Safeguarding Procedures
How we report, respond to, and manage safeguarding concerns at Middle World Farms
Middle World Farms is dedicated to ensuring the safety of all individuals — especially children, young adults, and vulnerable people — who take part in our programmes. These procedures provide clear guidance on how to raise a concern, how we will respond, and how we protect confidentiality throughout.
⚠ If someone is in immediate danger, call 999 first. Then contact the DSL.
1. Reporting a concern
Recognise and respond: If you notice signs of abuse, neglect, or distress — or if someone discloses a concern — take it seriously and stay calm. Do not promise confidentiality.
Report to the DSL immediately: Contact Martin Robert Taylor in person, by phone (01522 449610), or by email (safeguarding@middleworldfarms.org). If Martin is unavailable, contact a senior member of the team.
Record the concern: Write a factual account of what you observed or what was disclosed — including names, dates, times, and a description of the concern. Use the online safeguarding reporting form where possible.
Act without delay: Reporting must not be deferred. The safety of the individual is the priority.
2. How we respond
Initial assessment by DSL: Martin will assess the concern immediately, considering severity, urgency, and immediate safety risks. He may seek clarifying information from the person who raised the concern.
Referral to external agencies: If necessary, Martin will refer the concern to local social services, child protection services, or law enforcement. Middle World Farms will cooperate fully with any resulting investigation.
Support for those affected: The DSL will ensure the individual(s) affected receive appropriate support, which may include access to counselling or external resources.
Internal follow-up: All actions and decisions will be documented securely. This documentation forms part of our safeguarding records.
3. Confidentiality
Need-to-know basis: Safeguarding information is shared only with those directly involved in responding to or managing the concern (e.g. DSL, Deputy DSL, or external agencies).
Secure records: All safeguarding records are stored securely with access restricted to authorised personnel.
Respect for privacy: Staff and volunteers must not discuss safeguarding matters in public or with unauthorised individuals.
Legal disclosure: Where information is lawfully requested by a relevant authority, Middle World Farms will comply while continuing to prioritise individual welfare.
Summary of responsibilities
All staff and volunteers: Report concerns to the DSL promptly. Respect confidentiality. Do not investigate independently.
DSL (Martin Robert Taylor): Assess concerns, take necessary action including external referrals, maintain confidential records.
All individuals on-site: Do not discuss safeguarding matters outside appropriate channels. Maintain a respectful approach at all times.