Safeguarding & Welfare Risk Assessment Template

Typical hazards & measures

• Safe physical spaces — Perform annual safeguarding audits of all buildings and outdoor spaces. Install signage, cameras, and secure access points. Remove obstructions or create clear sightlines to prevent unsupervised or unsafe areas.
• Digital safeguarding and online safety — Implement strict policies for online communications, using monitored platforms. Obtain parental consent for digital activities. Block private messaging and regularly audit online groups and apps.
• Culture of reflection and continuous improvement — Conduct annual safeguarding audits. After incidents, hold reviews and adjust policies. Encourage youth voice feedback and anonymous surveys to refine safeguarding approaches.
• Safeguarding record-keeping — Maintain structured incident logs, include date, staff involved, and action taken. Audit safeguarding records annually. Store securely with limited access permissions for safeguarding leads only.
• Safe recruitment and clearance — Require all staff and volunteers to undergo appropriate background screening—including criminal record checks, reference verification, and identity confirmation—prior to appointment. Re-screen or obtain updated disclosures at least every three years, or sooner if role or risk changes. Maintain secure digital or physical records of checks, training, and ID verification, and verify identity again during onboarding to ensure only vetted individuals engage with youth or vulnerable groups.