1. Introduction

The Lilac Café & Microbakery CLG is committed to creating a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for all customers, volunteers, employees, and members of the community. 

This Safeguarding Policy outlines our approach to preventing harm, responding to concerns, and ensuring that everyone who interacts with our organisation is protected, respected, and supported.

 

2. Scope of This Policy

This policy applies to:

• All employees

• Programme Participants
   

• Volunteers and interns
   

• Board members
   

• Contractors and third-party providers
   

• Anyone representing the organisation
   

It covers all activities that take place on our premises, at events, or through any interactions associated with The Lilac Café & Microbakery CLG.

 

3. Our Commitment

We are committed to:

• Protecting children, young people, and adults who may be at risk of harm from abuse, neglect, or exploitation
   

• Creating an environment where everyone feels safe and valued
   

• Ensuring staff and volunteers understand their safeguarding responsibilities
   

• Responding quickly and appropriately to concerns
   

• Complying with Irish legislation including:
   

  • Children First Act 2015
     

  • National Vetting Bureau Acts 2012–2016
     

  • Data Protection legislation
     

  • HSE and Tusla safeguarding guidance
     

 

4. Definitions

Child / Young Person

Anyone under the age of 18.

Adults Who May Need Additional Support

Adults who, due to age, illness, disability, social circumstances, or temporary vulnerability, may have reduced ability to protect themselves from harm or exploitation.

Safeguarding Concern

Any worry, suspicion, or disclosure relating to potential abuse, neglect, or harm.

Types of Abuse Include:

• Physical harm
   

• Emotional or psychological abuse
   

• Sexual abuse or exploitation
   

• Neglect or failure to meet basic needs
   

• Financial exploitation
   

• Discriminatory behaviour or harassment
   

 

5. Roles and Responsibilities

Board of Directors

• Oversees safeguarding practices
   

• Ensures compliance with this policy
   

• Supports safeguarding personnel
   

Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO)
 

laura@thelilaccafemicrobakery.ie we will need a DSO, per event

• Being the first point of contact for safeguarding concerns
   

• Supporting staff and volunteers in reporting
   

• Liaising with Tusla or other authorities when required
   

• Maintaining secure records
   

All Staff & Volunteers

Must:

• Follow safeguarding procedures
   

• Treat everyone with respect
   

• Report any concerns immediately
   

• Attend safeguarding induction/training as required
   

 

 

6. Safe Recruitment

We use safe recruitment processes including:

• Reference checks
   

• Garda vetting (where required)
   

• Role-appropriate safeguarding training
   

• Clear expectations outlined in contracts or volunteer agreements
   

 

7. Code of Conduct

All representatives of the organisation must:

• Maintain professional boundaries
   

• Never act in a way that could be harmful, inappropriate, or abusive
   

• Never provide personal contact details to minors
   

• Behave respectfully and responsibly at all times
   

 

8. Reporting Safeguarding Concerns

Any member of staff, volunteer, customer, or community member can raise a safeguarding concern.

Concerns may arise from:

• Something observed
   

• Something disclosed
   

• A gut feeling or suspicion
   

 

How to Report

Report immediately to:

• The Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO), or
   

• A senior manager if the DSO is unavailable
   

If a child or adult is in immediate danger, call:
999 / 112

External Reporting

The DSO may contact:

• Tusla Child & Family Agency
   

• HSE Safeguarding Teams (for adults at risk)
   

• Gardaí
   

 

9. Confidentiality & Record Keeping

• All concerns are recorded accurately and stored securely
   

• Information is shared only on a need-to-know basis
   

• Reports are handled sensitively in line with data protection legislation
   

• Those who report concerns are protected and supported
   

 

10. Creating a Safe Environment

We ensure safety through:

• Regular risk assessments
   

• Clear supervision guidelines
   

• Safe social media and communication practices
   

• Zero-tolerance for bullying, harassment, or discrimination
   

 

11. Training & Awareness

All staff and volunteers are required to complete Safeguarding Training. It is the responsibility of each individual to ensure they obtain this training.

• Safeguarding awareness training
   

• Information on recognising signs of abuse or harm
   

• Instructions on how to respond to a disclosure
   

• Guidance on professional boundaries
   

 

12. Review of This Policy

This policy will be reviewed:

• Every 12 months
   

• After any safeguarding incident, or
   

• Following legislative or regulatory changes
   

Updates will be approved by the Board and made available to staff and the public.

 

13. Contact Us

For safeguarding concerns or questions, contact:

info@thelilaccafemicrobakery.ie

Or speak directly with the Designated Safeguarding Officer.