Decibels is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of deaf children, young people, and adults at risk. We believe that everyone has the right to live free from abuse, neglect, exploitation, and harm, regardless of age, disability, communication needs, gender, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or background. We are committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where people feel respected, valued, listened to, and able to raise concerns without fear.
Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. All trustees, employees, volunteers, and contractors working on behalf of Decibels are expected to share this commitment, act in accordance with our policies and procedures, and take appropriate action whenever concerns arise.
As a deaf-led organisation, we recognise that deaf people may face additional barriers to communication, access to information, and reporting concerns. We are committed to ensuring that safeguarding information, support, and reporting processes are accessible and responsive to individual communication needs.
Decibels will:
- Promote a culture of safety, dignity, and respect.
- Take all safeguarding concerns seriously.
- Respond promptly and appropriately to concerns and disclosures.
- Recruit staff and volunteers safely.
- Provide safeguarding training and support.
- Work in partnership with individuals, families, statutory agencies, and safeguarding partners where necessary.
- Continuously review and improve our safeguarding practices.
We are committed to ensuring that safeguarding remains at the heart of everything we do.