VULNERABLE PERSONS POLICY

Purpose

At General and Travel Investigations Limited (GTI), we recognise that every person has their own intrinsic worth, or mana, and that their wellbeing, or mauri, should be protected and upheld. We acknowledge that some individuals face challenges that may impact their ability to engage fully in interactions and processes. This policy ensures that we identify, support, and protect those who may be vulnerable, enabling them to access our services and participate in our processes fairly and with dignity. It also sets out clear guidelines for identifying, reporting, and responding to potential abuse or neglect.

Scope of the Policy

This policy applies to all employees and contractors representing and its partners, who interact with members of the public while carrying out their duties.

Key Principles

  • Proactively identify and address potential risks to vulnerable individuals while upholding their mana.

  • Treat all individuals with respect and dignity, ensuring that their mauri (wellbeing) is nurtured.

  • Ensure all potential vulnerabilities are considered during interactions and that appropriate safeguards are implemented to support the individual. 

  • Mandatory reporting of suspected abuse or neglect to the instructing agency, and/or appropriate authorities, while ensuring culturally appropriate processes are followed.

  • Maintain detailed records of all concerns, assessments, actions taken, and communications.

Definition of a Vulnerable Person

A Vulnerable Person is someone who may be disadvantaged or require additional support due to:

  • An intellectual or physical disability

  • Mental illness

  • Financial hardship

  • Domestic or family violence

  • Homelessness

  • Language barriers (English not being their primary language)

  • Literacy issues

  • Age (i.e., minors and elderly individuals)

  • Remote location

  • Cultural background

  • Cognitive impairment

Identifying a Vulnerable Person

Our employees and contractors should remain vigilant for signs that a person may be in a vulnerable situation. A person may be identified as vulnerable at any stage of interaction based on:

  • Information contained in client instructions or documents obtained during investigations (e.g., medical or police reports).

  • Observations made during direct interaction with the individual.

  • Information provided by a representative, guardian, or support person.

  • Direct disclosure from the person themselves.

  • Changes in behaviour, physical appearance, or wellbeing.

Recognizing someone as vulnerable does not affect our obligation to act impartially, but it may require a flexible approach to accommodate their specific needs.

Reporting Procedures

  • If a person is in immediate danger, call emergency services immediately.

  • Report concerns to the Instructing Agency using the secure, confidential reporting lines. 

  • In cases of suspected abuse or neglect, report concerns to relevant external agencies such as Oranga Tamariki or the Police.

Supporting Vulnerable People

The type of assistance required will depend on the nature of the person’s vulnerability. Support measures may include:

  • Informing the person of their right to have a support person, advocate, or kaumātua present and facilitating this where possible.

  • Ensuring that an appropriate adult is present when dealing with minors.

  • Arranging for assistance, such as accredited interpreters or cultural liaisons.

  • Offering flexible arrangements for interviews, including video conferencing for those in remote locations.

  • Our employees may discuss other options with the vulnerable person to determine the most appropriate form of support.

Staff Training and Awareness

  • All staff must complete training on identifying and responding to vulnerable persons.

  • Training should cover relevant legislation, reporting procedures, and best practices for supporting vulnerable individuals.

Confidentiality

  • All information related to vulnerable individuals must be treated with the utmost confidentiality, adhering to privacy laws and respecting cultural sensitivities.

  • While considering the above, maintain detailed records of all concerns, assessments, actions taken, and communications.

Implementing the Policy

Implementation of this policy is the responsibility of the Director.

GTI will implement this policy by:

  • Providing awareness training to employees and contractors who are likely to interact with vulnerable individuals.

  • Ensuring employees and contractors understand their responsibilities under this policy.

  • Developing and maintaining procedures that employees and contractors must follow when dealing with vulnerable persons.

  • Regularly review and update the policy to reflect changes in legislation and best practices.

  • Monitor the effectiveness of reporting and response mechanisms.

The aim of these procedures is to ensure that vulnerable individuals interacting with GTI and its representatives are treated with dignity and respect, with their mana upheld and their mauri nurtured.

Approved by: Brook Ballantyne
Published: 1st Feb 2025