Understanding the risks

This NCVO guide is the first step in building a safer organisation, helping staff and volunteers understand the range of harm and abuse — including physical, sexual, emotional, psychological, neglect, radicalisation, discriminatory, and financial — that people within or connected to an organisation may experience. It covers safeguarding responsibilities relating to children (under 18), adults at risk, staff, and volunteers, and highlights that risk is not fixed but changes with circumstances. The guide also addresses digital safeguarding considerations, the importance of respecting adult autonomy and mental capacity, and signposts to further resources from NSPCC Learning, Ann Craft Trust, DigiSafe, and Citizens Advice. It does not itself provide detailed procedural guidance, but directs readers to relevant tools for each area.