1. Purpose

This policy outlines the safeguarding principles and procedures for the Share with Clare Circle Sharing Group to ensure a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all participants.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all facilitators, participants, volunteers, and guests involved in the Share with Clare Circle Sharing Group, whether sessions are held in person or online.

3. Principles

• Safety First: Emotional, psychological, and physical safety are paramount.
• Confidentiality: What is shared in the Share with Clare circle stays in the Share with Clare circle, unless there is a risk of harm.
• Respect: All voices are valued. Listening is as important as speaking.
• Consent: Participation is always voluntary. No one is required to share.
• Non-Judgment: The Share with Clare circle is a space free from judgment, advice-giving, or criticism.

4. Roles and Responsibilities

Facilitator:

• Ensure the group adheres to this policy.
• Create and maintain a safe and inclusive space.
• Respond appropriately to safeguarding concerns.

Participants:

• Respect the group agreements.
• Report any concerns to the facilitator (Clare Tindall).

5. Code of Conduct

• Arrive on time and stay present.
• Speak from personal experience (“I” statements).
• Avoid interrupting or cross-talking.
• No recording or sharing of content without explicit consent.
• Discriminatory, abusive, or harmful behavior will not be tolerated.

6. Confidentiality and Disclosure

Confidentiality is respected unless:

• A participant discloses intent to harm themselves or others.
• There is a disclosure of abuse or neglect.

In such cases, the facilitator (Clare Tindall) will follow safeguarding procedures and may need to contact appropriate services.

7. Responding to Safeguarding Concerns

• Listen without judgment.
• Reassure the person that they are being heard.
• Record the concern factually and clearly.
• Report to the designated safeguarding lead or relevant authority.

8. Safeguarding Lead

Name: Clare Tindall

Contact: 07944035242

Role: To oversee safeguarding practices and respond to concerns.

9. Review and Updates

This policy will be reviewed annually or after any safeguarding incident. Feedback from participants is welcomed to improve safeguarding practices. 

Dated 27/07/2025 

Review due 27/07/2026