Bee Inspired Safeguarding Disclosure & Reporting Policy
Bee Inspired prioritises the well-being of our associates and clients. To safeguard their well-being, this safeguarding policy is reviewed reguarly and undergoes annual training for all associates.
Safeguarding Disclosures & Reporting Overview
Whether during a session or through other communication methods, if a client discloses something of concern, or there is a perceived risk to their safety or well-being, there are two potential pathways to follow - Emergency or Concern.
Please identify and follow based on the descriptions below. If in doubt, please follow the emergency process.
Click below for more detailed instructions on each stage of the relevant pathways. There is also a section of key resources which include the link to access the safeguarding form which you can access here:
Emergency Pathway
Concern Pathway
Emergency - Initial Support
A disclosure can be made in various ways, and we know that supporting someone in the moment of crisis is key to ensuring their wellbeing. To ensure you feel equipped here are some key guidelines for you to follow on the rare occasion of an emergency.
Guidelines For Disclosure While On A Video or Phone Call
It's vital to remain calm and composed when someone shares thoughts and feelings about self-harm and suicide. Often, they feel disconnected from others and the world around them, so speaking to them in a normal tone can help establish a sense of connection.
Asking simple questions that invite them to be present, along with attentive listening, can make them feel safe, connected, and validated. For instance:
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Thank you for sharing this with me.
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How does it feel to take a deep breath right now?
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Can you name three things you can physically feel?
Don’t feel obligated to ask them why they feel this way, but if they do share, listen without judgment. Please do not be worried about asking difficult questions such as “Have you thought about ending your life?” Or “ Do you have a plan to take your own life?” This wont cause them to take action and in fact, may help them to feel heard.
When appropriate, you'll need to explain that this disclosure requires breaking confidentiality (as per their contract) and telling someone to ensure they get the right support.
Then, please encourage them while on the call to do one of the following (use your judgment as to which is the best place to start, and if they are hurt in any way, start with 999, either by getting their address and calling yourself or asking them to call):
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Call a friend or family member with whom they feel safe and ideally could join them where they are.
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Help them to write a safety plan using our template.
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Call 999 or the Samaritans on 116 123
If they do not engage, and your time is coming to an end, please inform them that you will ring Samaritans and pass on their number, which can be found in your client record. This means that Samaritans will call them and ask if they wish to talk.
When the session comes to an end, reassure them that support is available and encourage them to book another session.
Immediately after the session, you are required to complete the safeguarding form (more information in the next section). Please do what you need in order to take care of your own well-being and thank you immensely for supporting our client during this challenging time.
Guidelines For Disclosure Via Email or Other Communication Channels
After reading the message, take a moment to breathe and check in with yourself, Then open up the safeguarding form and copy and paste the message there. Although it might feel tough, please do not reply until the DSL has spoken to you and a plan has been put in place. Please take care of your own well-being and know you are doing the right thing by passing on the information.
Emergency - Safeguarding Form
Once you have finished with the client, it is imperative that you immediately complete our safeguarding form. The form will ask you:
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The nature of the concern. There is a long list to select from, please do your best to include all that are relevant.
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The details of the disclosure. In this space, please capture all the client said during the disclosure keeping it factual and avoiding your thoughts and opinions. We appreciate this can be hard, but it will only hinder the support.
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Steps taken. This will include your guidance to them such as advising them to call 999/samaritans/a friend and the choices they made when you were speaking.
Capture any facts you feel are relevant and don't worry about giving too much or too little. If you are really unsure, complete the form and then know that a DSL will reach out to you for clarification (if needed) and to check on how you are feeling. Again, please do what you need in order to take care of your own well-being and thank you immensely for supporting our client during this challenging time.
Emergency - DSL Informs Learning Provider
Upon receiving a safeguarding form, our DSL will promptly notify the client's Learning Provider, following their safeguarding protocols. This communication will explain why Bee Inspired is no longer the most suitable source of support and collaboratively explore alternative options to best meet the learner's ongoing needs.
Emergency - DSL Connects With Associate
Following the conversation with the Learning Provider, the DSL will connect with you to offer support and address any questions you may have. They'll also discuss the situation and your willingness to continue supporting the client for the remaining two sessions. There's absolutely no pressure – the DSL can take over and manage the final sessions if needed. Finally, together we will create a list of alternative resources that will guide the focus for the client's final sessions.
We understand you might be interested in future updates on the client's progress. However, due to confidentiality, we can't guarantee information can always be shared.
Emergency - Alternative Resources & Supporting Letter
Following discussions with the Learning Provider and yourself, the DSL will finalise the next steps for supporting the client. This will involve sharing some alternative resources, a letter to assist them in speaking with their GP, and details regarding their final two sessions. You'll have the flexibility to deliver this information directly to the client, or the DSL can handle communication.
