Safeguarding Policy
Company Name: East Coast Engineering Consultants Ltd.
Effective Date: 3rd March 2026
1. Purpose and Scope
This policy applies to all subject matter experts (SMEs) and contractors working for East Coast Engineering Consultants Ltd. Our priority is to provide a safe environment for our client base which can include young adults and school leavers aged under eighteen.
2. Personnel Requirements
All SMEs must hold an Enhanced DBS check (with Barred List check) issued within the last 3 years.
Personnel must undergo annual safeguarding awareness training.
3. Safe Online Delivery (Teams/Virtual Classrooms)
Platform Only: All contact must occur via official East Coast Engineering Consultants Ltd. Microsoft Teams calls/Virtual Classroom links. Call content must only include subjects detailed in the course delivery syllabus approved by East Coast Engineering Consultants Ltd.
No Private Contact: SMEs are strictly prohibited from contacting learners via personal social media, WhatsApp, or private email - email contact permissible only for course related material and course specific communication, such as arranging time-slots for ongoing mentoring packages.
Recording: On rare occasions sessions may be recorded for quality and safeguarding purposes with prior parental/learner consent. Recordings are stored securely and deleted after ninety days.
Environment: Both the SME and the learner must join calls from a neutral room (e.g., a study or living room), not a bedroom. Professional attire is required at all times. SMEs have the right to cancel and re-arrange calls should conditions not be met.
4. Reporting Concerns
If an SME suspects a learner is at risk of harm, they must immediately report this to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): Bailey Thompson (+44) 7939 841 507. For learners under the age of eighteen, an accompanying parental/legal guardian consent form shall be completed prior to any calls taking place. In emergencies, we will contact the relevant UK local authority or the police.