Safeguarding Policy
Neston Cricket Club
SAFEGUARDING AND PROTECTING YOUNG PEOPLE IN HOCKEY STATEMENT
Neston Cricket Club Hockey Section’s policy (Neston South Wirral) supports England Hockey’s Safeguarding and Protecting Young People in Hockey policy and is in accordance with the following:
Introduction
Neston South Wirral is committed to creating and maintaining a safe and positive environment for all young people involved in hockey. It accepts its responsibility to help safeguard the welfare of all young people and protect them from poor practice, abuse and bullying.
Every individual and organisation within the Hockey Family has a role and responsibility to help ensure the safety and welfare of young people. The Hockey Family is defined below.
Neston South Wirral as a provider of opportunities for young people in hockey accepts that we are required to fulfil our duty of care which means that we must do everything that can be reasonably expected of us to help safeguard and protect young people from any reasonably foreseeable harm.
Definitions:
Obligations under this policy:
Everyone within Neston South Wirral must act in accordance with:
- Anti-bullying
Neston South Wirral has in addition, adopted and implemented our own:
Everyone within Neston South Wirral must also:
England Hockey’s role:
As the national governing body, England Hockey will publicise and promote within hockey its Safeguarding Young People Policy, Procedures and Good Practice Guidance. It will also support its affiliated clubs and associations in adopting and implementing their own policies by producing template policies and procedures and through access to appropriate training and education opportunities.
England Hockey is committed to ensuring that concerns relating to the safety and welfare of young people in hockey are taken seriously and acted upon swiftly and appropriately. To achieve this, England Hockey has developed procedures for reporting concerns.
England Hockey recognises the roles and responsibilities of the statutory agencies in safeguarding young people and the responsibilities and expertise of the relevant agencies in determining whether young people have, or may have, been abused or otherwise harmed. England Hockey is committed to complying with the procedures of the Local Safeguarding Children Boards (LSCBs). Accordingly, England Hockey will work co-operatively with the relevant statutory agencies on matters relating to safeguarding young people and where England Hockey receives report of a concern, it will refer the matter to the relevant statutory agency where appropriate.
England Hockey is also committed to directly challenging conduct within hockey that is, or may be, harmful to young people. It may, therefore, instigate proceedings under its own Safeguarding and Protecting Young People Complaints and Disciplinary Regulations where concerns or complaints are raised (by sources internal or external to hockey) relating to the safety and welfare of young people. England Hockey will take action against any person or organisation within its jurisdiction whose conduct is found to have harmed a young person in hockey or whose conduct (within or outside hockey) poses or may pose a risk of harm to young people in hockey. England Hockey may also refer matters back to a club for resolution at club level where appropriate.
Neston South Wirral will follow England Hockey’s Reporting Procedures and will make all their members aware that they are subject to the above Regulations if there is a breach of the Policy.
General Safeguarding and Protecting Young People principles:
The practices and procedures within this policy and documentation are based on the principles contained within UK and international legislation and Government guidance and have been designed to complement Local Safeguarding Children Boards procedures and take the following into consideration:
Neston Cricket Club
Station Road, Parkgate, Cheshire. CH64 6QJ
Safeguarding of Children.
Child Protection and Complaints Policy
Revised March 2010 Final draft
Approved by Council 17.3.10
To be reviewed 20.3.13. (3yrs)
Rationale
“It is vital that we as coaches, teachers, clubs, or organisations understand our responsibilities to protect children and do the right thing.”
Sport can have an enormous positive effect on people, particularly children. Not only can regular activity maintain our health and well being, it can increase confidence, self-esteem, and develop us, mentally, physically and emotionally.
However, these positive effects are reversed if a child's sporting experiences are negative. Negative experiences can occur in a whole range of different ways and measurement must be put in place to prevent this happening in our clubs, facilities and schools. In addition to this, children may confide in you or a member of your club/organisation with some information of any kind of child abuse, or you may witness an incident.
It is vital that you as a coach, teacher, club, or organisation understand your responsibilities to protect that child and do the right thing.
NSPCC
CONTENTS
PART I - CHILD PROTECTION POLICY
Types of abuse and neglect and their recognition
Disclosures of abuse - What to do?
Flowchart - What happens next?
Good practice
Club Policy Statement
Club Checklist
CRB Disclosures
Conduct of Coaches
PART II – GUIDANCE
Named Child Protection
Responding to allegations against a member of staff / volunteer or another child / young person
Bullying
Vulnerability of some groups of children - care of disabled
children and young people
Changing policy in dressing rooms
Use of photographic, video recording, image recording and mobile
phone camera use
General Complaints/Incidents procedure
Useful contacts / websites
N.B.