Emergency - Supporting Client With Two Further Sessions
To ensure that the Client has the best support possible, the Associate or DSL will have two final sessions with the Client, helping them to reach out to alternative/more appropriate support options together.
Emergency - Report To Learning Provider
As the client progresses through their final two Bee Inspired sessions, the DSL will report to the Learning Provider to update them on the disclosure, support offered, suggested resources, and the support end date. This collaborative effort ensures the client receives continued support that best meets their needs.
Emergency - Support To Come To An End
Following the completion of the two final sessions, and after exploring alternative support options, Bee Inspired sessions will conclude. However, we remain available for future referrals if the client's needs again align with our services.
Key Resources
You can access all the important information and supporting resources by clicking below. If you require further help, please reach out to Bee Inspired with the contact details shared.
Information Letter to Client Template
Communication Letter to GP & Other Services Template
DSL - CEO & Founder
Micha Reynolds
+44 7584 505 202
DSL - Head Of Support
Sam Isles
Concern - Initial Support
The supportive environment we create often encourages clients to share sensitive information. To ensure both your well-being and the client's safety, it's essential to document these disclosures. While immediate crises can arise, often, concerning information accumulates over time. This documentation helps us build a comprehensive understanding of the client's situation, enabling informed decision-making within the safeguarding team when necessary to ensure the client receives appropriate support.
Guidelines For Disclosure While On A Video or Phone Call
When a client discloses sensitive information such as self-harm, abuse, or suicidal thoughts, it's essential to create a safe space for them to share their experiences. Avoid making assumptions about their current state and focus on active listening. While continuing the session as planned can often be supportive, consider these additional strategies:
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Encouraging connection with supportive people in their network
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Exploring additional resources, such as Samaritans
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Discussing the option of consulting with their GP
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Referring them to a Bee Inspired counsellor if appropriate.
If you feel it necessary, inform the client that you may need to make internal notes about the disclosure. Assure them that their confidentiality will be maintained unless there is an imminent risk of harm to themselves or others.
After the session, complete the required safeguarding form. Remember to prioritize your own well-being and seek support if needed.
Guidelines For Disclosure Via Email or Other Communication Channels
If you receive a concerning message from a client, use your professional judgment to determine if an immediate response is necessary or if the matter can be addressed during your next session.
Potential areas of focus for addressing client concerns include:
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Encouraging connection with supportive people in their network
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Discussing the option of consulting with their GP
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Referring them to a Bee Inspired counsellor if appropriate.
Please copy and paste the message within the required safeguarding form. Remember to prioritize your own well-being and seek support if needed.
Concern - Safeguarding Form
Once you have finished the client session, you must now complete the safeguarding form. The form will ask you:
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The nature of the concern. There is a long list to select from, please do your best to include all that are relevant.
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The details of the disclosure. In this space, please capture all the client said during the disclosure keeping it factual and avoiding your thoughts and opinions. We appreciate this can be hard, but it will only hinder the support.
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Steps taken. This will include your guidance to them such as developing a safety plan or exploring alternative support options.
Capture any facts you feel are relevant and don't worry about giving too much or too little. If you are really unsure, complete the form and then know that a DSL will reach out to you for clarification (if needed) and to check on how you are feeling. Please do what you need in order to take care of your own well-being and thank you immensely for supporting our client during this challenging time.
Concern - Support Sessions Continue
You will continue to support the client, reporting any further disclosures in accordance with this safeguarding process.
Concern - DSL Reviews & Monitors Client's Wellbeing
The DSL will review the disclosure(s) and collaborate with you to determine the appropriate next steps based on the client's vulnerability and the nature of the information shared. This may involve sharing additional resources or contacting the Learning Provider. Regular check-ins will be offered to support your well-being and ensure you have the necessary support.
Concern - Additional Resources & Supporting Letter
You and the DSL will collaborate to create a list of alternative support options and a letter to assist the client in communicating with their GP and other relevant providers. Ideally, you will deliver this information directly to the client, but if you prefer, the DSL can handle this communication.
Concern - DSL Informs Learning Provider
If and when our DSL identifies a safeguarding concern, we will promptly inform the client's Learning Provider, adhering to their safeguarding process. This communication will outline the specific concerns raised, explain why Bee Inspired believes the client's needs are best met by alternative support, and collaboratively discuss the appropriate number of remaining sessions.
Concern - Support Comes To An End
Bee Inspired sessions conclude when the support reaches its natural endpoint, or when safeguarding concerns necessitate a referral to alternative support that better addresses the client's needs. We welcome future referrals if the client's needs align with our services again.