Safeguarding Regulations and Guidance Notes

The purpose of the consultation was to seek comments on the proposed content of the Safeguarding Board (Qualifications and Procedures) Regulations 2018, which set out the functions and operation of the Board and the Safeguarding Together Guidance, which provides a framework for professionals to work together to meet the requirements of the Safeguarding Act 2018.

Views were sought from everyone, but in particular from relevant stakeholders, including Government Departments, the third sector, private sector organisations and voluntary agencies that provide services to children and vulnerable adults.

Within the Programme for Government 2016-2021 the Isle of Man Government has committed to a society that is inclusive and caring. Within the theme of ‘Healthy and Safe Island’ there is a further commitment to improve the quality of life for children, young people, vulnerable adults and families at risk.

The consultation had 14 responses:

• 12 online responses and
• a further 2 which were received by email

Of these total 14 responses:

• 9 respondents consented to publishing their response and these are now published and available to review
• 2 of the responses made specific comments on fostering and family placement services – the Cabinet Office has ensured these comments have been passed on anonymously to the relevant Department

Of the 12 online responses, 8 were submitted by individuals and 4 were submitted on behalf of organisations.

Responses to the consultation included:

• the scope of the Regulations and data sharing
• the appointment of independent Board members
• third and private sector representation on the Board
• a number of specific comments in respect of the practical operation of the Board and panels
• DBS checks
• the responsibilities of non-affiliated bodies
• a number of queries regarding the provisions within the Safeguarding Together Guidance
• the potential burden on volunteers
• partnership working
• risk management
• implementation of learning outcomes
• the practicalities of partnerships working

Full consideration has been given to the consultation responses received resulting in a number of amendments to the Regulations and Safeguarding Together Guidance.

The Regulations and Safeguarding Together Guidance have been submitted for consideration at the January 2019 sitting of Tynwald.