Gather & Roam Safeguarding Policy

Version: 1.0
Effective Date: 28/07/2026
Review Date: 28/07/2027

1. Policy Statement

Gather & Roam is committed to creating a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone can enjoy spending time outdoors.

We believe that all participants, including children and adults at risk, have the right to take part in our activities in an environment where they feel respected, supported and safe.

We take any safeguarding concerns seriously and will respond appropriately where concerns arise.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all Gather & Roam activities, including:

  • Guided walks

  • Family walks

  • Outdoor experiences

  • Navigation courses

  • Workshops

  • Social events organised by Gather & Roam

3. Our Commitment

Gather & Roam will:

  • Treat all participants with dignity and respect.

  • Promote an inclusive environment free from discrimination or harassment.

  • Take reasonable steps to provide a safe environment during activities.

  • Listen to and respond appropriately to any safeguarding concerns.

  • Maintain appropriate professional boundaries.

  • Protect personal information in line with our Privacy Policy.

4. Children

Children are welcome on designated family activities.

Children under the age of 18 remain the responsibility of their parent, legal guardian or responsible adult throughout the activity.

Gather & Roam does not provide childcare or supervision for children.

Parents and guardians must:

  • Remain with their children at all times.

  • Ensure children behave safely and respectfully.

  • Inform the walk leader of any relevant medical conditions or additional support needs before the activity.

5. Adults at Risk

Gather & Roam welcomes adults of all backgrounds and abilities.

Where an adult may require additional support to participate safely, we encourage them to contact us before booking so we can discuss any reasonable adjustments where possible.

Participants remain responsible for assessing whether an activity is suitable for their own abilities and health.

6. Safeguarding Concerns

If a participant discloses information that raises a safeguarding concern, Gather & Roam will:

  • Listen calmly without judgement.

  • Avoid making promises of confidentiality.

  • Record factual information as soon as possible.

  • Where appropriate, seek advice from the relevant statutory services.

  • Contact emergency services immediately if someone is believed to be at immediate risk of harm.

7. Photography

Photographs may occasionally be taken during activities for promotional purposes.

Permission will always be requested before identifiable photographs are used.

Parents or guardians should inform the walk leader if they do not wish their child to appear in photographs.

8. Conduct

All participants are expected to:

  • Treat others with kindness and respect.

  • Follow instructions given by the walk leader.

  • Behave in a way that does not place themselves or others at unnecessary risk.

  • Respect the natural environment and other countryside users.

Anyone behaving in a manner that places others at risk may be asked to leave the activity where appropriate.

9. Reporting Concerns

If you have a safeguarding concern during an activity, please speak to the walk leader as soon as possible.

If there is an immediate risk to someone's safety, emergency services should be contacted by calling 999.

10. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if legislation, guidance or Gather & Roam activities change.