Safeguarding Policy

Overview

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This practice works in accordance with the Code of Practice of the Family Mediation Council (FMC) and the professional standards of the Family Mediation Association (FMA), of which I am a member.

Safeguarding is a core responsibility and takes priority over all aspects of mediation.

The welfare of children and the safety of all participants are central to the mediation process.

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Principles of Mediation

Mediation is:

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• Voluntary – you are here by choice

• A safe place to have difficult conversations

• Impartial – the mediator does not take sides or make judgments

• Private and confidential

• Child-focused – keeping children’s welfare at the centre of all discussions and decisions

• Participant-led – participants remain in control of decisions, with guidance and information from the mediator

However, confidentiality does not apply where there is a risk of harm to a child or vulnerable adult.

 

Safeguarding

Safeguarding includes:

• Protecting children and vulnerable adults from harm

• Preventing abuse and neglect

• Promoting welfare and wellbeing

This may include concerns relating to:

• Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse

• Neglect

• Domestic abuse (including coercive or controlling behaviour)

• Child exploitation or radicalisation

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Approach to Safeguarding

Safeguarding is considered at all stages of the mediation process:

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• At initial contact

• During MIAM (separate meetings)

• Throughout mediation

The mediator will remain alert to:

• Risks to children’s welfare

• Domestic abuse and coercive control

• Imbalance of power or ability to participate safely

Mediation will not proceed, or will be paused or ended, where it is assessed to be unsafe or inappropriate.

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Responding to Safeguarding Concerns

Where a safeguarding concern arises, the mediator will:

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• Assess the level and immediacy of risk

• Raise concerns with the client where safe and appropriate to do so

• Seek professional guidance or supervision where necessary

• Take appropriate action, including referral to relevant agencies

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This may include referral to:

• Children’s Services

• Police

• Other relevant safeguarding agencies

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Confidentiality and Information Sharing

All discussions within mediation are private and confidential. However, confidentiality does not apply where:

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• There is a risk of serious harm to a child or vulnerable adult

• There are child protection concerns

• Disclosure is required by law

In such circumstances, information may be shared without consent where necessary to protect safety.

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Record Keeping

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• Clear, accurate, and factual records of safeguarding concerns will be maintained

• Records will be stored securely and in accordance with data protection requirements

• Any decisions and actions taken in response to safeguarding concerns will be documented

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Professional Practice

Safeguarding knowledge and practice are maintained through:

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• Ongoing professional development

• Regular supervision and consultation

• Adherence to FMC and FMA standards and guidance

 

Review

This policy will be reviewed regularly to ensure it remains up to date with current legislation, guidance, and professional standards.