Safeguarding & Equality Policy

Last Updated 01/06/2026

1. Policy Statement

Wensum Farmers is committed to:

  • Creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for everyone involved in our activities.
  • Safeguarding children, young people, and adults at risk from harm or abuse.
  • Promoting equality of opportunity and preventing discrimination, harassment, or victimisation.
  • Complying with relevant UK legislation, including the Equality Act 2010, Children Act 1989/2004, Care Act 2014, and safeguarding guidance.

Everyone associated with Wensum Farmers has a responsibility to uphold these standards.

2. Safeguarding Policy

Scope

This applies to all activities organised by or involving Wensum Farmers, including on-farm events, group meetings, educational visits, and partnerships with schools or community groups.

Key Commitments

  • The welfare of children (under 18) and adults at risk is paramount.
  • We will listen to and respect all individuals and act promptly on any concerns about abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
  • We promote a culture where safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.

Definitions

  • Child: Anyone under 18 years old.
  • Adult at risk: An adult who may need community care services due to age, disability, or other factors, and who may be unable to protect themselves from harm.

Roles and Responsibilities

  • Group Coordinator/Lead: Acts as the primary Safeguarding Lead. They handle concerns, liaise with authorities, and ensure policy implementation.
  • All Members and Participants: Must report any safeguarding concerns immediately to the Safeguarding Lead or appropriate authorities (e.g., Norfolk County Council Children’s Services or Adult Social Care, or Police 999 in emergencies).
  • We encourage DBS checks where appropriate for roles involving direct contact with children or adults at risk.

Procedures for Concerns

  1. Report any suspicion, disclosure, or observation of harm to the Safeguarding Lead without delay.
  2. Do not investigate yourself — preserve evidence and support the individual.
  3. The Safeguarding Lead will assess the concern, seek advice (e.g., from NSPCC or local authority), and make referrals as needed.
  4. All incidents will be recorded confidentially and stored securely.
  5. We will support those affected and cooperate fully with statutory agencies.

Prevention Measures

  • Risk assessments for events involving vulnerable groups.
  • Clear codes of behaviour for events.
  • Induction/information for new members on safeguarding.
  • Regular policy review (at least annually).

Contact for Safeguarding Concerns: Danielle Edwards, Group Facilitator (admin@wensumfarmers.co.uk)

3. Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Policy

Purpose

Wensum Farmers aims to foster an inclusive environment where diversity is valued, and everyone is treated with dignity and respect. We oppose all forms of unlawful discrimination.

Protected Characteristics (Equality Act 2010)

We will not discriminate on grounds of: age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage/civil partnership, pregnancy/maternity, race (including colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin), religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.

Commitments

  • Recruitment and Involvement: Open and fair opportunities for membership, roles, or participation (where relevant).
  • Meetings and Events: Accessible venues and formats where possible (e.g., considering mobility, childcare, or language needs).
  • Language and Behaviour: Promote respectful communication and challenge discriminatory behaviour.
  • Partnerships: Work with diverse organisations and communities in the Wensum catchment.
  • Monitoring: Review participation and feedback to identify and remove barriers.

Prohibited Conduct

  • Direct or indirect discrimination.
  • Harassment (unwanted conduct related to a protected characteristic that violates dignity or creates an intimidating environment).
  • Victimisation (treating someone badly because they have made a complaint).

Complaints Procedure

Anyone experiencing or witnessing discrimination should raise it with the Group Coordinator or a designated lead. Complaints will be investigated fairly, confidentially, and promptly. Serious cases may lead to exclusion from group activities or referral to external bodies.

Positive Action

We may take steps to encourage participation from underrepresented groups in conservation and farming (e.g., younger farmers, women in agriculture, or diverse ethnic backgrounds).

4. Implementation and Review

  • This policy will be shared with all members and made available on the Wensum Farmers website (wensumfarmers.com).
  • New members and participants will be made aware of it.
  • The policy will be reviewed annually or following any significant incident/legislative change.
  • Training or briefings on safeguarding and EDI will be provided as needed.