Safeguarding Policy

Purpose & context

This policy outlines how Authentic Yoga & Wellbeing will deliver classes safely in community venues. Authentic Yoga and Wellbeing deliver yoga classes and chair based yoga classes within the local community of South Derbyshire. Generally working with adults over the age of 18 years and mature adults. Occasionally work with children and/or young people may be requested. We have a duty to work to safeguard children, young people, adults and adults at risk. We ensure that all sessions are delivered safely, respectfully, and in line with Derbyshire safeguarding guidance.

Policy Statement

Safeguarding is a core responsibility of Authentic Yoga & Wellbeing.
All participants have the right to feel safe, supported, and respected.
Any concerns about harm, abuse, or neglect will be taken seriously and reported promptly.
Authentic Yoga & Wellbeing will maintain professional boundaries at all times.

Scope

This policy applies to all yoga classes, workshops, and one‑to‑one sessions delivered by Authentic Yoga & Wellbeing in community venues. It covers both in‑person and online sessions.

Definitions

Child: Anyone under 18.
Adult: Anyone over 18.
Adult at risk: An adult with care or support needs who may be unable to protect themselves.
Abuse: Physical, emotional, sexual, financial, discriminatory, organisational, or neglect.

Roles & Responsibilities

Authentic Yoga & Wellbeing is responsible for:

Creating a safe physical and emotional environment.
Completing appropriate safeguarding training.
Holding an Enhanced DBS check when working with under‑18s or adults at risk.
Keeping accurate attendance records.
Ensuring venue safety (lighting, exits, privacy, cleanliness).
Reporting safeguarding concerns to the correct authority.

There is no separate Designated Safeguarding Lead — Alison Sisson from Authentic Yoga & Wellbeing will fulfil this role.

Safe Practice in Community Venues

Arrive early to check the room layout, exits, temperature, lighting, and trip hazards.
Ensure mats are spaced safely and that emergency exits are accessible.
Use consent‑based language for physical adjustments; avoid hands‑on adjustments for minors unless essential and with parental consent.
Ensure privacy by holding a safe space when participants are lying down or resting.
Maintain professional boundaries at all times.
Do not be alone with a child or young person; a parent/guardian must remain present.

Working with Children & Young People

Under‑18s may only attend with a parent/guardian present.
Hands‑on adjustments are avoided unless absolutely necessary and agreed in advance.
No one‑to‑one sessions with minors.
Parents/guardians must complete a consent form before participation.

Recognising Signs of Abuse

Be alert to:

Unexplained injuries
Sudden changes in behaviour
Fearfulness or withdrawal
Signs of neglect
Disclosures of harm

These indicators follow Derbyshire safeguarding guidance.

Responding to Concerns or Disclosures

If someone shares a concern or discloses harm:

Stay calm and listen.
Do not promise confidentiality.
Record what was said using their own words.
Report the concern immediately.
If someone is in immediate danger, call 999.

Do not investigate yourself.

Reporting Safeguarding Concerns

South Derbyshire Contacts
- Adults at risk → Derbyshire Adult Care Safeguarding
- Phone: 01629 533190
- Email: adult.care@derbyshire.gov.uk
Children’s concerns → Derbyshire County Council Children’s Services
- Phone: 01629 533190
- Contact: Online referral system
- Immediate danger → Police (999)

Safeguarding concerns will be handled in a sensitive manner, reported as soon as possible and recorded securely.

Information Sharing & Confidentiality

Information is shared only when necessary to protect someone from harm.
Consent is sought where appropriate, but concerns may be reported without consent if safety requires it.
Records are stored securely and kept confidential.

Safe Recruitment

Authentic Yoga & Wellbeing does not recruit staff. However, if guest instructors are invited:

They must hold appropriate safeguarding training.
They must have an Enhanced DBS check if working with under‑18s or adults at risk.
Their role and responsibilities must be clearly defined.

Training

Authentic Yoga & Wellbeing will complete safeguarding training appropriate to their role and refresh it every 2–3 years.

Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if:

Local safeguarding guidance changes
Legislation changes
A safeguarding incident occurs
Community venue requirements change

Working with Adults

This policy emphasises safeguarding adults at risk, ensuring their safety, dignity, and respect during yoga sessions. Authentic Yoga & Wellbeing will:

Recognise signs of abuse or neglect specific to adults.
Use clear, respectful communication adapted to adult needs.
Maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality.
Ensure the physical environment is accessible and safe for adults with varying needs.
Encourage adults to express concerns and provide support pathways.
Require participants to complete a health information form before participation.
Ask participants to inform the instructor of any new illnesses or injuries that may affect their practice.

Policy date: 18/09/2026 A.C.Sisson