South London Harriers

South London Harriers Safeguarding Children and Young People Policy

South London Harriers have a duty of care to safeguard all children involved in  sporting activities  from harm. All children have a right to protection, and the needs of disabled children and others who may be particularly vulnerable must be taken into account. South London Harriers will ensure the safety and protection of all children involved through adherence to the Child Protection guidelines adopted by South London Harriers

A child is defined as a person under the age of 18 (The Children Act 1989).
 

Policy aims

The aim of South London Harriers Child Protection Policy is to promote good practice:

·         South London Harriers have a duty of care towards our children and young people  Staff and volunteers will provide appropriate safety and protection whilst in the care of South London Harriers

·         We will allow all staff /volunteers to make informed and confident responses to specific child protection issues.

The first point of contact for staff, volunteers, parent’s children/young people where concerns about a children’s welfare, poor practice or abuse are identified

·         The first point of contact with the lead officer for safeguarding children Lorraine Hewett and Jo Hughes

·         Implement the organisation’s reporting and recording procedures

·         Maintain contact details for the local children’s social care department, the police and local safeguarding children board

·         Promote the organisation’s best practice guidance/code of conduct within the club

·         Sit on the club’s management committee

·         Ensure adherence to the organisations safeguarding children training

·         Ensure appropriate confidentiality is maintained

·         Promote anti-discriminatory practice

South London Harriers Coaches and volunteers involved in sport for young people have a great opportunity to be a positive role model and help build an individual’s confidence.

COACHES/VOLUNTEERS ARE EXPECTED TO:

1             

·         Ensure the safety of all children by careful supervision, proper pre-planning of coaching sessions, using safe methods at all times.

·         Consider the wellbeing and safety of participants before the development of performance.

·         Encourage and guide participants to accept responsibility for their own performance and behaviour.

·         Treat all young people equally and ensure they feel valued. Have no favourites.

·         Encourage all children not to discriminate on the grounds of religious beliefs, race, gender, social classes or lack of ability.

·         Not allow any rough or dangerous play, bullying, or the use of bad language or inappropriate behaviour.

·         Appreciate the efforts of all young people and not over-train the young people. Never exert undue influence over performers to obtain personal benefit or reward.

·         Be positive, approachable and offer praise to promote the objectives of the club at all times.

·         Not let any allegations of abuse of any kind to go unchallenged or unrecorded if appropriate. Incidents and accidents to be recorded in the club incident/accident book. Parents will be informed.

·         Report accidents or incidents of alleged abuse or poor practice to the designated person.

·         Administer minor first aid in the presence of others and where required refer more serious incidents to the club "first aider".

·         Have access to telephone for immediate contact to emergency services if required.

·         Foster team work to ensure the safety of youth members in their care.

·         Ensure the rights and responsibilities of youth members are enforced.

·         Not abuse members physically, emotionally or sexually.

·         Maintain confidentiality about sensitive information.

·         Respect and listen to the opinions of young people.

·         Take time to explain coaching techniques to ensure they are clearly understood.

·         Develop an appropriate working relationship with participants, based on mutual trust and respect.

·         Be a role model, displaying consistently high standard of behaviour and appearance (disciplined/committed/time keeping), remember children learn by example.

·         Refrain from smoking and consumption of alcohol during club activities or coaching sessions.

·         Never condone rule violations, rough play or the use of prohibited substances.

Coaches and Volunteers

·         Must Protect themselves from false accusation:

·         Must not spend excessive amounts of time alone with children away from others

·         Never  take children to their home

·         Do not administering First Aid involving the removing of children’s clothing unless in the presence of others.

·         Coaches must hold appropriate valid qualifications and insurance cover.

·         Make the sport/activity fun.

COACHES/VOLUNTEERS HAVE A RIGHT TO:

·         Access ongoing training and information on all aspects of leading/managing activities for youths, particularly on Safeguarding.

·         Support in the reporting of suspected abuse.

·         Access to professional support services.

·         Fair and equitable treatment by the governing body/club.

·         Be protected from abuse by children/youths, other adult members and parents.

·         Not to be left vulnerable when working with children.

EMERGENCY ACTION/FIRST AID

All coaches, leaders and members should be prepared with an action plan in the event of an emergency and be aware of our First Aid Procedures.

This will include:

Access to First Aid equipment

Telephone contact if the participant is a minor

·         All concerns should be discussed with your club welfare officer(Lorraine Hewett ) and reported in accordance with your national governing bodies (NGB) policy and procedures. If the welfare officer is not available, contact your sports NGB national lead child protection officer.

·         Keep written records of any poor practice or child protection and welfare related incidents, allegations or concerns. Record details of any actions taken and contact details of anyone who was either involved or a witness as appropriate.

·         Contact the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO)who will provide advice and guidance.