Accessibility & Reasonable Adjustments Policy
Purpose:
To ensure equitable access for disabled and neurodivergent individuals.
Policy:
- We will make reasonable adjustments to services, communication, and venues.
- Sensory-friendly and mobility-accessible options are prioritised.
- Feedback on access needs is actively encouraged and responded to.
Assistance Dog Support & Ethics Policy
Purpose:
To guide clients ethically in training assistance dogs.
Policy:
- Support is ongoing and relationship-based.
- No guarantee of accreditation.
- Dogs must meet welfare and suitability standards.
Canine Welfare Policy
Purpose:
To ensure compassionate, force-free treatment of all dogs.
Policy:
- No aversive tools or punishment.
- Dogs must live with guardians and be consent-focused.
- Welfare is monitored regularly.
Complaints Policy
Purpose:
To respond to concerns fairly and use them to improve.
Policy:
- Informal resolution encouraged.
- Formal complaints reviewed within 14 days.
- Appeals handled by a neutral third party.
Conflict of Interest Policy
Purpose:
To maintain trust and transparency in decision-making.
Policy:
- All staff must declare personal or financial interests relevant to the organisation.
- Conflicted individuals must abstain from related decisions.
- Records of declarations are maintained securely.
Data Protection and Confidentiality Policy
Purpose:
To protect private data and comply with GDPR.
Policy:
- Data stored securely.
- Shared only with consent or legal requirement.
- Clients may access or amend their data.
Digital & Social Media Policy
Purpose:
To represent the organisation positively and safely online.
Policy:
- Consent must be obtained before sharing images or quotes.
- Online content must align with the values of inclusion, respect, and positivity.
- No identifiable client info will be shared without written consent.
Environmental Sustainability Policy
Purpose:
To minimise our ecological footprint in operations and outreach.
Policy:
- We aim to reduce waste, travel emissions, and paper use.
- Materials and merchandise will be sourced sustainably where possible.
- Dog welfare remains primary—green practices will not compromise animal safety.
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Policy
Purpose:
To provide an inclusive, affirming, and accessible environment.
Policy:
- LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent inclusion is core.
- Misgendering, ableism, and discrimination will not be tolerated.
- Adjustments are made to accommodate varied needs.
Finance & Expenses Policy
Purpose:
To ensure ethical, transparent use of funds.
Policy:
- Records kept and reviewed quarterly.
- Reimbursements require receipts.
- Surpluses reinvested into services.
Health & Safety Policy
Purpose:
To provide a safe environment for clients, staff, volunteers, and dogs.
Policy:
- Risk assessments are conducted for venues, events, and activities.
- First aid kits and emergency procedures are in place.
- Incidents are recorded and reviewed for prevention.
- Dogs must be under control and not in distress or poor health.
Lone Working Policy
Purpose:
To protect staff and volunteers working alone or in remote settings.
Policy:
- Lone workers must inform a designated contact of location and duration.
- Carry a charged phone and emergency contact info.
- Avoid lone in-person work with vulnerable clients unless risk assessed.
- Check-ins at agreed intervals are required.
Safeguarding Policy
Purpose:
To protect disabled participants, neurodivergent individuals, and others from harm.
Policy:
- Staff and volunteers undergo DBS checks.
- All safeguarding concerns go to the Designated Safeguarding Lead.
- Respect autonomy and dignity of clients at all times.
Training & Supervision Policy
Purpose:
To support the development and wellbeing of staff and volunteers.
Policy:
- Training on safeguarding, dog welfare, inclusion, and disability rights is provided.
- Regular supervision sessions are scheduled to reflect and resolve challenges.
- Feedback is welcomed and used to improve practices.
Volunteer Policy
Purpose:
To ensure all volunteers are valued, supported, and understand their roles.
Policy:
- Volunteers will receive induction and ongoing supervision.
- Roles are matched to each volunteer’s strengths, interests, and access needs.
- Volunteers are expected to uphold the values and code of conduct of the organisation.
- Expenses may be reimbursed with prior agreement and receipts.