Diane Wills Therapist Consultant and Coach

Safeguarding Policy for Diane Wills

    Policy Statement

    I, Diane Wills, am committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all adult clients and participants across my services. I work exclusively with individuals aged 18 and over and recognise my duty of care to protect clients, participants, and colleagues from harm and to act appropriately if concerns arise.

    Scope

    This policy applies to all professional activities undertaken by Diane Wills, including:

    • Coaching, training, and consultancy services

    • Therapeutic and wellbeing sessions (including HeartHealing® and other approaches)

    • Work delivered in-person or online

    • Group and individual work

    Responsibilities

    • I am responsible for safeguarding within my business practice.

    • I maintain professional insurance to cover all services offered.

    • I undertake safeguarding training and update this at least every three years.

    Recognising Abuse or Neglect

    I remain alert to potential indicators of abuse or neglect, which may include (but are not limited to):

    • Significant unexplained injuries

    • Sudden or unusual changes in behaviour

    • Disclosures made during sessions or training

    • Signs of self-harm, coercion, exploitation, or undue influence

    Responding to Concerns

    If a safeguarding concern arises:

    • I will listen calmly and respectfully, without judgment.

    • I will make clear that confidentiality cannot be guaranteed if there is a risk of serious harm.

    • I will record concerns promptly, factually, and securely.

    • I will seek advice and report concerns to appropriate authorities, such as the Local Authority Safeguarding Adults Board, or in emergencies, the police (dial 999).

    • I will follow relevant UK safeguarding legislation, including the Care Act 2014.

    Confidentiality

    Confidentiality will be maintained except in cases where there is:

    • Risk of serious harm to the client, participant, or others

    • Risk of a serious crime being committed

    In these cases, concerns will be escalated to the relevant external authorities.

    Record Keeping

    • All safeguarding concerns will be recorded factually, promptly, and securely.

    • Records will be encrypted and managed in compliance with GDPR.

    • Records will be retained for 7 years in line with professional standards.

    Professional Boundaries

    • I work exclusively with adult clients (18+).

    • Professional boundaries are maintained to ensure safe, ethical practice.

    • Dual relationships (e.g., providing services to close friends or family) are avoided wherever possible.

    Policy Review

    This policy will be reviewed annually, or sooner if legislation or best practice guidance changes.

    Date Created: 15th August 2025
    Next Review Due: 15th August 2026