Safeguarding is not just about protection from harm, it is also about creating an environment of trust, respect, and opportunity.
At Step by Step, safeguarding is at the heart of everything we do. We believe every child, young person, and vulnerable adult deserves to grow up safe, supported, and able to thrive. Safeguarding is not just about protection from harm, it is also about creating an environment of trust, respect, and opportunity.
We see young people as heroes in their own right. Safeguarding is how we protect the space for them to grow, overcome challenges, and build a brighter future.
We follow national legislation and statutory guidance, including Working Together to Safeguard Children (2023), Keeping Children Safe in Education (2024), and the Care Act (2014). These guide our safeguarding practice, but our commitment goes further:
Protecting children and young people from abuse, harm, and neglect.
Preventing risks to their health, wellbeing, and development.
Providing safe and supportive environments where young people can flourish.
Taking action quickly and proportionately to secure the best outcomes.
We train all our staff, volunteers, hosts, and foster carers to recognise and respond to concerns. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.
Our Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSLs) are here to listen, take concerns seriously, and act swiftly.
Contact the DSLs
Mae Harris and Kelly Headen
📞 01252 346100
✉️ dsl@stepbystep.org.uk
If you are worried about a child, young person, or vulnerable adult linked with Step by Step:
Contact our DSLs using the details above.
If a young person is in immediate danger, call 999.
You can also contact your local authority safeguarding service directly.
For advice, the NSPCC Helpline is available on 0808 800 5000.
We take every concern seriously, investigate promptly, and work with partners to protect those at risk.