Safe from Harm Adviser

Safe from Harm – good practice for adults in guiding

“It is the policy of Girlguiding UK to safeguard its members from physical, sexual and emotional harm while participating in guiding activities.

The Association takes all reasonable steps to ensure that, through relevant procedures and training, children, young people and adults taking part in guiding activities do so in a safe environment.”

As an adult within guiding, it is expected that you should always:

• Respect everyone as an individual
• Provide a good example of acceptable behaviour
• Respect everyone’s right to personal privacy
• Be available as a listening ear and, if necessary, refer for more appropriate help
• Be sensitive to other people’s likes and dislikes
• Try to ensure that your actions cannot be misunderstood or cause offence and are acceptable within a relationship of trust
• Show understanding when dealing with sensitive issues
• Plan to have more than one adult present during activities
• Adhere to the rules and recommendations outlined in The Guiding Manual
• Uphold the Associations Safe From Harm: Code of Practice
• Remember that you are accountable to the girls, their parents/carers and Girlguiding UK

Remember that, if an allegation is made of abuse by a child or against someone involved in guiding – you must refer. You must not investigate.

Refer to your Safe from Harm card.

Speak to your District/Division Commissioner and/or the County Safe from Harm Adviser