Child Protection disclosure forms, risk assessment forms and CRB disclosure forms are available separately from the club CPO.
PART I - CHILD PROTECTION POLICY
TYPES OF ABUSE AND NEGLECT AND THEIR RECOGNITION
The four main categories of abuse are physical, sexual, emotional abuse and neglect. Bullying can also be a category of abuse. The abuse, or possible abuse, of a child/young person may come to your attention in a variety of ways. There may be aspects of the child’s/young person’s behaviour or presentation that lead you to suspect that they may be at risk. These possible signs should be shared with your Named Child Protection Person. They may then decide to refer the child/young person to care agencies for further enquiries to be made.
The possible signs of abuse/neglect include:
* Information given by the child/young person
* Information reported by a concerned adult
* Changes in the child’s/young person’s behaviour. For example, the child/young person suddenly becomes quiet, tearful, withdrawn or aggressive
* Loss of weight without a medical explanation
* Eating problems, for instance, overeating or loss of appetite
Physical Abuse
Physical abuse implies physically harmful action/inflicted injury directed against a child/young person. For example, hitting, shaking, squeezing, burning, biting, bruises, burns, head injuries, fractures, abdominal injuries or poisoning. In sports this could mean forcing /young person to train beyond their capabilities. Some possible signs of physical abuse: Unexplained injuries, for example, bruising, bite marks, burns and fractures, particularly if recurrent. Improbable explanations given for injuries. Several different explanations provided for an injury. Refusal to discuss injuries. Untreated injuries. Withdrawal from physical contact. Reluctance to use changing rooms.
Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse is any exploitation of children/young people for the sexual pleasure, gratification or profit of an adult or significantly older person. It includes obscene phone calls, indecent exposure, inappropriate or sexually explicit language, pornographic photographs, showing pornographic material, touching, fondling, oral and anal sex, masturbation, attempted intercourse or intercourse. In sports this could involve inappropriate photography/videoing for the sexual gratification of the viewer. Some possible signs of sexual abuse: Acting in a sexual way inappropriate to their age. Continual or excessive masturbation. Asking if you will keep a secret if they tell you. Unexplained sources of money, sweets or presents. Reluctance to changing for an activity. Chronic ailments such as stomach ache or headaches. Involving other children in sexual activity. Self-harm. These signs do not necessarily mean that a child has been abused. However if you are concerned about the welfare of a child you must report it. Do not assume that someone else will help the child. They might not.
Emotional Abuse
Emotional abuse includes verbal abuse, being constantly shouted at, threatened or taunted. In sports this could involve constant criticism, name-calling, ridicule, sarcasm, bullying, or unrealistic expectations of parents/carers/coaches over what a child/young person can achieve. Some possible signs of emotional abuse: Withdrawal Nervousness Aggressive behaviour Emotional abuse may be difficult to recognise as the signs are usually behavioural rather than physical. The manifestations of emotional abuse might also indicate the presence of other kinds of abuse.
Neglect
Neglect is when adults fail to meet a child’s/young person’s basic needs, like food or warm clothing. It also includes being left alone unsupervised, failure to protect from harm or danger, failure to ensure access to appropriate medical care or treatment and lack of love and affection. In sports this could be when a child’s/young person’s personal or intimate requirements are ignored, not ensuring children/young people are safe, or exposure to undo cold, heat or unnecessary risk of injury. Some possible signs of neglect: Constant hunger Poor personal hygiene Constant tiredness Poor state of clothing Untreated medical problems Compulsive eating Scavenging.
Bullying
Bullying is the abuse and/or intimidation by a person, people or an organisation against another or others. It may be a specific actor it may be institutional. It is an abuse of a perceived power relationship. The bully in sport can also be the parent/carer who pushes too hard or the coach who adopts a win at all costs philosophy. Children can also bully other children. Bullying may include verbal abuse and intimidation, acts of physical or sexual abuse and coercion. Whatever its form it is unacceptable within any club. It must be challenged and appropriately addressed. Some possible signs of bullying: Reluctance to attend activities previously enjoyed. Tearfulness, depression, erratic emotions, loss of concentration. Stomach aches, headaches, difficulty in sleeping, bed-wetting, bruising, cuts scratches, damaged clothing, bingeing on food, alcohol or cigarettes. Shortage of money, frequent loss of possessions. Asks for money or starts stealing (to pay bully/ies Drop in performance or standard of play.
All stage 1 complaints should at first be dealt with by the appropriate section CPO. Advice can be sought from the club CPO. Any stage 2 concern (a disclosure) must be raised immediately with the club CPO. For information and guidance on reporting levels please refer to this policy.
