When concerns arise around conduct, whistleblowing, safeguarding, grievances or disciplinary matters, it can place organisations under huge pressure. These situations are rarely straightforward. They’re often sensitive, emotionally charged and difficult to navigate, particularly when people and reputations are involved. Getting the investigation right really matters – for individuals, for teams and for the organisation as a whole.
At About Safeguarding, we provide independent investigations when things feel complicated, high‑risk or simply too close to manage internally. All of our investigations are carried out by former senior police officers, including ex‑Chief Inspectors and experienced Detectives, who bring decades of specialist investigative experience. They approach every case with calm professionalism, objectivity and a strong focus on evidence.
We’re very aware that behind every investigation is a real situation affecting real people. Leaders are often carrying worry, responsibility and pressure, while teams may feel anxious or unsettled. That’s why our approach is always independent, impartial and fair. We communicate clearly throughout the process, apply consistent structure and ensure decisions are grounded in evidence, not assumption or emotion.
Many organisations turn to external investigators when issues are particularly complex, sensitive or high‑stakes. Bringing in experienced, independent specialists provides clarity, credibility and reassurance. It protects your people, strengthens your processes and gives confidence that the matter has been handled properly. Most leaders hope they’ll never need this kind of support – but when they do, having the right people alongside them makes all the difference.
Before joining the team, Ian served 30 years with Kent Police, retiring in 2024 as a Detective Chief Inspector. During his career, he was the Senior Investigating Officer for numerous serious and complex crimes. He specialised in safeguarding vulnerable adults and children and was the strategic lead for Child Protection, Domestic Violence, and Stalking.
While working within the Public Protection Department, Ian was the Senior Officer responsible for the Kent Central Referral Unit and the Medway Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub. He has extensive experience in multi-agency work and has contributed to a large number of Serious Case Reviews.
Anne-Marie has recently retired after 30 years working in the police, predominantly as a detective and safeguarding specialist. She has largely worked in the field of investigation within Child Abuse, Domestic Abuse, Sexual Abuse and Vulnerable Adults. With years of investigations and multi-agency working, she has also has extensive criminal/family court experience. Anne-Marie has received judge’s commendations and holds a master’s degree in advanced child protection.
Anne-Marie holds a QA level three award in Education and Training and, for the last three years oh her policing career taught police officers in the areas of criminal investigations, safeguarding and interviewing.
Paul brings over 30 years of policing experience, the majority of which spent as a Detective and specialist in Investigative Interviewing. Most recently, he served as the Interview Advisor Training Lead for Kent Police, which involved providing strategic guidance to Senior Investigating Officers on conducting interviews with vulnerable witnesses, victims, and suspects in major crime investigations. His work has consistently focused on ensuring that interviews are ethically sound, trauma-informed, and legally robust, safeguarding the rights and wellbeing of those involved while securing reliable evidence.
Paul holds a Level 5 University Advanced Diploma in the Management and Co-ordination of Investigative Interviews and contribute regularly to professional publications on Investigation, Interviewing, and Digital Crime.
Need Independent Investigation Support?
If you are managing a concern now or simply want to understand how independent, external investigations work, we’re here to help.
We’re always happy to talk through your situation confidentially and without pressure.
Contact us today, via the contact form to your left, to discuss how we can support your organisation and promote a safe and positive environment for all.
About…Safeguarding is part of the About…Consulting group.