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Safeguarding statement

Childrens' feet hanging from a tree branch
Children sitting on a tree branch at Rowallane Garden, County Down | © National Trust Images / John Millar

This statement outlines the National Trust’s commitment to the safeguarding of all visitors, staff, volunteers and contractors. This includes children, young people and adults at risk, protecting them from potential neglect, physical, sexual and emotional harm.

Our commitments to safeguarding

We are committed to:

  • taking all reasonable steps to ensure the safeguarding and welfare of all those that come into contact with the National Trust

  • putting their welfare as a priority in all we do

  • respecting their views, feelings and rights.

Who is responsible

All adults in the National Trust are responsible for putting our safeguarding instruction at the centre of all planning and operations and to follow the clear reporting process when they suspect or are aware of a safeguarding incident or concern. They receive information and training that outlines their responsibilities to safeguarding, which starts at recruitment.

Recruiting the right people

The National Trust follows Safer Recruitment guidelines to ensure we have the right people working and volunteering with children, young people and adults at risk.

Anyone working with, or volunteering for, the National Trust will receive and have access to details of our Safeguarding code. They will be responsible for adhering to the code at all times.

Our Safe and sound leaflet is a simple guide to the ways we can uphold our commitment to safeguarding and the Safeguarding code.

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Safeguarding code 

Download the National Trust's safeguarding statement.

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Safe and sound leaflet 

Download the National Trust's Safe and sound leaflet.

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