Safeguarding at Step by Step Keeping Young People Safe

Your safety and wellbeing are at the heart of everything we do at Step by Step. Whether you live in one of our accommodations, are supported through Launch, or are just exploring your options, we want you to feel safe, respected, and listened to.

This page explains what safeguarding means, how we protect young people, what happens when you speak up, and where you can go for help.

What Does Safeguarding Mean?

Safeguarding is about keeping you safe from harm or abuse. It means:

• Protecting you from being hurt, bullied, or exploited
• Making sure your environment is safe and supportive
• Listening to you and taking your concerns seriously
• Helping you get the right support when you need it

It’s your right to feel safe at home, at school, online, and in your relationships. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to speak up.

What We Do To Keep Young People Safe

At Step by Step, we work hard to create safe spaces and relationships you can trust. Here’s how we do that:

• All staff, volunteers and hosts are trained in safeguarding
• Everyone who works with young people is DBS checked (checked for a criminal record and checked to make sure they're not on a barred list)
• We have clear boundaries and house rules to protect everyone
• Our spaces are regularly reviewed to make sure they’re safe
• Your voice matters – we shape your support around your needs
• We take all concerns seriously and follow clear safeguarding policies

You’ll never get in trouble for speaking up. Your safety comes first.

Who You Can Talk To

There are lots of people at Step by Step who are here to listen and support you.

If You're In Step by Step Accommodation

Speak to your support worker or another member of the team you trust. You don’t have to wait for a scheduled session.

If You're In Supported Lodgings

You can talk to your host or a member of the Step by Step team. We’ll always listen and help you take the next step.

If You're Supported By Launch

You can talk to a member of the Launch team. Even if you don’t currently have a support worker, you’re always welcome to reach out.

If You’re In Step by Step Counselling

You can talk to your counsellor.

Not in a current service but worried about something? You can still contact us for advice.

What Happens When You Speak Up

If something is worrying you, the most important thing is to tell someone. When you speak up, here’s what you can expect:

• We will listen to you without judgement
• We will take your concerns seriously
• We will work with you to understand what support is needed

We know that speaking up can feel scary, especially if you’re unsure what will happen next. We’ll talk things through with you at your pace.

Sometimes, we may need to share what you tell us with other professionals – like social workers, the police or safeguarding teams – if we’re worried about your safety or someone else’s. We’ll always explain this to you first, and keep you involved in what happens next as much as possible.

You are not alone, and you're not in trouble. Speaking up shows strength – and helps keep you and others safe.

How To Speak To Us

To speak to someone at Step by Step, you can:

• Talk to a worker in person
• Contact your support worker or Launch team member
• Call us on 01252 346 100 and ask to speak to a safeguarding lead

If you're not sure who to talk to, just ask – any member of staff can help you find the right person.

You Can Also Speak To:

You’re never alone. Here are some other places you can go for help:

• Childline – call 0800 1111 or visit childline.org.uk
• The Mix – advice on mental health, relationships, drugs and more at themix.org.uk
• Your school or college – ask to speak to your safeguarding or pastoral lead
• Emergency services – if you or someone else is in danger, call 999

Remember: speaking up is a sign of strength, not weakness. You’re not alone – and there are people ready to help you feel safe and supported.