Who this policy applies to
This policy applies to everyone who interacts with Orpheus, including:
- Students
- Parents, carers and family members
- Visitors and members of the public
- Contractors and transport providers
- Staff and volunteers
It applies to behaviour on site, off site and through any form of communication.
Our commitment
- Staff and volunteers have the right to carry out their roles without fear of abuse or intimidation
- Parents, carers and visitors have the right to be treated respectfully by staff
- Abuse or aggressive behaviour of any kind is not acceptable and will be addressed promptly
This policy supports Orpheus’s legal duties under health and safety, safeguarding and equality legislation.
What we mean by abuse
Abusive or unacceptable behaviour includes, but is not limited to:
- Verbal abuse, such as shouting, swearing, threats or discriminatory language
- Physical abuse, including pushing, hitting, spitting or throwing objects
- Harassment, including repeated or sustained behaviour intended to intimidate or distress
- Discrimination, relating to any protected characteristic under the Equality Act 2010
- Unreasonable behaviour, such as aggressive complaints, refusal to follow reasonable requests or excessive contact that disrupts normal operations
Where the policy applies
The policy covers behaviour:
- On Orpheus premises (including reception areas, classrooms and car parks)
- During off‑site activities, trips and placements
- In meetings, reviews or home visits
- Via phone calls, emails, letters, social media or other digital communications
- In the wider community where staff are carrying out their roles
Reporting concerns
All incidents of abuse or aggression must be reported immediately to:
- A member of the Senior Management Team, or
- A designated safeguarding lead
Reports will be taken seriously, recorded and investigated fairly. Anyone affected will be supported, and appropriate steps will be taken to ensure safety and wellbeing.
How Orpheus may respond
Depending on the seriousness of the behaviour, responses may include:
- Verbal or written warnings
- Restrictions on contact or access to staff or the site
- Meetings only by appointment or with mediation
- Removal from premises
- Involvement of the police or other authorities
- Permanent restriction or ban from contact with Orpheus
- As a last resort, termination of services or support
Any agreed arrangements for future communication will be approved by the CEO, Principal, Registered Manager or another senior leader.
Responsibilities
- Senior leaders are responsible for enforcing this policy and supporting staff
- Staff and volunteers are encouraged to report concerns and will be supported when they do
- All individuals interacting with Orpheus are expected to behave respectfully at all times
Review
This policy is reviewed every two years, or sooner if a serious incident occurs, to ensure it remains effective and appropriate.
