Who this policy applies to
This policy applies to all students, staff, volunteers and managers at the Orpheus Centre.
Our approach
Orpheus respects the diversity of personal relationships, sexual orientations and identities. No single lifestyle or belief is promoted above others. Everyone is expected to treat one another with courtesy, respect and dignity, and to act in ways that protect personal and emotional wellbeing.
Key principles
The policy balances:
- Individual rights and freedoms
- Consent and capacity to make decisions
- Safety and safeguarding
- Respect for others, including families and carers
All situations are considered individually, within a clear legal and ethical framework.
Rights of students
Within the law and with appropriate safeguards, students have the right to:
- Develop personal and intimate relationships of their choosing
- Access education about relationships, bodies and sexuality in ways suited to their needs
- Receive information and support around sexual health, contraception and screening
- Be protected from abuse, exploitation and discrimination
- Make choices about marriage, civil partnerships, living arrangements and parenthood
- Expect privacy, confidentiality and respect
Consent and capacity
Orpheus follows the Mental Capacity Act, which assumes capacity unless proven otherwise. Students are supported to make informed decisions and to communicate consent in ways that work for them.
Consent:
- Must be freely given
- Is decision‑specific
- Can be withdrawn at any time
Any sexual activity without consent, or where a person lacks capacity, is treated as a safeguarding matter and managed through the Safeguarding Policy.
Safeguarding and protection
Orpheus has a clear duty of care to protect students from abuse or exploitation. Staff are trained to recognise concerns, act promptly and follow safeguarding procedures, including external reporting where required.
Working with families and carers
We work sensitively and collaboratively with families and carers. While their views are respected, students’ rights and wishes are central. Where appropriate, advocates may be offered to support students to express their views and make choices.
Privacy and confidentiality
Students have the right to privacy in personal and sexual matters. Information is kept confidential unless there are concerns about safety, abuse, illegality or serious risk, in which case confidentiality cannot be maintained.
Professional boundaries
Staff must always behave professionally and respectfully.
It is a disciplinary offence and potentially illegal for any staff member to have a sexual or intimate relationship with a student. Power imbalances are recognised and strictly managed.
Education and support
Students are supported to access:
- Relationships and sex education tailored to their age and ability
- Sexual health advice, contraception and screening services
- Specialist support around pregnancy, parenting or termination where needed
Ongoing training is provided for staff, students and families to ensure understanding and safe practice.
