BiCamp Safeguarding Policy

In line with our anti-discrimination values, BiCamp UK CIC are committed to function in ways that are fair, non-discriminatory and uphold the safety of all members and visitors to our events. We recognise our responsibility to take further steps to protect more vulnerable adults and children who attend events that we host. 

BiCamp exists to connect and provide opportunities to strengthen the bi+ (bisexual, biromantic, asexual, queer, pansexual, questioning and others) community across Birmingham and beyond. We are a safe and friendly social and peer support group for people aged 18+. Our safeguarding policy is in place to protect more vulnerable members of the community from harm and ensure that membership of BiCamp is as safe and happy for all members as possible.

As a community organisation, we have a responsibility for safeguarding. This means keeping people safe from abuse (physical, sexual or emotional) and neglect. We have an attitude of ‘It could happen here,’ recognising that we need to be vigilant to the signs of abuse, to take disclosures seriously and to take appropriate action in the event of there being a concern. We know that safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. We also recognise that different members’ needs can result in complex situations so we do not set out specific rulings but respond to needs that arise, guided by our values. 

We have a designated safeguarding lead (DSL) who has undergone training in recognising signs of abuse and how to react. The name of this person and contact details for sharing a concern will be shared with membership, new members and attendees, along with details of how to share a concern. The email bicampconcerns@gmail.com will be used to report and record concerns.

Concerns raised will be treated appropriately and confidentially. If a member or visitor is suspected to be in immediate danger, we will contact appropriate authorities. If a member or visitor is causing danger to other members or visitors, steps can include an informal warning, a formal warning or expulsion from the group or removal from an event. The wellbeing and safety of members will guide all decisions.