This policy was agreed by the advisory group of DilDil ድልድል on: 30th January 2026. It will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary. The next review is due by: 31th January 2027
DilDil ድልድል Community Interest Company
34 Goldbourne Road
London
W10 5DT
07474 734920
info@dildil.org
Company Number: 16195043
DilDil ድልድል Community Interest Company – Safeguarding Policy
1. Introduction and Purpose
At DilDil ድልድል Community Interest Company (DilDil ድልድል CIC), we are committed to protecting the safety and well-being of young Eritrean and Ethiopian refugees. This Safeguarding Policy explains how we ensure their safety, prevent harm, and respond properly to any concerns about abuse or neglect. Our goal is to make sure our services are a safe and trusted space for young people.
It follows legislation and guidance as laid out in:
• The Care Act 2014
• Courts and Criminal Justice Act 2015
• The Children’s Act 1989, 2004
• Disclosure and Barring Service Regulations
• The Equality Act 2010
• Human Rights Act 1998
• Serious Crime Act 2015
• Revised Prevent Duty Guidance for England and Wales 2015
• Working Together
• The London Child Protection Procedures
2. Who We Are
DilDil ድልድል CIC is a community-based organization focused on supporting young Eritrean and Ethiopian refugees. Our team includes people with lived experiences, as well as professionals with expertise in refugee support. We understand the challenges these young people face and aim to provide safe, culturally-sensitive services that promote healing, empowerment, and successful integration into UK society.
3. Definitions
• Abuse – can include: physical, financial, material, sexual, psychological, discriminatory, emotional abuse and neglect. Abuse can take place in any setting, public or private, and can be perpetuated by anyone.
• Young person – any person under the legal age of majority, i.e. all under 18s.
• Community member – refugees and asylum seekers who make use of any of DilDil’s services, activities or groups.
• Staff – paid workers, employed by DilDil ድልድል.
• Visitors – anyone attending DilDil ድልድል.
• Volunteer – any person who offers help to DilDil ድልድል.
• Vulnerability – we consider that all of our community members have some additional vulnerability by virtue of their forced migration experience, their immigration status, and the impacts of these.
4. Our Commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI)
DilDil ድልድል CIC is fully committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion in all our services and policies. We believe that every young refugee, regardless of their background, identity, or experiences, deserves to be treated with respect, dignity, and fairness. Our approach to safeguarding is built on our commitment to equality, ensuring that each young person has a safe space where their cultural identity is respected and their needs are met without discrimination. We aim to create an environment where young refugees feel supported, empowered, and heard. This is reflected in all our services, programs, and interactions, which promote cultural sensitivity, equality, and inclusivity.
5. Our Commitment to Safeguarding
We believe safeguarding is our main responsibility. We are committed to:
• Preventing harm: We aim to create a safe space free from abuse or neglect.
• Supporting young refugees’ well-being: We work to improve the physical, emotional, and mental health of those we support.
• Acting on concerns: If safeguarding issues arise, we will respond quickly and appropriately, ensuring young people feel safe and supported.
6. Scope of the Policy
This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, visitors, and anyone else working with young people at DilDil ድልድል CIC. It covers:
• Preventing abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
• Promoting the welfare and safety of young refugees.
• Reporting and handling safeguarding concerns.
• Training staff to recognize and respond to safeguarding issues.
7. Roles and Responsibilities
• Safeguarding Lead: The Safeguarding Lead is responsible for making sure this policy is followed and for handling safeguarding concerns. They will ensure all staff are trained in safeguarding.
• Staff and Volunteers: Everyone working with us must:
a) Create a safe, welcoming environment.
b) Be alert to signs of abuse or neglect.
c) Report any safeguarding concerns immediately to the Safeguarding Lead.
d) Take part in Mandatory safeguarding training covers the key risks and vulnerabilities in people’s lives, signs to look out for, how to respond to a disclosure, and how to report any concerns to the Safeguarding Lead. Any volunteers who remain at DilDil ድልድል for more than two years will take a refresher course.