Safeguarding Policy

Summary

Safeguarding means protecting people from harm, abuse, exploitation, and unsafe behaviour. Inclusive Driving is committed to keeping all learners safe, including 17‑year‑olds and adults who may be more vulnerable due to disability, illness, or personal circumstances.

What I Do to Keep Learners Safe

  • Put the safety and well-being of every learner first.
  • Maintain clear, professional boundaries at all times.
  • Treat all learners with dignity, respect, and fairness.
  • Use dashcams (video and audio) for safety and safeguarding.
  • Keep communication professional and lesson‑focused.
  • Avoid physical contact except where necessary for safety (e.g., seatbelt assistance with clear consent).
  • Choose safe, appropriate lesson locations.

Learners Under 18

  • Lessons take place only in appropriate public locations.
  • I do not enter learners’ homes.
  • No private social media contact.
  • No transport except for lesson‑related purposes.

Adults at Risk

Some adults may be more vulnerable due to disability, mental‑health needs, illness, or coercive relationships. I will:

  • Make reasonable adjustments where possible.
  • Respect independence and dignity.
  • Be alert to signs of exploitation, control, or abuse.

Recognising Safeguarding Concerns

I remain alert to signs of:

  • Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse
  • Neglect
  • Grooming or exploitation
  • Coercive or controlling behaviour
  • Harassment or inappropriate comments
  • A learner being pressured by someone else

If something feels unsafe, I treat it seriously.

If I Am Concerned About a Learner

I may:

  • Pause or end the lesson
  • Ensure immediate safety
  • Record factual notes
  • Seek advice from safeguarding professionals
  • Report concerns to the appropriate authority (police, Children’s Services, Adult Safeguarding teams, or DVSA)

I will never ignore a safeguarding concern.

If a Learner Tells Me Something Worrying

I will:

  • Listen calmly
  • Not judge or make assumptions
  • Explain if I need to share the information
  • Record what was said factually
  • Report it if someone is at risk

I cannot promise confidentiality if someone is in danger.

Allegations Against the Instructor

Any allegation is taken seriously. I will:

  • Stop lessons if appropriate
  • Record the allegation factually
  • Cooperate fully with investigations
  • Provide dashcam footage if required

Learners can raise concerns with me, the DVSA, safeguarding services, or the police.

Reviewing This Policy

This safeguarding policy is reviewed every year, or sooner if guidance or legislation changes.