ABOUT US
Safe Spoken is a volunteer-run safeguarding organisation dedicated to creating a supportive and safe environment within the spoken word community. Our mission is to address and elevate safeguarding practices, ensuring that all participants in poetry events feel protected and respected.
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Violence against women, girls, non binary people, and other marginalised genders is a pandemic of epic proportion. The stats are horrifying, and sadly women, non binary people, and other marginalised genders within the Spoken Word community are no less susceptible to those who perpetuate these crimes than anyone else.
Having carefully thought out protocols to follow should allegations of abuse and/or violent crimes be made gives those in positions of authority the option, and the ability to better safeguard women and girls; especially when allegations are made about members of staff, peers, and/or other members of the community.
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With no central/regulated body, no HR Department, and no Union, women, non binary people, and other marginalised genders who are a part of the Spoken Word community experiencing any form of violence or abuse have no direct line of reporting; and no central access point to information and services.
Safe Spoken aims to change this.
What We Do:
Safe Spoken develops and shares recommended safeguarding policies and resources tailored specifically for poetry promoters and community members. We work to increase awareness of safeguarding issues, promote inclusivity, and facilitate open dialogues about safety in the arts. Our initiatives include providing template safeguarding policies, reporting structures, and guidance on handling safeguarding concerns effectively.
How We Function:
Led by a team of dedicated volunteers, Safe Spoken operates on principles of community engagement and cooperation. We actively gather feedback from our community to refine our resources and practices, hosting forums and surveys to ensure we address the needs and concerns of those we serve. Our processes include a direct reporting system for individuals to voice their experiences and access necessary support. We are currently seeking pro-bono legal support to ensure our practices align with legal requirements and best practices in safeguarding.
Our primary goals are to:
1. Enhance Community Safety: Create a culture of safety within the poetry community where all feel empowered to speak up about concerns without fear of retribution.
2. Provide Resources: Offer accessible safeguarding materials and training to empower poetry promoters and community members in recognising and responding to issues of abuse and misconduct.
3. Foster Inclusivity: Ensure that our policies and practices champion inclusivity, allowing for a welcoming environment where diverse voices can thrive.
4. Promote Accountability: Encourage open communication about safety and accountability among community members to foster mutual support and vigilance.
Together, we strive to build a responsible and nurturing environment in the spoken word community, making it a safe and enriching space for all participants.
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