Policy Statement: The Waterberg Trust is fully committed to safeguarding the welfare of all children and vulnerable adults who engage with our projects, staff, trustees, and volunteers in South Africa. This policy establishes a zero-tolerance approach to any form of abuse, exploitation, or neglect.

 

1. Organization Details

• Name of Organization: The Waterberg Trust

• Address: 6 Trull Farm Buildings, Tetbury, Gloucestershire GL8 8SQ

• Email: enquiries@thewaterbergtrust.org

• Website: www.thewaterbergtrust.org

• Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): Barry Burles

• Policy Reviewed: June 2026

• Next Review Date: June 2027

 
2. Scope and Core PurposeThis policy applies to all trustees, employees, volunteers, and partner organisations working on welfare, healthcare, and education projects funded or facilitated by The Waterberg Trust.
The purpose of this policy is to:

• Provide protection for children and vulnerable adults who receive services or benefits from our projects.

• Provide trustees, staff, and volunteers with the overarching principles that guide our approach to safeguarding.

3. Definitions

• Child: Any individual under the age of 18 years.

• Vulnerable Adult: An individual aged 18 or over who is or may be in need of community care services by reason of mental or other disability, age, or illness; and who is or may be unable to take care of themselves, or unable to protect themselves against significant harm or exploitation.

4. Code of Conduct

All individuals representing The Waterberg Trust must adhere to the following standards of behavior:

• Respect: Treat all beneficiaries with dignity, respect, and fairness regardless of age, gender, race, religion, or ability

• Boundaries: Maintain professional boundaries. Avoid inappropriate physical contact, language, or one-on-one private situations with minors or vulnerable adults

• Privacy: Do not share personal contact details (such as social media profiles or personal phone numbers) with beneficiaries.

• Compliance: Follow local laws and cultural norms while upholding international safeguarding standards.

5. Safe Recruitment and Vetting
The Trust ensures that anyone working directly with vulnerable groups undergoes appropriate screening.

• Background Checks: Representatives must clear a UK Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check or the equivalent South African police clearance check.

• Reference Verification: References will be strictly checked for all project leaders and key personnel before funding or deployment.

6. Reporting and Incident Procedure

If an individual discloses abuse, or if a representative witnesses or suspects safeguarding misconduct, they must act immediately:

1. Listen: Maintain a calm demeanor. Listen without interrupting. Do not investigate, interrogate, or promise absolute secrecy, as the information must be shared to protect them.

2. Reassure: Confirm to the person that they have done the right thing by speaking out.

3. Record: Document the disclosure immediately. Write down the precise words used, the date, the time, and the location. Avoid adding personal assumptions or opinions.

4. Report: Escalate the written report directly to the Chair of Trustees, who serves as the designated person responsible.

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7. Whistleblowing and Accountability ​

 The Trust fosters an open and accountable culture. Anyone who raises a legitimate concern regarding a safeguarding failure will be supported and protected from reprisals. Reports will be investigated thoroughly, fairly, and in total confidence.

 

8. Confidentiality and Regulatory Reporting

Information regarding safeguarding concerns will be treated with strict confidentiality. It will only be shared on a strict "need-to-know" basis with relevant local authorities in South Africa and regulatory bodies such as the UK Charity Commission to ensure legal compliance. 

Policy Approval

• Approved by: Board of Trustees

• Date of Adoption: 19 June 2026

 

Registered charity number : 1115964