Safeguarding Statement

Apply UK is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Safeguarding is a shared responsibility, and the wellbeing of students is a priority in all interactions and guidance provided.

Apply UK works with students and families in a way that is respectful, transparent, and appropriate, and aims to create a safe and supportive environment for all students.

Safeguarding Policy

Purpose

This policy outlines how Apply UK approaches safeguarding when working with children and young people, including those under the age of 18.

Apply UK provides advisory and guidance-based support to students and families and does not act in a pastoral, supervisory, or custodial role.

Scope

This policy applies to all work undertaken by Apply UK, all interactions with students under the age of 18, whether conducted online or in person, and communications with parents, guardians, and schools where relevant.

Approach to safeguarding

Apply UK will act in the best interests of the student at all times, maintain professional boundaries in all interactions, communicate in an age-appropriate and respectful manner, encourage the involvement of parents or guardians where appropriate, and keep records of relevant communications where safeguarding considerations arise.

Communication and contact

Sessions with students under the age of 18 will normally take place with the knowledge and consent of a parent or guardian. Communication will be conducted through appropriate channels and at appropriate times. One-to-one work is focused on educational guidance and does not replace parental or school-based support.

Recognising and responding to concerns

Apply UK does not investigate safeguarding concerns but will take any concern seriously, encourage students or families to seek appropriate support, and signpost to schools, local services, or appropriate authorities where necessary.

If there is concern that a child or young person may be at risk of harm, Apply UK will prioritise the student’s safety and act responsibly, including escalating concerns where appropriate.

Confidentiality

Information shared by students is treated with care and confidentiality. However, confidentiality may be breached if there is a concern that a student or others may be at risk of harm.

Safeguarding awareness and training

Apply UK maintains an appropriate level of safeguarding awareness in line with the nature of its work as an independent advisory service.

The founder has completed a basic UK Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and NSPCC Introduction to Safeguarding and Child Protection certified training.

Safeguarding knowledge and practice are kept under review to ensure they remain appropriate and proportionate.

Review

This safeguarding policy is reviewed periodically to ensure it remains appropriate to the scope and nature of Apply UK’s work.