1. Policy Statement
Bash EcoCleaners Service Ltd is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. We recognise that our cleaning operatives may work in environments where vulnerable individuals are present, including schools, care homes, sheltered housing, community centres, and residential properties.
This policy applies to all employees, contractors, franchise partners, volunteers, and anyone working on behalf of the Company.
2. Our Responsibilities
We will:
- Ensure all staff working in regulated environments hold an enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check
- Provide safeguarding awareness training to all employees as part of their induction
- Appoint a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) to oversee safeguarding matters
- Create a culture where staff feel confident to report concerns without fear of reprisal
- Cooperate fully with local authority safeguarding teams and law enforcement agencies
- Review this policy annually and update it in response to legislative changes or incidents
3. Recruitment & Vetting
All recruitment follows safer recruitment practices:
- Enhanced DBS checks for all staff working in regulated activity
- Right to work verification and identity checks
- Two satisfactory references, including the most recent employer
- Verification of qualifications and training certificates
- Probationary periods with regular supervision
For further details, see our DBS & Vetting Policy.
4. Recognising Signs of Abuse
Staff are trained to recognise the signs and indicators of abuse, which may include:
- Physical abuse: Unexplained injuries, bruising, burns, or marks
- Emotional abuse: Withdrawal, fearfulness, sudden changes in behaviour
- Neglect: Poor hygiene, malnutrition, inadequate clothing, unsafe living conditions
- Sexual abuse: Inappropriate sexual behaviour, fearfulness around certain individuals
- Financial abuse: Unexplained loss of money, sudden changes in financial circumstances (particularly in vulnerable adults)
- Self-neglect: Hoarding, refusal of services, poor personal hygiene in adults
5. Reporting Concerns
If any member of staff has a safeguarding concern, they must:
- Step 1: Make a written note of what they have observed or been told, including dates, times, and any witnesses. Do not investigate.
- Step 2: Report the concern immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Lead.
- Step 3: The DSL will assess the concern and, where appropriate, make a referral to the local authority safeguarding team, the police, or other relevant agency.
In an emergency where a child or vulnerable adult is in immediate danger, staff should call 999 without delay.
6. Confidentiality
All safeguarding concerns are handled confidentially. Information is shared only on a need-to-know basis with relevant authorities and professionals involved in protecting the individual. Personal data is handled in accordance with our Privacy Policy and Data Protection Policy.
7. Code of Conduct
All staff must:
- Maintain professional boundaries at all times
- Never be alone in a closed room with a child or vulnerable adult unless essential for work
- Not use personal devices to photograph or record in client premises
- Report any gifts, favours, or unusual requests from clients or their dependants
- Challenge or report any behaviour by colleagues that causes concern
8. Training
All staff receive safeguarding awareness training during induction. Refresher training is provided annually. Staff working in high-risk environments (schools, care homes) receive enhanced safeguarding training appropriate to their role.
9. Contact
If you believe a child or vulnerable adult is in immediate danger, call 999.
You can also contact your local authority safeguarding team directly.
Last updated: April 2026