Safeguarding Statement
Practice Details
Practice Name: HollyTree Wellbeing Services
Counsellor: Holly Webb
Effective Date: July 2026
Review Date: July 2027
Version: 1.0
My Commitment to Safeguarding
At HollyTree Wellbeing Services, the safety, wellbeing and welfare of every client is my highest priority.
I am committed to providing a safe, respectful and supportive environment where children, young people and adults feel heard, valued and protected.
Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility. I take my professional and legal safeguarding responsibilities seriously and work in accordance with current legislation, national guidance and the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) Ethical Framework.
My Approach to Safeguarding
Safeguarding means protecting people from abuse, neglect, exploitation and harm, while promoting their wellbeing and supporting them to live safely.
As part of my professional responsibilities, I remain alert to any concerns that may indicate a client, or another person, is at risk of harm.
I regularly review my safeguarding knowledge and undertake continuing professional development (CPD) to ensure my practice reflects current legislation and recognised good practice.
Working with Children and Young People
When working with children and young people, I recognise the importance of balancing confidentiality with safeguarding responsibilities.
I work collaboratively with children, young people, parents and carers wherever possible to promote trust, safety and wellbeing.
Counselling provides a confidential space for young people to talk openly. However, if I believe that a child or young person is at risk of significant harm, or that another person may be at risk, I have a professional duty to take appropriate action.
Where it is safe and appropriate to do so, I will explain any concerns and discuss the next steps with the young person and, where appropriate, with their parent or carer before sharing information.
Working with Adult Clients
I am equally committed to safeguarding adult clients, particularly those who may be vulnerable because of illness, disability, age or other circumstances.
If I become concerned that an adult is experiencing abuse, neglect or exploitation, I will consider my safeguarding responsibilities carefully and act in accordance with current legislation, professional guidance and local safeguarding procedures.
When Information May Be Shared
Confidentiality is a fundamental part of counselling. However, there are exceptional circumstances where I may need to share information without your consent.
These include situations where:
A child or young person is at risk of abuse or neglect.
A vulnerable adult is at risk of abuse or neglect.
There is a serious risk of harm to you or another person.
Disclosure is required by law or by a court.
Sharing information is necessary to prevent or detect a serious crime.
Whenever possible, I will discuss this with you first unless doing so would increase the risk of harm.
Only the minimum information necessary will be shared, and only with those who need to know.
Partnership Working
Where appropriate and in the best interests of the client, I may work collaboratively with other professionals involved in their care or support.
This may include:
General Practitioners (GPs)
Schools or colleges
Health professionals
Social care services
Other agencies involved in safeguarding
Information is shared only where it is lawful, necessary and proportionate.
Safer Practice
To promote a safe and professional service, I:
Work within the BACP Ethical Framework for the Counselling Professions.
Maintain appropriate professional indemnity insurance.
Undertake regular clinical supervision.
Participate in continuing professional development (CPD).
Follow written safeguarding procedures.
Maintain secure and confidential records.
Comply with UK data protection legislation.
Review safeguarding policies regularly to reflect current guidance and legislation.
Professional Standards
I am committed to maintaining high standards of professional practice through ongoing learning, reflection and accountability.
My practice is guided by:
The BACP Ethical Framework for the Counselling Professions.
Relevant safeguarding legislation and statutory guidance.
UK data protection legislation.
Professional supervision.
Regular safeguarding training and continuing professional development.
Questions About Safeguarding
If you have any questions about safeguarding or how concerns are managed within my practice, I will be happy to discuss them with you before counselling begins.
I believe that being open and transparent about safeguarding helps to build trust and enables clients and families to make informed decisions.
Related Policies
Please also read my:
These documents explain how I work, protect your information and fulfill my professional responsibilities.
Policy Review
Document Owner: Holly Webb
Version: 1.0
Effective Date: July 2026
Review Date: July 2027