1. Inroduction

Wyvern Fitness Ltd is committed to creating a safe and supportive environment for all members, staff, and visitors. This safeguarding policy outlines our approach to protecting vulnerable individuals from harm and ensuring the wellbeing of everyone using our services.

2. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to:

• Ensure that all individuals, particularly vulnerable groups, are protected from any form of abuse, neglect, or harm within the gym.

• Establish clear guidelines for staff, members, and visitors regarding safeguarding.

• Promote a culture of respect, responsibility, and care throughout Wyvern Fitness Ltd.

3. Scope

This policy applies to all employees, contractors, volunteers, and gym members. It includes all activities carried out at Wyvern Fitness Ltd, including fitness classes, personal training sessions, and other events organized by the gym.

4. Safeguarding Objectives

• Protect children, young people, and vulnerable adults from harm.

• Ensure that all staff and volunteers are adequately trained and aware of their safeguarding responsibilities.

• Establish clear reporting procedures for safeguarding concerns.

• Create an environment where all individuals are treated with dignity and respect.

5. Key Safeguarding Principles

We are committed to the following safeguarding principles:

• Prevention: We will take all necessary steps to minimize the risk of harm by providing a safe environment, training staff, and regularly reviewing our policies and practices.

• Awareness: We will ensure that everyone working or attending Wyvern Fitness Ltd is aware of safeguarding issues and knows how to respond to concerns.

• Empowerment: We will encourage a culture of open communication where individuals feel comfortable reporting concerns without fear of retaliation.

• Accountability: All staff and volunteers will be held accountable for adhering to safeguarding policies and procedures.

6. Types of Abuse

We are committed to safeguarding individuals from various forms of abuse, including but not limited to:

• Physical Abuse: Any form of physical harm or violence.

• Emotional Abuse: Harm to an individual's emotional health, including verbal abuse, threats, or manipulation.

• Sexual Abuse: Any form of sexual harassment, exploitation, or inappropriate behavior.

• Neglect: Failing to provide appropriate care, support, or supervision for vulnerable individuals.

• Financial Abuse: Misuse or exploitation of an individual's financial resources.

7. Roles and Responsibilities

• Gym Management: The gym management team is responsible for ensuring the safeguarding policy is implemented, reviewed regularly, and that all staff receive appropriate training.

• Staff and Volunteers: All staff and volunteers have a duty to act in the best interests of those using our services, report concerns, and adhere to safeguarding guidelines.

• Gym Members: Members are expected to behave in a manner that respects the safety and wellbeing of others, reporting any safeguarding concerns they may observe.

8. Reporting Concerns

If anyone suspects that an individual is at risk of harm, they must immediately report the concern to a senior staff member or the designated safeguarding lead (DSL Margaret Oram). The gym’s safeguarding reporting procedure is as follows:

1. Immediate Action: If there is an immediate risk of harm, contact emergency services right away.

2. Internal Reporting: If there is no immediate risk, staff should report the concern to the DSL, who will assess the situation.

3. Record Keeping: All concerns must be documented, including dates, times, and any actions taken. Confidentiality should be maintained.

4. Referral: If necessary, the DSL will refer the case to appropriate external authorities (e.g., social services, police).

9. Recruitment and Training

• All staff will adhere to our safeguarding policy 

10. Use of the Gym by Children and Vulnerable Adults

• Children and Young People: Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult or have parental consent to use Wyvern Fitness Ltd. The gym offers programs and services specifically tailored for young people, and these must be supervised by qualified trainers.

• Vulnerable Adults: Vulnerable adults should be accompanied by a responsible adult or guardian if necessary. We will provide additional support where required to ensure their safety and wellbeing.

11. Confidentiality and Information Sharing

All safeguarding concerns should be handled confidentially, with information shared only on a need-to-know basis. Personal information regarding individuals should not be disclosed unless necessary to protect their safety or as required by law.

12. Review of the Policy

This safeguarding policy will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains effective and in line with best practices. Any changes to the policy will be communicated to staff and members.