DISCLOSURES OF ABUSE – WHAT TO DO?
There are a number of reasons a person might need to report a concern:
in response to something a young person has said to you – a disclosure
in response to signs or suspicions of abuse
in response to allegations made against a member of staff or a volunteer
in response to allegations made about a parent, carer or someone not working within the sport
in response to bullying
in response to a breach of the Code of Ethics and Behaviour*
observation of inappropriate behaviour
in response to anything which makes a young person uncomfortable based on inappropriate behaviour of an adult or changes in behaviour of a young person
in response to behaviour being contrary to NCC safeguarding policy
Safeguarding
What to do in the case of a reportable incident (regardless of who you are or what section of the club you belong to).
If a child makes a disclosure of abuse the following actions are to be taken:
* React calmly so as not to frighten or deter the child / young person
* Listen carefully to what the child / young person tells you without interrupting and take it seriously
* Ask questions for clarification only. Avoid asking questions that suggest a particular answer
* Do not stop a child / young person who is freely recalling significant events. Allow them to continue at their own pace.
* Acknowledge how difficult it might have been for them to share this with you
* Reassure them that they have done the right thing in telling
* Tell the child / young person that they are not to blame
* Never promise a child / young person that what they told you can be kept a secret. Explain to the child / young person that you have a responsibility for their safety and therefore have to tell somebody in authority. Let them know that there are others who can help them and that they are not alone
* Tell them what you will do next and with whom the information will be shared
* Ensure the safety of the child / young person
* As soon as possible take care to record in writing what was said using the child’s own words. Record the date, time, setting, any names mentioned, to whom the information was given and other people present. Sign and date the record
* Record any subsequent events and actions
* It is not your responsibility to decide if a child has been abused. Any disclosure must be raised with the Named Child Protection Person (Andy Beddard) and followed through appropriately.
A child may recall former abuse once in a safe situation. Although they may be under no current threat to their safety, any disclosure must be raised with the Named Child Protection Person and followed through appropriately.
You may also have concerns about a child’s welfare where there has not been any disclosure or allegation. In the best interests of the child / young person, these concerns should be raised with the Named Child Protection Person and followed through appropriately.
GOOD PRACTICE
The following guidelines should be followed:
* Treat all children and young people equally, with respect and dignity
* Put the welfare of the child first, before winning or achieving goals
* Make the Club safe, fun, enjoyable and promote fair play
* Give enthusiastic and constructive feedback
* Adopt a Child Protection Policy (Professional body) and actively promote it to all staff, volunteers, parents / carers, children and young people
* Display the Club Policy Statement
* Ensure all staff and volunteers are carefully selected and Criminal Records Bureau checked. (Please refer to ISCB’s Good Practice and Safer Recruitment Guidelines for guidance)
* All staff and volunteers must have access to training
* Ensure that any videoing or photography of the children/young people is pre-arranged with the Club Organiser and requests are put in writing
* Avoid situations where you may be alone with a child and are completely unobserved
* Avoid taking children/young people on car journeys as a lone adult.
* Do not allow any physically rough or sexually provocative games or inappropriate talking or touching during any activity
* All physical interactions between adults and children must be appropriate to the situation. If physical contact needs to be made, for example, supporting a child/young person during a particular movement, the staff member should always explain what they are going to do and why beforehand. Physical contact should be minimised and ceased as soon as it is safe to do so.
CLUB POLICY STATEMENT
Neston Cricket Club is committed to creating and maintaining the safest possible environment for children and young people to play sport.
We do this by:
* Recognising that all children have the right to freedom from abuse and harm
* Ensuring that all our staff and volunteers are carefully selected and vetted, have the relevant qualifications and experience, and accept responsibility for helping to prevent the abuse of children in their care
* Responding quickly and appropriately to all suspicions or allegations of abuse
* Providing parents/carers, children and young people with the opportunity to voice any concerns they may have
* Adopting disciplinary measures and sanctions which are non-violent and do not impose humiliation
* Appointing a Named Child Protection Officer(s) who take/s specific responsibility for children’s and young people’s protection, safety and well-being
* Reviewing the effectiveness of the Club’s Child Protection Policy and Procedures
* Working with external agencies, for example, NCC’s Council, Children’s Social Services, police, to ensure, as far as is possible, that children and young people are protected
* Not tolerating bullying. Incidents of bullying will be investigated and treated seriously.
Action will be taken to stop the bullying.
CLUB CHECKLIST
Does our club / facility have the following ?
A child protection policy which all staff and volunteers are
aware of?
A named child protection person for dealing with concerns or allegations
of abuse?
A rigorous recruitment , selection, supervision and monitoring process for staff and volunteers?
