1. Our commitment
Wired/Different is committed to safe, inclusive and respectful online and in-person activity. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.
2. Who this policy protects
This policy covers children and young people aged 8–17, adults, and adults who may be at risk or need additional safeguarding support. It applies to online services and in-person events delivered under the Wired/Different brand.
3. Our approach
- We take concerns about abuse, neglect, exploitation, bullying, discrimination, grooming, financial abuse and risk of harm seriously.
- We use Northern Ireland-appropriate safeguarding practice, including the principles of Adult Safeguarding: Prevention and Protection in Partnership where adult safeguarding applies.
- Staff and volunteers whose roles require criminal record vetting will undergo the appropriate AccessNI checks for their role. Vetting is one part of safeguarding, alongside safer practice, training, supervision and reporting.
- Our Code of Conduct and event guidance apply to all participants.
4. Online participation
Interactive group sessions normally require participants to remain visibly present under our camera-on policy. This helps hosts confirm identity and safeguard the group. Microphones start muted and speaking remains optional. Presentation audiences join with cameras off; every event explains its setup in advance.
Participants must not record, photograph or take screenshots of an online session without clear permission. Online sessions are not described as recorded by default. Any proposed recording requires separate advance review, notice and appropriate permission.
5. Juniors
Wired Juniors is for ages 8–15. A responsible parent or guardian should be involved in signup, agreement to terms, billing and required permissions. The platform is being developed to enforce this account model more fully; until then, families should contact the team before creating a Junior membership.
6. Safeguarding lead
Designated Safeguarding Lead: Angela Smith
Email: safeguarding@wired-different.co.uk.
7. Reporting and responding
Email the safeguarding lead if something has happened, you are worried about someone, or you are unsure whether a concern is safeguarding-related. We will acknowledge and assess concerns promptly, share information only where necessary, and refer to the appropriate services where required.
If someone is in immediate danger, contact emergency services on 999. Do not wait for an email response.
8. Privacy and records
Safeguarding information is handled carefully, kept secure and shared only with people who need it to protect someone or meet a legal duty. Retention follows the organisation’s approved retention requirements; a fixed public retention period is not stated here pending confirmation of the formal schedule.
9. Review
This policy is reviewed when services, safeguarding guidance or organisational arrangements materially change.