SPM Development Services Limited
Assessment Policy
May 2025
Reviewed and Updated: September 2025
Next Review: September 2026, or sooner if statutory guidance changes.
Purpose
We want all staff to feel confident in raising concerns about poor practice, wrongdoing, or
safeguarding failures. This policy explains how staff can do this and how they will be
supported.
Scope
This policy applies to all staff, tutors, contractors, and volunteers. It covers concerns about
malpractice, illegal acts, poor safeguarding practice, or risks to children and young people.
What to Report
Concerns may include:
• Safeguarding failures or unsafe practice
• Unsafe practice in homes or online
• Fraud, malpractice, or mismanagement
• Breaches of law, policies, or statutory guidance
• Any risk to the welfare of children and young people
How to Report
• Concerns should normally be raised with the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL):
DSL: Simon Piper-Masha
Email: simon@spmdevelopmentservices.co.uk | Tel: 07787 530009
• If the concern involves the DSL, staff should contact the commissioning local authority, the
Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO), or the NSPCC Whistleblowing Helpline (0800
028 0285).
• Concerns can be raised verbally or in writing and should be reported as soon as possible.
Protection for Whistleblowers
• Staff raising concerns in good faith will not face victimisation, dismissal, or detriment.
• Confidentiality will be respected as far as possible.
• This policy links to the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998.
Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed annually, or sooner if statutory guidance changes.