Safeguarding Policy

 

At Good Karma Assistance Dogs, the safety of our members and the public is our highest priority.

 

As an organization, we are committed to ensuring that every member feels safe and welcomed within our community at all times.

 

When safeguarding concerns arise, we act promptly to investigate and take the necessary steps to protect our members and the public.

 

Every concern raised is treated with the utmost seriousness and addressed appropriately, while respecting the confidentiality and data protection rights of all individuals involved.

 

Our organization works closely with vulnerable individuals, including children under 18, who require the consent and support of their parents or legal guardians at all times. We also assist adults aged 18 and older, but in certain circumstances, we may need to obtain consent from a parent or legal guardian, particularly if the adult is unable to provide informed consent under the Mental Capacity Act 2005.

 

We support individuals who are neurodivergent, have learning difficulties, or experience mental health conditions.

 

Some of the mental health conditions for which we train assistance dogs include:

 

• Autism

• ADHD

• CPTSD or PTSD

• EUPD/BPD

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder

• Panic Disorder

• Social Anxiety Disorder

• Agoraphobia

• Bipolar Disorder

And many more. If your condition isn’t listed, please feel free to reach out to us as our scope is extensive.

 

We require medical documentation confirming the diagnosis to ensure we can provide the necessary support and assistance.

 

Our dedicated safeguarding team is committed to implementing all necessary measures to protect our members and prevent any issues that may arise during our operations.

 

During any safeguarding procedure, we will strive to provide our members with the best possible protection. If appropriate, we will inform the member involved that their personal data may be shared with relevant parties, such as the police, mental health professionals, or social services, should further investigation or legal involvement be required.

 

We reserve the right to retain records of any incidents involving safeguarding concerns. These documented cases will be used to ensure appropriate procedures are followed, and we may share them with the relevant third parties upon request. You will be notified of this process to maintain transparency and prevent any misconduct or data breaches.

 

All documents will be securely stored in a separate file, protected by a passcode, with each incident report date-stamped. Access is restricted to our safeguarding officers only.

 

If you have any safeguarding concerns regarding our members, please do not hesitate to contact our safeguarding team via email at goodkarmaassistancedogconcerns@gmail.com.

We will address the situation and work towards an appropriate resolution.

 

Please note that we cannot disclose the outcome of any investigation or the specific actions taken regarding your concern. All matters are handled with strict confidentiality among our safeguarding officers, the member involved, and relevant authorities.

 

Welfare of Dogs

Ensuring the welfare of dogs is a responsibility we take seriously. If we have any concerns regarding the treatment or wellbeing of a dog, we are committed to reporting these issues to the appropriate authorities. Dogs rely on us for their care and protection, and it’s essential that we remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding their welfare.

Five Essential Needs for Dog Welfare

To maintain a high standard of welfare for dogs, there are five key needs that must be met:

  1. Proper Nutrition: Dogs require a balanced diet that meets their specific nutritional needs based on their age, breed, and health status. Access to clean, fresh water is also vital.
  2. Regular Exercise: Physical activity is crucial for a dog’s mental and physical health. Regular walks, playtime, and opportunities to explore their environment help keep dogs fit and happy.
  3. Health Care: Routine veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, and preventive care are essential for maintaining a dog’s health. Prompt attention to any medical issues is also necessary.
  4. Safe and Comfortable Living Conditions: Dogs need a secure, clean, and comfortable space to live. This includes protection from extreme weather, safe shelter, and a clean environment.
  5. Social Interaction and Mental Stimulation: Dogs are social animals that thrive on companionship. Regular interaction with humans and other pets, as well as mental challenges like training and puzzles, are important for their wellbeing.

By ensuring these five needs are met, we can provide a nurturing environment that promotes the overall welfare of dogs. Together, we can make a difference in their lives and ensure they receive the love and care they deserve.