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Safeguarding Policy

Introduction

Open Source Europe (OSE) is committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all staff, volunteers, partners, and beneficiaries. This policy outlines our commitment to safeguarding and sets out procedures for reporting and responding to concerns.

What is Safeguarding?

Safeguarding refers to the actions we take to protect people, especially children and vulnerable adults, from harm. This includes protection from:

  • Abuse (physical, sexual, emotional, neglect)
  • Exploitation
  • Neglect
  • Discrimination
  • Bullying

Our Commitment

OSE is committed to:

  • Promoting a culture of safety and well-being for everyone involved in our activities.
  • Sharing safeguarding guidance with staff and volunteers, including how to report concerns and their role in protecting people.
  • Providing clear procedures for reporting concerns.
  • Taking all concerns seriously and having the safeguarding leads review them to determine appropriate next steps.
  • Supporting anyone who has been affected by safeguarding incidents.

Who is Vulnerable?

Safeguarding applies to everyone, but some people may be more vulnerable to harm. This includes:

  • Children
  • People with disabilities
  • Older adults
  • People who are dependent on others

Reporting Concerns

Anyone who has a concern about the safety or well-being of someone involved in OSE activities should report it immediately. This applies even if they are not sure about the nature of the concern.

Contact the safeguarding leads listed below to report a concern. OSE does not provide a continuously staffed reporting service or guarantee a response time.

How to Report a Concern

Concerns can be reported to:

If a concern involves one of the safeguarding leads, contact the other lead directly, provided they are not also involved.

Reports can be made in person, by email, or in writing. Information is shared only with those who need it to handle the concern or where disclosure is required by law. Absolute confidentiality cannot be promised.

What Happens When a Concern is Reported?

All reported concerns are taken seriously. The safeguarding leads review each report and determine appropriate next steps, including referral to external services or relevant authorities where necessary. OSE does not systematically conduct an internal investigation.

Depending on the circumstances, appropriate action may include:

  • Referral to relevant authorities
  • Disciplinary action
  • Support for the person who raised the concern or the person at risk

Confidentiality

OSE limits the sharing of information about safeguarding concerns to those who need it to handle the concern or where disclosure is required by law. Absolute confidentiality cannot be promised.

Support

OSE listens to people affected by safeguarding incidents and directs them towards appropriate support services. OSE does not organise or fund psychological counselling.

Training

OSE shares safeguarding guidance with staff and volunteers, including how to respond to and report concerns. OSE does not currently provide systematic safeguarding training.

Review

This policy will be reviewed regularly to ensure it remains effective.

Need Assistance?

For any questions about this policy or safeguarding in general, please contact the safeguarding lead at home@opensourceeurope.org.

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