I am on the train home from a day working in my volunteer role as the national lead volunteer for Safeguarding for Girlguiding. This involves supporting our volunteer workforce to embed safe ways of working and to access high quality training to enable them to do this. I am consistently amazed by how much time Girlguiding volunteers give to ensure that girls have a great time each week. That is an amazing half a million members!
This week has also involved my training safeguarding for both paid staff and volunteers. As I reflect on the training, along with my work today, the approach might be slightly different, and different organisations have different policies and procedures. However, this week – as every week – I am struck by how committed individuals are to get it right for the children and vulnerable adults they work with. This includes commitment such as going the extra mile to help a distressed young women; an extra visit to a vulnerable young adult living in supported accommodation or just being a listening ear to staff and volunteers who have concerns.
When high profile stories hit the press, it is easy to lose sight of this. Those who work with children and vulnerable adults are truly an amazing workforce. It is a privilege to work with you – THANK YOU!