Safeguarding policy.

1. Our commitment

The Phoenix Foundation is committed to safeguarding the welfare of the service members, veterans, and families it supports, and of everyone who comes into contact with our work. We recognise that those recovering from the psychological impact of war may be vulnerable, and we act accordingly.

2. Scope

This policy applies to trustees, staff, volunteers, clinical partners, and any organisation delivering services on our behalf.

3. Principles

• The wellbeing and dignity of the individual comes first.
• Care is delivered by accredited, vetted practitioners.
• Concerns are taken seriously, handled confidentially, and acted upon promptly.
• We serve the individual, not the headline — no one is asked to share their story in exchange for care.

4. Reporting a concern

Anyone with a safeguarding concern should contact our safeguarding lead at safeguarding@phoenixfoundation.org. Concerns involving immediate risk to life should be reported to the emergency services first.

5. Partners

All clinical and delivery partners are required to hold their own safeguarding policies and appropriate professional accreditation, which we verify before any referral.