Whilst the University owes a duty of care to all its students, it also has a particular responsibility to safeguard vulnerable groups including the welfare of children (any individual under the age of eighteen) and vulnerable adults. This responsibility applies whether the individual is a student of the University or is otherwise under the care or supervision of University staff. Vulnerable individuals may be present on the University premises or under the supervision or direction of University staff in a wide number of circumstances including for example:
- University students under the age of eighteen
- Attending crèches
- Attending summer schools
- Using sports facilities
- Work experience placements or temporary employees
- Brought on site by parents during school holidays
- Living in halls over the holiday period (e.g. as part of school party)
- Attending open days as potential student applicants
- Attending interviews for admission to the University
- As subjects of academic research
- As visitors for any other reason
Children and vulnerable adults may be accompanied by a responsible adult, e.g. a teacher or parent, but in other circumstances they may be unaccompanied.
Ulster's Policy for the Protection of Children and Vulnerable Adults mainly focuses on the University’s care in relation to children, but where appropriate, the Policy will also apply to vulnerable adults, as defined under The Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups (Northern Ireland) Order 2007 (as amended by the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012).
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