Safeguarding is part of every journey decision

Before duties are assigned

Appropriate checks must be completed before personnel are assigned to relevant passenger transport duties. The exact requirements depend on the role, passenger group, contract and applicable law or guidance.

• Identity and right-to-work checks
• Enhanced DBS checks where the role is eligible and requires them
• Driving licence and relevant private hire checks for drivers
• References, role suitability and training requirements
• Vehicle, insurance and licensing checks where applicable

Journey safeguards

Journey arrangements may include passenger profiles, risk information, authorised collection and handover details, communication needs and emergency contacts. Access to this information is limited to those who need it for their role.

Responding to concerns

Safety and safeguarding concerns must be recorded and escalated through the appropriate route. Immediate danger should always be reported to the emergency services.

• Incident and safeguarding concern reporting
• Missing passenger procedures
• Emergency and breakdown arrangements
• Lone-working controls
• Review, corrective action and learning

Shared responsibility

Safe delivery depends on accurate information from commissioners, schools, families and transport personnel. Material changes to passenger needs or journey arrangements should be communicated promptly.