Safeguarding Policy
This Safeguarding Policy sets out how IDC – Ian Derry Counselling ensures the safety and protection of clients—particularly children (under 18) and vulnerable adults—when engaging in online therapeutic counselling.
I am committed to promoting a safe, ethical, and supportive environment for all clients and will act without delay if there is any concern about a person’s safety or well-being.
Policy Statement
• The welfare of all clients is paramount.
• All clients—regardless of age, gender, race, disability, sexuality, or religion—have equal rights to protection from harm or abuse.
• I will take all safeguarding concerns seriously and respond appropriately.
Scope
This policy applies to all therapeutic work conducted via online platforms (e.g., Zoom ), phone, or other remote
methods. It is relevant to all clients but places particular emphasis on children and vulnerable adults.
Definitions
• Child: Anyone under the age of 18.
• Vulnerable Adult: An adult who may be unable to protect themselves from harm due to mental illness, disability, or other risk factors.
• Safeguarding: Protecting people’s health, well-being, and rights, and enabling them to live free from harm, abuse, and neglect.
Responsibilities
As the sole practitioner at IDC – Ian Derry Counselling, I am responsible for:
• Holding a valid Enhanced DBS Check
• Maintaining clear records of safeguarding concerns
• Reporting any safeguarding risks to the relevant authorities (e.g., Local Authority, Police) in line with legal obligations
Safeguarding in Online Practice
When working online, I take additional steps to ensure client safety:
• Verifying identity and age of all clients at the outset
• Obtaining informed consent from parents/guardians when working with under-18s
• Conducting sessions in a private, secure setting using encrypted platforms
• Encouraging clients to be in a safe and confidential space for each session
Parental/Guardian Involvement (for Under-18s)
• Written consent is required from a parent or legal guardian before counselling begins
• Depending on the age and maturity of the young person, confidentiality will be respected within agreed boundaries
• Safeguarding concerns will be communicated to parents/guardians unless doing so could place the child at further risk
Recognising and Responding to Abuse
Types of abuse may include:
• Emotional, physical, sexual abuse
• Neglect
• Online grooming or exploitation
• Self-harm or suicidal ideation
If a safeguarding concern arises:
1. I will make a written record immediately after the session, noting date, time, and details.
2. I will assess the level of risk and consult with safeguarding professionals if needed.
3. Where there is immediate danger, I will contact emergency services or the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO). www.cityoflondon.gov.uk
4. I will inform the client (and parents/guardians if appropriate) when a disclosure needs to be escalated, unless
doing so would increase risk.
Data Protection and Confidentiality
I am registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) ico.org.uk and comply with the UK GDPR.
Safeguarding records are stored securely and separately from general client note
Information is shared strictly on the need to no basis and in line with GDPR and ICO ico.org.uk
Clients are informed about the limits of confidentiality at the start of therapy
Disclaimer
Online therapy is not a replacement for medical, psychiatric, or emergency care. If you are in crisis or need immediate support, please contact your local emergency services or a crisis helpline.
Online therapy may not be suitable for everyone or every situation. By using this service, you acknowledge the limitations and risks associated with online communication, including potential technical or privacy issues beyond the therapist’s control.
Therapy is a collaborative process and outcomes cannot be guaranteed. Further details are provided in the 'Our Way of Working ' agreement, which will be shared before sessions begin.
Review and Updates
This Safeguarding Policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if there are changes in legislation, best practice, or online counselling procedures.
Contact Information
Safeguarding Lead: Ian Derry
Email: Ian@iderry.co.uk
Emergency Contacts:
• Police/999 (Immediate danger)
• NSPCC: 0808 800 5000
•Local Safeguarding Board: www.cityoflondon.gov.uk