Public statement on our safeguarding and compliance procedure

For several months, we’ve been subject to some offensive and abusive messages that no one should receive, whether staff or volunteer. These messages are fuelling a lot of misinformation on our compliance and safeguarding procedures. We call for respect and kindness. 

We’re proud to be an inclusive organisation. Safeguarding is our highest priority. Girlguiding is delivered by more than 80,000 remarkable volunteers and our trained volunteers follow a Code of Conduct, policies and procedures to ensure our Rainbows, Brownies, Guides and Rangers unit meetings and events are delivered safely every week. 

A lot of care and attention to detail goes into making guiding happen safely and ensuring that all our young members’ needs are balanced and considered.

Our rigorous recruitment and vetting processes and policies help keep our members safe. We comply with all legislative requirements and continually review and strengthen our safeguarding procedures coupled with bespoke safeguarding training to create and maintain a safe space for all. 

Girlguiding operates a thorough complaints procedure and takes all safeguarding concerns, allegations and disclosures raised very seriously. When we receive a complaint or there’s a potential breach of the Code of Conduct or policy, we follow our complaints procedure. This involves the local guiding team managing the investigation, with relevant support from senior leaders and the central specialist teams. Serious concerns are escalated to the relevant authorities.  

At Girlguiding, we have a duty of care to staff and all members, which we take seriously. We welcome constructive feedback that enhances Girlguiding. Where communications are threatening or harmful, and in extreme cases, we support individuals if they choose to refer them to the police. If Girlguiding is contacted by the police or any other statutory agency, we will cooperate as required to do so.  

We have been looking after girls and young women for over 100 years and we always have their needs, their safety and their enjoyment at the heart of everything that we do.