Safeguarding policy
As an HCPC registered Art Therapist, I am committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all clients—children, young people, and adults—who engage in therapy with me. I believe that all clients have the right to feel safe, be treated with respect, and be protected from harm, abuse, and exploitation, regardless of age, gender, race, religion, disability, or sexual orientation.
Legal framework
This policy is guided by relevant UK legislation and professional standards, including:
- Children Act 1989 & 2004
- Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018)
- The Care Act 2014 (adults)
- Keeping Children Safe in Education (2023)
- The Mental Capacity Act 2005
- HCPC Standards of Conduct, Performance and Ethics
- BAAT Code of Ethics and Principles of Professional Practice - GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018
Definitions
Safeguarding means protecting a person’s right to live in safety, free from abuse and neglect.
Abuse includes: physical, emotional, sexual, financial, neglect, domestic abuse, discriminatory abuse, organisational abuse, and self-neglect.
Children are persons under 18. Adults at risk are those aged 18+ who need community care services and are unable to protect themselves.
Roles and responsibilities, supervision and training
As a sole practitioner, I act as the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL). I am responsible for identifying, recording, and reporting safeguarding concerns. I complete regular safeguarding training and discuss concerns in clinical supervision. I am registered with thirtyone:eight, a safeguarding organisation that provides training and resources to support organisations.
Recognising and responding to concerns
Concerns may arise through disclosures, observations, or other professional contact. Issues may include abuse, neglect, radicalisation, coercive control, or significant self-harm.
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I will:
- Listen without judgment or leading questions
- Reassure the client appropriately
- Record the concern factually
- Share information with appropriate services if there is risk of harm
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In emergencies, I will contact emergency services or the Local Authority Safeguarding Team. I will explain when and why information must be shared.
Working with other agencies
With appropriate consent, I may work with other professionals such as GPs, schools, social workers, or mental health services. In safeguarding situations, I may contact statutory agencies directly.
Record keeping
Confidentiality is upheld in line with GDPR and HCPC standards. Information is shared on a need-to-know basis to prevent serious harm. Wherever possible, I seek consent before sharing information.
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All safeguarding records are kept securely and separately from general clinical notes. I retain records in line with legal and professional guidance:
- For adults: 8 years after the conclusion of therapy or the client’s death
- For children: Until the client’s 25th birthday (or 26th if they were 17 when therapy ended)
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Artworks are considered confidential material and are stored safely during therapy. After therapy ends, artworks may be returned to the client or securely destroyed, in line with BAAT guidelines.
Safer practice
I maintain a safe therapeutic environment by:
- Holding an enhanced DBS certificate
- Having professional indemnity insurance
- Using clear contracts and consent processes
- Setting and maintaining professional boundaries - Conducting appropriate risk assessments
Policy last updated: 26th May 2025