About Safe Haven – A Ray of Hope
Internal Risk Management Policy and Procedures
- Introduction
This policy outlines Safe Haven – A Ray of Hope’s approach to identifying, assessing, and managing risks to ensure effective governance, protect our beneficiaries and assets, and safeguard our charitable purpose.
- Purpose of the Policy
- To embed risk management into the charity’s culture and decision-making.
- To ensure that key risks are identified and mitigated appropriately.
- To protect the charity’s resources, reputation, and legal compliance.
- Scope
This policy applies to all activities, trustees, staff, volunteers, and operational areas of Safe Haven – A Ray of Hope.
- Definition of Risk
Risk is defined as the possibility of an event or action occurring that may have a negative impact on the charity’s ability to achieve its objectives or carry out its work safely and effectively.
- Roles and Responsibilities
- Trustees: Ultimately responsible for overseeing risk management and ensuring appropriate systems are in place.
- Senior Staff (if applicable): Responsible for implementing risk management in day-to-day operations.
- All Staff and Volunteers: Expected to be alert to risks and report concerns promptly.
- Risk Identification and Assessment
- Risks are identified through team meetings, audits, complaints, and incident reporting.
- Each risk is assessed for:
- Likelihood of occurrence (Low, Medium, High)
- Potential impact (Low, Medium, High)
- A Risk Register will be maintained and reviewed quarterly.
- Types of Risks Considered
- Governance and leadership
- Operational (including service delivery and safety)
- Financial (including fraud and funding issues)
- Compliance with laws and regulations
- Reputational and strategic risks
- Environmental and external factors
- Risk Mitigation Strategies
Each risk must have defined control measures, such as:
- Written procedures and policies
- Training and supervision
- Insurance cover
- Segregation of financial duties
- Emergency and continuity plans
- Monitoring and Reporting
- The Risk Register will be reviewed at least quarterly by the Board of Trustees.
- Significant risks or emerging issues must be reported at Board meetings.
- Actions taken to mitigate risks will be documented and monitored for effectiveness.
- Training and Awareness
All staff, volunteers, and trustees will receive basic risk management training appropriate to their role.
- Review of the Policy
This policy will be reviewed annually, or earlier if there is a significant change in operations, structure, or legal obligations.
Approved by:
Blessing Olalemi: May 30th
Kerry- Ann Batten: May 29
John Olalemi: May 30th
Last reviewed: May 30th 2025 | Next review: June 2026