The True Value of Safeguarding: Why Organisations Must Invest in Professional Expertise

In the world of safeguarding, one persistent issue has become glaringly evident: the expectation that safeguarding professionals and victim-survivors should offer their expertise for free or at a significantly reduced rate. This approach not only undermines the value of safeguarding but also sends a troubling message about an organisation's priorities.

When an organisation reviews its finances, it hires qualified accountants, recognising that their expertise is crucial for accurate and compliant financial management. Similarly, when developing strategic plans, organisations engage consultants and pay them accordingly to leverage their specialised knowledge for optimal outcomes. However, this same principle is often ignored when it comes to safeguarding.

The Hidden Cost of Free Expertise

Expecting safeguarding professionals and victim-survivors to offer their time and knowledge for free or at a low cost devalues their critical work. It perpetuates the misconception that safeguarding is less important than other professional services. This is a dangerous precedent. Safeguarding is not a luxury; it is a necessity for any organisation that interacts with vulnerable individuals.

The rationale behind requesting free or low-cost services is often rooted in the belief that those involved in safeguarding are passionate about their work and therefore willing to provide their services without adequate compensation. While the passion for protecting the vulnerable is undeniably a driving force for many in this field, it should not be exploited. Passion does not pay bills, nor does it replace the time and energy invested by these professionals.

Quality Comes at a Cost

To truly value safeguarding within your organisation, it is essential to budget for it appropriately. Quality safeguarding practices are born out of expertise, experience, and ongoing professional development, all of which require financial investment. When organisations attempt to cut corners by not adequately compensating safeguarding professionals, they risk compromising the quality and effectiveness of their safeguarding measures.

Investing in safeguarding sends a clear message: the safety and well-being of the individuals under your care are a top priority. This investment should be viewed as integral to the organisation's operations, much like legal or financial services.

Re-Evaluating Your Budget Priorities

When organisations claim they do not have the budget for safeguarding, it is crucial to scrutinise where the existing budget is being spent. Are funds allocated to other areas of governance or support? If so, why is safeguarding not given the same level of financial priority? This discrepancy needs to be addressed to foster a culture that genuinely values and upholds the principles of safeguarding.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

Organisations must reframe their approach to safeguarding. It is time to stop asking professionals and victim-survivors to offer their invaluable services for free or at a reduced rate. Instead, recognise the importance of their work and compensate them fairly. By doing so, you affirm that safeguarding is not just a box to be ticked but a fundamental aspect of your organisation's integrity and commitment to the safety of all individuals.

Let us build a future where safeguarding is rightly valued, appropriately funded, and effectively implemented. Because when we pay for quality, we get quality – and in safeguarding, quality can mean the difference between safety and harm.

Invest in safeguarding. Prioritise it. Value it. And most importantly, pay for it.