Background
Samaritans, a leading UK charity dedicated to providing emotional support, sought to enhance their safeguarding measures for children involved in out-of-school settings. Recognising the importance of adhering to the highest standards of safety, they aimed to achieve the newly established BSI PAS 5222:2024 certification. This standard offers a comprehensive framework for safeguarding children outside traditional educational environments.
Challenge
Navigating the intricacies of the BSI PAS 5222 standard required specialised knowledge and experience. Samaritans needed a partner who could provide expert guidance to align their policies and practices with the stringent requirements of the certification.
Solution
Samaritans engaged Bramah HR and safeguarding, renowned for their expertise in safeguarding and human resources, to facilitate the certification process. Bramah HR and safeguarding conducted a thorough audit of Samaritans' existing safeguarding policies and procedures, identifying areas for enhancement to meet the BSI PAS 5222 standards.
Implementation
Bramah HR and Safeguarding collaborated closely with Samaritans to implement the necessary measures focusing on:
- Governance and Accountability:
- Policies and Procedures:
- Safeguarding Measures:
- Training and Awareness:
- Monitoring and Review:
Outcome
In March 2025, Samaritans became the first charity to achieve the BSI PAS 5222 certification, underscoring their commitment to child safety. This accomplishment not only enhances their reputation but also sets a benchmark for other organisations aiming to strengthen their safeguarding practices.
Conclusion
Through strategic collaboration with Bramah HR and Safeguarding, Samaritans successfully navigated the complexities of the BSI PAS 5222 certification process. This case exemplifies how expert guidance and dedicated effort can lead to significant advancements in organisational safeguarding standards, ultimately ensuring the well-being of children in out-of-school settings.
