with legislative changes and operational requirements.

c) That the Assistant Director – Communities and Housing Services undertakes a full review of the policy every four years, with any proposed revisions presented to Cabinet for approval to maintain strategic oversight and governance.

Under the Children Act 1989 and the Care Act 2014, all local authorities are legally required to have safeguarding measures in place, helping to protect children and vulnerable adults from abuse, neglect and exploitation.

Prior to the three councils moving to the South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership (SELCP), each council had their own safeguarding policy. Following the move to a single workforce, including having a single Strategic Safeguarding Officer for the Partnership, a single policy will ensure a standardised approach to safeguarding exists across the councils and its functions.

An updated single policy for each council was considered but discounted due to the possible confusion this may cause. Especially when considering the fundamental requirements of the Children Act 1989 and the Care Act 2014 are the same for all three councils.