top of page

Safeguarding Policy

Last updated: 15/11/2025

If someone is in immediate danger, contact the police on 999 (for UK).​

​

1. Introduction

This Safeguarding Policy outlines how Adriano Muhlbauer (“I”, “me”, “my”) promotes the safety and wellbeing of children, young people, and adults who engage in my sport psychology services.
I am committed to creating a safe, supportive environment where individuals can explore their experiences freely and without fear.

​

This policy applies to:

  • Children and young people under 18

  • Adults at risk

  • Parents and carers

  • Coaches and organisations who work with me

​

​

2. My Safeguarding Commitment

I am committed to:

  • Protecting children, young people and adults from harm

  • Promoting their rights, wellbeing and autonomy

  • Acting swiftly and appropriately if concerns arise

  • Working in accordance with UK safeguarding laws and guidance

  • Maintaining professional boundaries at all times

​

​My approach follows:

  • Children Act 1989 & 2004

  • Working Together to Safeguard Children (2023)

  • NSPCC standards

  • Safeguarding Adults legislation

  • HCPC / CASES ethical frameworks

​

​

3. Principles of Safeguarding

I follow these key principles:

• Welfare first: The welfare of the child or young person is always the top priority.

• Empowerment: Clients are encouraged to make their own choices and own their journey.

• Protection: I take action when someone is at risk.

• Prevention: Creating a safe environment by minimising risks.

• Professional Boundaries: My role is always supportive, respectful and bound by confidentiality.

• Partnership: When necessary, I work with parents, coaches, schools and safeguarding bodies.

​

​

4. Confidentiality & Safeguarding

All sessions, messages and information are confidential unless:

  • A child or young person is at risk of harm

  • An adult is at immediate risk

  • A disclosure involves grooming, abuse, exploitation or serious harm

  • I am required to share information by law

​

If I need to break confidentiality, I will always:

  1. Inform the client (unless it puts them at further risk),

  2. Explain what will be shared,

  3. Share only what is necessary with the appropriate safeguarding authority.

​

​

5. Recognising Signs of Abuse

Abuse can include:

  • Physical abuse

  • Emotional or psychological abuse

  • Sexual abuse

  • Grooming and online exploitation

  • Neglect

  • Bullying or harassment

  • Abuse of trust

  • Radicalisation

  • Financial or coercive control (adults)

I remain alert to all signs, disclosures, or concerning behaviours.

​

​

6. How I Respond to Safeguarding Concerns

If a concern arises, I will:

  1. Listen carefully without judgement

  2. Take the disclosure seriously

  3. Reassure the client they have done the right thing

  4. Record the facts accurately and securely

  5. Assess immediate risk

  6. Report to the appropriate authority, which may include:

    • Local Authority Safeguarding Team

    • NSPCC

    • Police (if someone is in immediate danger)

  7. Inform parents/carers if appropriate and safe to do so

  8. I never promise secrecy.

​

​

7. Online Safety

Given that some communication or interventions may occur online, I ensure:

  • Secure video platforms

  • No recording of sessions (unless agreed otherwise)

  • No communication outside professional channels (unless agreed otherwise)

  • Immediate action if online grooming, threats or exploitation are suspected.

​

​

8. Working With Parents & Coaches

When working with children and young people:

  • Parents/carers/Coaches are involved appropriately.

  • Psychological details remain confidential unless a safeguarding risk exists.

​

​

9. Professional Boundaries

I maintain clear boundaries at all times:

  • No personal relationships with clients

  • No inappropriate communication

  • No physical contact unless essential (and within ethical guidelines)

  • No working with a child alone in an unsupervised environment unless agreed with parents.

  • All sessions with children or young people must be booked by a parent/carer.

​

​

10. Record Keeping

Safeguarding concerns are recorded securely with:

  • Date and time

  • What was said

  • Actions taken

  • Agencies contacted

Records are stored safely in line with UK GDPR.

 

 

11. Training & Continuing Development

As a Sport Psychologist in Training, I commit to:

  • Regular safeguarding training

  • Staying updated with UK safeguarding legislation

  • Ongoing supervision and reflective practice

​

​

12. Reporting a Concern

If you have concerns about safeguarding relating to my practice, please contact: muhlbaueradriano@gmail.com

If someone is in immediate danger, contact the police on 999.

bottom of page