Sessions and Sail – Safeguarding Policy

 

1. Purpose and Commitment

Sessions and Sail is committed to creating a safe, respectful and supportive environment for everyone who takes part in our voyages. Our activities bring together people of different ages, genders, backgrounds and lived experiences in a residential setting, and we recognise that this can create situations where individuals may be vulnerable or at risk. Safeguarding is therefore a core part of our culture and practice.

We believe that everyone has the right to feel safe, valued and protected from harm, abuse or exploitation. This policy outlines how we uphold that responsibility.

 

2. Scope

This policy applies to all participants, tutors, crew, contractors, partners and visitors, on board and ashore.

 

3. Safeguarding

Safeguarding means protecting people from:

  • physical harm
  • emotional harm, bullying or intimidation
  • sexual harm or harassment
  • neglect
  • abuse of power or position

Any behaviour that compromises safety, dignity or wellbeing is a safeguarding concern.

 

4. Responsibilities

Safeguarding is a shared responsibility. Everyone involved in a Sessions and Sail voyage or experience is expected to:

  • act respectfully and uphold the Code of Conduct
  • look out for the wellbeing of others
  • raise concerns promptly if something feels unsafe
  • maintain appropriate boundaries in a residential setting

Safeguarding coordination:

The Captain oversees safeguarding on board. A member of the Sessions and Sail management team ashore provides support and an alternative route for concerns.

Supervision of sessions:

All Sessions and Sail activities, including late‑night sessions, are stewarded by a trusted tutor or crew member. Their role is to support a safe atmosphere, remain alert to concerns, and act as a point of contact for participants.

 

5. Raising Concerns

Concerns may be raised with:

  • any tutor or crew member
  • the Captain
  • Sessions and Sail management ashore

All concerns will be taken seriously and handled sensitively. Immediate risks will be acted on without delay.

 

6. Responding to Concerns

When a concern is raised, Sessions and Sail will:

  • listen without judgement
  • ensure immediate safety
  • record concerns factually
  • decide on appropriate next steps
  • contact external agencies if required

Confidentiality will be respected unless someone is at risk.

 

7. Record‑Keeping

Safeguarding concerns are recorded securely, with access limited to senior management. Records are retained in line with best practice.

 

8. Review

This policy is reviewed annually or sooner if required.

 

Download: /files/1394087/Sessions and Sail Safeguarding Policy