Safeguarding Vulnerable Individuals
Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. It's the action we take to promote the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and protect them from harm. As drivers, you’re in a good position to spot the signs that someone might need help.
That’s why we have partnered with Barnardo’s to develop a film to help us all understand the part we can play in safeguarding. Click here to take the training and learn how to make a difference and ensure every trip is a safe trip.
Remaining Curious
It’s important to always remain curious - this will help us spot the signs that someone might need help. Sometimes we might see or hear things that are signs of abuse
Neglect
Victims might look upset, confused, scared or tired. They also might not be dressed suitably for the climate or time of day and be alone.
Physical Abuse
Victims might look scared, intimidated or upset. They might have been hit or physically assaulted, you might hear or see them being threatened.
Emotional Abuse
Victims might look intimidated and upset, you might hear them being called names.
Child Sexual Exploitation
This is a form of child abuse. It occurs when anyone under the age of 18 is persuaded, coerced or forced into sexual activity in exchange for something. Sometimes it may appear the young person is involved voluntarily but they do need to be protected. You may spot the signs that there is an unusual pattern of drop offs or pick ups. You may notice the journey had been paid for by an adult that is not their family member.
Barnardo's & Uber safeguarding training
Uber UK has partnered with Barnardo’s to develop a film to help us all understand the part we can play in safeguarding. Watch bellow to take the training and learn how to make a difference and ensure every trip is a safe trip.
What should you do
If you think someone is in immediate danger then call the police on 999 as soon as you can safely do so. If someone is not in immediate danger but you have concerns about their safety then you need to call the police on 101 and pass on what you have seen or heard.
Remember to always:
- Be professional and always show respect
- Be aware of how your actions might be interpreted by others
- Don’t put yourself at risk
- Report your concerns to Uber support
- Don’t physically touch a passenger
Remember TRIP:
T = Tell someone if you are worried about a passenger, their friend or a family member
R = Remember what has concerned you and write it down
I = Immediate danger, if you are concerned about the immediate safety of a passenger, their friend or family member call 999
P = Pass on concerns to 101 if not in immediate danger but you feel that something just isn’t right
Safeguarding victims of County Lines
Thousands of children and teenagers are being exploited by criminal gangs to carry drugs from urban areas to coastal and market towns. Many of these children travel between the city and rural towns in taxis or private hire vehicles in a criminal activity known as ‘county lines’. Children may make the whole journey between the city and rural town in a private hire vehicle or taxi, or else use one for part of the journey.
To help safeguard these vulnerable children and protect them from gangs, the Home Office, Uber and CrimeStoppers are working to increase awareness among of the signs to spot a potential victim.
What to look out for:
- Children and teenagers, normally 14-15 years old, but can be as young as 12 traveling long distances alone.
- They may be from another area of the country, so may not be familiar with the area you pick them up in (may look lost) and may have a distinct accent (eg. London).
- They may be traveling during school hours or unusual hours (e.g. late in the evening)
- An obvious relationship with controlling, older individuals
- Suspicion of self-harm, physical assault or unexplained injuries
- They receive texts or phone calls
What to do if you are concerned:
Report your concerns to CrimeStoppers.
Safety Resources for Drivers
Read more about safety resources that can potentially make a real difference and help make your community safer.
About
Explore
Opportunities by city