Self-audits

It is good practice for an organisation to regularly audit its safeguarding policy and procedures to make sure they are being effective in protecting people from harm. 

Without regular auditing, it can be difficult for an organisation to know whether or not the safeguarding arrangements it has in place are working and if they are being followed. 

How frequently an organisation carries out a self-audit is down to the level and complexity of the safeguarding arrangements it has in place, but should be done at least every THREE years. This is in addition to the annual review of the Safeguarding Policy. 

A self-audit should be conducted by the Safeguarding Lead or Team, with oversight and support from the Designated Safeguarding Trustee. All audits should be reviewed by the governance or trustee board. 

The main questions that should be answered by an audit are:

• Are the safeguarding arrangements in place effectively protecting vulnerable people from harm and abuse? 
• Are there any problems or areas that need to be reviewed or improved? 

After an audit has been completed, a plan of actions should be drawn up with a timescale for completion. 

Things to consider

An audit should look for evidence that processes are being followed e.g. reviewing staff training logs, reviewing safeguarding documentation and complaints. 

A questionnaire or survey for workers or brief interviews with a small group of staff or volunteers can provide evidence of compliance and test levels of knowledge and awareness. 

A traffic light system or Red-Amber-Green (RAG) rating can be used to identify areas of improvement that may be needed. 

Policies and procedures should also be revised, as required in line with any changes to legislation, guidance or feedback from service users.