Introduction

IP Express Cabs is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for all individuals using our services, including passengers, drivers, and staff. We recognise our responsibility to safeguard the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults and ensure their safety and protection from harm, abuse, and neglect.

1. Scope

This policy applies to all IP Express Cabs employees, drivers, contractors, and anyone working on behalf of IP Express Cabs. It aims to protect all passengers, particularly children and vulnerable adults, from abuse and promote their wellbeing while using our services.

2. Definitions

• Safeguarding: The process of protecting individuals, especially children, young people, and vulnerable adults, from abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

• Vulnerable Adult: A person aged 18 years or over who may need community care services due to a disability, age, or illness, and who may be unable to protect themselves against harm or exploitation.

• Child: Anyone under the age of 18.

3. Commitment to Safeguarding

3.1 IP Express Cabs is dedicated to ensuring:

• The safety and wellbeing of all passengers, particularly children and vulnerable adults.

• A culture of zero tolerance towards any form of abuse or neglect.

• That all staff and drivers understand their responsibilities and know how to act upon concerns or allegations of abuse.

4. Responsibilities

• All Staff and Drivers:

  • Must be vigilant and report any concerns about a passenger’s safety or wellbeing to the appropriate authorities.

  • Must follow the procedures outlined in this policy.

  • Should respect the dignity and privacy of all passengers.

• Management:

  • Must ensure that safeguarding procedures are in place and adhered to.

  • Must provide staff and drivers with appropriate training to recognise signs of abuse or neglect.

  • Must ensure that any allegations or concerns are handled in accordance with this policy and reported to the relevant authorities.

5. Types of Abuse

5.1 Staff and drivers should be aware of the various types of abuse, which may include but are not limited to:

• Physical Abuse: Inflicting physical harm or injury.

• Emotional Abuse: Causing emotional distress or psychological harm.

• Sexual Abuse: Any sexual activity with an individual without consent.

• Neglect: Failing to meet the basic needs of an individual.

• Financial Abuse: Unlawful or improper use of an individual’s funds or assets.

6. Reporting Concerns

6.1 If a driver or member of staff suspects that a child or vulnerable adult is being abused or is at risk, they must:

• Remain calm and provide reassurance to the individual if possible.

• Make an immediate report to the safeguarding officer or the designated point of contact within IP Express Cabs.

• Document the concerns in writing, providing as much detail as possible.

• Not attempt to investigate the matter themselves.

7. Confidentiality

All safeguarding concerns should be treated in the strictest confidence. Information should only be shared with those who need to know in order to protect the individual. Any breach of confidentiality will be taken seriously and may result in disciplinary action.

8. Training and Awareness

All staff and drivers will receive regular safeguarding training to ensure they understand their responsibilities and can recognise signs of abuse or neglect. This training will be updated periodically to reflect changes in legislation and best practices.

9. Review of Policy

This Safeguarding Policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if there are changes to legislation or internal procedures. IP Express Cabs is committed to continuous improvement and will ensure that this policy remains effective and up to date.

10. Contact Us

If you have any questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy or how we handle your personal data, please contact us at: safeguarding@ipexpresscabs.co.uk