CPQ Safeguarding Policy for Minors & Vulnerable Groups

1. Scope & Definitions

A minor is a person below the legal age of majority where the service is delivered. A vulnerable group includes adults with temporarily or permanently limited capacity to make informed decisions or protect themselves, according to reasonable assessment and local law.

2. Practice Requirements

• Guardian/legal representative consent before sessions with a minor.
• Documented safeguards for private digital channels.
• Document indicators of abuse/neglect without conducting an independent investigation.
• Avoid dual or exploitative relationships.

3. Local Escalation Pathway

1. Document the indicator neutrally.
2. Do not confront the suspected party or investigate independently.
3. Follow the competent safeguarding/emergency authority in the country of service according to local legal duties.
4. Inform the CPQ Ethics Committee where appropriate.
5. Time-stamp actions.

Important: CPQ does not impose one universal disclosure rule; legal duties vary by jurisdiction and appropriate legal/professional advice should be sought where safety and confidentiality conflict.

4. Practitioner Declaration

Practitioners working with minors or vulnerable groups sign a separate safeguarding acknowledgement reviewed at credential renewal.