"The tools used for communication are an often overlooked area of safeguarding. It's essential to use tools that allow for consent to be contacted, protect contact details from those who should not see it, and offer accountability to avoid inappropriate contact."
– Thirtyone:eight
Safeguarding isn't just a policy—it's a commitment to creating secure and respectful environments for everyone. Whether you're leading a charity, managing a workplace, or supporting a local community, ensuring safety is more than ticking boxes. It's about fostering trust and protecting those who rely on you, especially the vulnerable.
The Foundations of Safeguarding
Safeguarding is foundational for any organisation. It builds trust and empowers people to engage fully without fear of harm or exploitation. However, it's easy to overlook the role communication tools play in safeguarding.
Imagine a messaging platform where someone's private details can be accessed by anyone in a group. Or one that doesn't clearly obtain consent to share contact. These oversights create unnecessary risks for organisations aiming to prioritise safety.
The Role of Communication in Safeguarding
At the heart of safeguarding lies communication. It's the thread that holds teams and communities together, allowing collaboration, updates, and support. However, not all communication tools are equal when it comes to protecting users.
Take almost any popular app, for example. While convenient, these tools often fall short in key safeguarding areas. Features like phone number visibility, limited administrative controls, and reliance on manual privacy adjustments can expose users to risks.
A safer approach involves tools that are built with "Safety by Design," ensuring safeguarding isn't an afterthought but an integral part of communication.
Practical Measures for Organisations
1. Obtain Clear Consent
Ensure every individual understands why their data is being collected and how it will be used. Consent must be explicit, informed, and documented.
2. Limit Data Sharing
Avoid sharing personal or sensitive information unnecessarily within groups. Keeping communication on task and professional reduces exposure to risks.
3. Maintain Accountability
Establish clear processes for reporting and addressing safeguarding concerns. Regular reviews of group memberships and access permissions are essential.
4. Provide Training
Equip your team with the skills to recognise safeguarding risks and use tools responsibly. Training can help embed safeguarding into everyday communication practices.
Safety by Design: Tools That Protect
Purpose-built tools, such as Joyned, go beyond functionality. They prioritise safeguarding as the first building block. Joyned exemplifies Safety by Design with features like:
- Safeguarding Functions: Block and report options provide a proactive way to address concerns quickly.
- History Logs: The option to monitor previous contacts eliminates any guesswork in safeguarding and further promotes accountability.
- Controlled Access: Tailored permissions ensure only the right people can access sensitive communications.
- Temporary Groups: Automatically delete groups when their purpose is fulfilled, reducing unnecessary data retention.
- Data Protection: Built-in GDPR compliance means organisations maintain complete control over their data.
By embedding these features into the platform, Joyned helps organisations uphold the highest safeguarding standards while fostering meaningful connections.
A Call to Prioritise Safeguarding
Every organisation has a responsibility to protect its members. Safeguarding isn't just about box-ticking—it's about nurturing environments where everyone feels secure and valued. By adopting tools built with Safety by Design, organisations can confidently focus on their mission, knowing that safety is at the core of everything they do.
Discover how Joyned can support your safeguarding goals. Start your free trial today and experience communication designed with purpose and safety in mind.
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