1. Purpose

Thistle Paws Rescue (TPR) is committed to safeguarding the wellbeing of everyone involved in our work, volunteers, foster carers, adopters, supporters, and members of the public alongside ensuring the safety and welfare of the animals in our care. We aim to create an environment where concerns can be raised openly, respectfully, and without fear of judgement. Safeguarding is a shared responsibility and a core priority across all areas of our rescue.

2. Our Safeguarding Commitment

TPR is committed to:

• Being open‑minded, respectful, and non‑judgemental
• Maintaining clear guidelines and procedures for identifying, reporting, and managing risk
• Providing appropriate training and support for volunteers and foster carers
• Ensuring safe, consistent recruitment and management practices, reviewed regularly
• Encouraging the reporting of concerns and responding with timely, proportionate action
• Learning from experience to continuously improve our safeguarding approach

3. Who This Policy Applies To

This safeguarding policy applies to:

• All TPR volunteers, foster carers, and trustees
• Adopters and prospective adopters
• Members of the public engaging with TPR activities
• Anyone representing or supporting TPR in any capacity

Safeguarding applies to both people and animals, and concerns relating to either will be taken seriously.

4. Reporting a Concern

If you have a concern about:

• The welfare or safety of an animal
• The behaviour or wellbeing of a volunteer, foster carer, adopter, or member of the public
• Any situation connected to TPR that may pose a risk

You should report it as soon as possible.

📧 Email: info@thistlepawsrescue.org

All reports will be handled confidentially and sensitively, with information shared only with those directly involved in addressing the concern. Appropriate action will be taken based on the nature and urgency of the issue.

5. How Concerns Are Handled

• Concerns are acknowledged promptly and reviewed by a senior volunteer or trustee trained in safeguarding.
• Information may be gathered from relevant individuals to understand the situation fully.
• Where necessary, TPR may seek advice from external professionals (e.g., vets, behaviourists, social services, or law enforcement).
• Actions taken will always prioritise safety, welfare, and proportionality.
• Records of safeguarding concerns are stored securely in line with data protection requirements.

6. Continuous Improvement

TPR regularly reviews safeguarding practices, training needs, and any reported concerns to strengthen our procedures and ensure best practice across the organisation.

7. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if safeguarding guidance, legislation, or organisational needs change.