Safeguarding Policy

Bramhall Cars Limited — Last updated: March 2026

1. Purpose

Bramhall Cars Limited is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults. This policy sets out our approach to recognising, responding to, and reporting safeguarding concerns.

All drivers, staff, and contractors working with Bramhall Cars have a responsibility to safeguard the welfare of children and vulnerable adults.

2. Scope

This policy applies to the operator, all drivers contracted to fulfil bookings, and any staff (paid or unpaid) who have access to booking records or interact with customers.

3. Recognising Concerns

Drivers and staff should be alert to the following indicators of potential harm:

• A child or vulnerable adult who appears distressed, frightened, or unwilling to travel
• An adult accompanying a child who appears to be controlling, aggressive, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Requests to transport unaccompanied children, particularly late at night
• A passenger who appears confused, disorientated, or unable to communicate their destination
• Signs of physical injury or neglect
• Situations involving potential sexual exploitation, such as a young person being transported to a location to meet unknown adults
• Any situation where the driver feels a child or vulnerable adult may be at risk

4. Responding to Concerns

If a driver or staff member has a safeguarding concern, they should:

• Remain calm and not put themselves or the passenger at risk
• If there is an immediate risk to life, call 999
• Note as many details as possible: names, descriptions, vehicle registrations, addresses, times
• Report the concern to the operator immediately
• Do not investigate the concern themselves or confront any individual
• Do not discuss the concern with anyone other than the operator, police, or council

5. Reporting

The operator will:

• Log all safeguarding concerns in the complaints and safeguarding register
• Report concerns to the police (101 or 999 in an emergency) and/or Stockport Council Licensing Department as appropriate
• Notify the Licensing Authority immediately (within 24 hours) of any allegation of a sexual nature, violence, or substance misuse involving a driver
• Cooperate fully with any police or council investigation
• Retain all records for the duration of the operator licence

6. Reporting Contacts

• Police (emergency): 999
• Police (non-emergency): 101
• Stockport Council Licensing: 0161 474 3272 / licensing@stockport.gov.uk
• Stockport Safeguarding Children: 0161 217 6028
• Stockport Adult Safeguarding: 0161 217 6029
• Crimestoppers (anonymous): 0800 555 111

7. Unaccompanied Children

Drivers should exercise caution when asked to transport unaccompanied children (under 18). If there is any concern about the child's welfare, the driver should contact the operator before commencing the journey.

8. Training

All drivers and staff will receive safeguarding awareness training. This training will be provided within one month of commencing work and refreshed at least every two years.

9. Review

This policy will be reviewed annually, or sooner if required by changes in legislation, licensing conditions, or following a safeguarding incident.