Safeguarding Policy Summary

As part of the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), art therapists must adhere to safeguarding principles to protect children and vulnerable adults from harm. HCPC’s core values—fairness, compassion, inclusivity, and enterprising spirit—guide this responsibility.

The policy emphasizes identifying and responding to safeguarding concerns, ensuring that those who interact with vulnerable individuals are equipped to recognize and act on abuse or neglect. This includes physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, neglect, and discriminatory actions. Safeguarding is a collective responsibility, requiring inter-agency collaboration and appropriate information sharing, always following relevant laws, including data protection regulations.

Art therapists must be proactive in identifying risks, listen to concerns, and report them swiftly. Training and support are provided to ensure professionals handle safeguarding issues effectively, with the option to escalate concerns through internal or external channels. The HCPC’s zero-tolerance stance on discrimination ensures fair and safe practices for all.

For further details, refer to the full safeguarding guidelines on the HCPC website.