DABS Pathfinder Crime Prevention Notice~ a resource to consider utilising within your organisation

The Problem:

The failure to effectively deal with abuse incidents are ubiquitous within groups of every kind. Groups tend to prioritise their own reputations, and those of their individuals,

together with damage limitation, above the protection of victims. However, this only works if, or until the truth comes out and, it simply maintains the toxic culture where

abusers feel safe and can continue to thrive.

Bullies and abusers know of the temptations that exist within groups to cover up, to minimise and distort the truth when allegations are made. They use this to their

advantage.

A quote from just one of many inquiries:

"The protection of personal and institutional reputations above the protection of children was a frequent institutional reaction. Statutory agencies were not informed,

offenders were ‘moved on’ and there were failures by those in authority to thoroughly investigate allegations.”

From The report of the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse October 2022: https://www.iicsa.org.uk

Another part of the problem is that however good your internal processes are, and whatever assurances you give regarding anonymity, it still takes a great deal of

courage for anyone to report concerns. Too many people have had bad experiences, or if not, they have heard of them.

The Aim of the Notice:

The Notice is intended to be just one part of your group crime prevention approach.

We must accept that abuse will never be entirely erased but like many prevention-of-crime measures it is hoped that publication of the Notice at your premises will be

seen as a positive measure. As an added bonus, it may also act as a reassurance to members to know that your group is genuinely concerned about their safety and

wellbeing.

The Notice only contains information about the Lawful Rights that we all share.