Issue - meetings

The People Manager presented the report which was seeking approval of the revised Safeguarding Policy for 2026 and also the report seeks approval of the proposed Safeguarding Action Plan for 2026/27.  Safeguarding is a core responsibility for the Authority.  During last year safeguarding arrangements were subject to a systematic review using NSPCC safety check standards checklist. It was noted that there has not been any safeguarding incidents within the past year. 

Members discussed the following:

•         All the staff are required to complete the training and a record kept.  Last year 231 staff members completed the safe-guarding training on ELMS.

•         It was noted that in paragraph 4.4 of Appendix 1 it should read “themself” instead of himself/herself.

•         The scope of responsibilities was discussed and it was noted that a member of the People Team worked closely with the Peak District Foundation on their employment policies.

•         The frequency at which the safe-guarding group meets was discussed and it needs to be proportionate to the work involved.  The group is scheduled to meet six-monthly however can meet on an ad-hoc basis as needed and if a situation arises.

•         The policy with regard to work-experience students was discussed and whether there was a robust process in place to protect both the students and staff. 

The recommendations as set out in the report were proposed and seconded, put the vote and carried.

RESOLVED:

1.      Subject to the amendment identified in paragraph 4.4, the revised Safeguarding Policy (Appendix 1) is approved as Authority policy from 24 April 2026.

2.      The Safeguarding annual report 2025-26 (Appendix 2), is noted.

3.      The draft Action Plan for 2026-27 (Appendix 3), is approved.