Safeguarding

Safeguarding

Safeguarding means protecting people’s health, wellbeing, and human rights so they can live, work, and participate safely and free from harm, abuse, neglect, exploitation, or discrimination.

At KAEFER, safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. We are committed to creating a safe, respectful, and supportive environment for all.

If you feel like something is having a day-to-day impact on you at work or at home and is making you feel worried or uncomfortable, you can reach out to your immediate Line Manager. ​​Otherwise, we also have three designated safeguarding leads within the business who you can contact: 

Fiona Craig, Emerging Careers Lead – Fiona.Craig@kaefer.com

Natalya Ganatra, P​eople & Rewards Lead – Natalya.Ganatra@kaefer.com

Lyndsey Culey, Recruitment Manager – Lyndsey.Culey@kaefer.com

 

Safeguarding is most often associated with children, young adults or vulnerable individuals; but it is equally relevant in the workplace, especially where young people are present in apprentice and trainee positions. 

Safeguarding may apply to: 
  • Young people (including but not limited to apprentices & trainees) 
  • Adults who may need support due to:  
  • Age  
  • Disability  
  • Illness or mental health needs  
  • Learning difficulties  
  • Personal circumstances  
  • Social or financial pressures  

Remember: Not all vulnerabilities are visible. 

Safeguarding Is Everyone’s Responsibility – Every employee, supervisor, and manager has a role to play by: 

  • Treating others with dignity and respect
  • Being alert to signs of concern or inappropriate behaviour
  • Challenging unsafe or unacceptable practices
  • Knowing how and where to report concerns
  • Acting promptly if something does not feel right

Creating a safe workplace depends on a shared culture of accountability, openness, and care.

Types of Harm & Impact

Safeguarding covers a wide range of harm that individuals may experience. The five main types are:​

  • Physical abuse ​
  • Emotional or psychological abuse​
  • Neglect​
  • Sexual abuse or exploitation​
  • Cyber or financial​
  • Abuse/bullying​

Resources

In addition to our Safeguarding Leads, we also have our EAP (provided by Health Hero):

Each type of harm can present in different ways. Common warning signs include:​

  • Distrust or wariness of adults​
  • Frequent or unexplained injuries​
  • Inconsistent explanations for injuries​
  • Expressions of suicidal thoughts​
  • Difficulty concentrating or staying focused​
  • Low self-esteem​
  • Aggressive or overly demanding behaviour​
  • Misuse of drugs or alcohol​
  • Self-harm or suicide attempts ​

While the presence of one or more of these signs does not confirm that someone is being harmed, it should raise concern and prompt further action. Failing to act on these signs could lead to a situation worsening.