A written code of conduct and behaviour which outlines good practice
when working with children and young people?
A written complaints and disciplinary procedure?
A whistleblowing policy?
Information for children, young people and parents/carers about the
child protection policy and where to go for help?
A well-publicised anti-bullying policy?
A child protection training plan for staff and volunteers?
Procedures for making sure that the safeguards that are put in place
are working?
Clear guidance on confidentiality?
A protective culture that puts children’s interests first?
NAMED CHILD PROTECTION PERSON
All organisations need to identify one person to be responsible for dealing with allegations or suspicions of abuse. Having a Named Child Protection Person will ensure that there is an informed point of contact in your club who can manage and advise on child protection issues. Everyone in the organisation should know who Named Child Protection Person is and how to contact them.
It is not the role of the Named Child Protection Person to decide whether a child has been abused or not. This is the task of Children’s Social Services who have the legal responsibility. But it is the responsibility of the Named Child Protection Person to ensure that concerns are shared and appropriate action taken.
The names of the clubs section CPO’s are clearly displayed on the section noticeboards.
As of writing this policy the overall club CPO is Andy Beddard 07711 942971
Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) Disclosures
It is important that CRB Disclosures are carried out on anyone that may come into contact with children before we employ them, paid or voluntary.
CRB disclosures should be held by each member and copies held by each section of the club. CRB disclosures should be renewed every 5 years.
Code of Conduct for Coaches
Coaches play a crucial role in the development of any sport and in the lives of children that they coach. Good coaches ensure that young people in sport have positive experiences and are therefore more likely to continue pursuance of their sport and achieve their true potential.
Coaches at all levels must display a high degree of honesty, integrity and competence. The need for coaches to understand and act on their responsibilities is of critical importance to sport, as is the need to protect the key concept of participation for fun and enjoyment as well as achievement.
All coaches should adhere to the rules and regulations laid out in their Sport's National Governing Body's Code of Conduct. Contact your National Governing Body for further information.
RESPONDING TO ALLEGATIONS AGAINST A MEMBER OF STAFF / VOLUNTEER OR ANOTHER CHILD / YOUNG PERSON
* as with any allegation of abuse, this information must be passed on to the named child protection person. If the allegation is against the Named Child Protection Person concerns should be reported to a senior staff member and / or the relevant governing body for advice on how to proceed
* Fully support and protect any staff / volunteer who in good faith (without malicious intent) reports their concerns about a colleague’s practice, or the possibility that a child / young person may be being abused. Staff / volunteers should be able to raise concerns confidentially if necessary
* Ensure the safety of the child / young person
BULLYING
Bullying is not always easy to define but includes:
* Deliberate hurtful behaviour, hostility and aggression towards a victim
* A victim who will often be weaker and less powerful than the bully or bullies
* An outcome which is always painful and distressing for the victim
* Physical: pushing, kicking, hitting, pinching, poking or any other form of physical contact which is harmful to the victim, theft
* verbal: name-calling, sarcasm, spreading rumours, persistent teasing, swearing
* Emotional: including, tormenting, ridicule, humiliation, isolation, sending hurtful text messages
* emotional and verbal bullying can be more difficult to cope with or prove than physical bullying
* Racist: racial taunts, gestures, graffiti
* Sexual: unwanted physical contact, abusive sexual comments, sexual innuendos, graffiti
* Homophobic: taunts, teasing about the victim’s sexuality, gestures, spreading rumours, sexual innuendos, unwanted physical contact, graffiti
* Disability: taunts, gestures, graffiti, unwanted physical contact, teasing about the victim’s disability
Actions to prevent bullying:
* take all signs of bullying very seriously
* encourage children to speak and share their concerns
* have a clear anti-bullying policy to which staff, volunteers, parents / carers, children / young people sign up to
* improve supervision
* hold Club discussions on bullying
If bullying occurs the club will:
* take the problem seriously
* investigate it
* talk to the bullies and victims separately
* decide on appropriate action
Responding to suspected bullying:
* Help the victim speak out
* Take action to ensure the victim is safe
* inform parents / carers of victim
* hold a follow-up meeting with the victim and their families to report progress
* talk to the bully to see if the allegation has any foundation, ideally not one-to-one
* try to get the bully/ies to see the consequences of their behaviour
* support / encourage bullies to change behaviour
* obtain an apology from bully/ies to victim
* inform parents / carers of the bully/ies
* insist on the return or replacement of any items ‘borrowed’, stolen or destroyed
* impose appropriate sanctions against bully/ies in consultation with the parents / carers. These may result in the bully/ies being asked to leave the Club
* hold a follow-up meeting with the bully/ies and their families to report progress
* provide support to coaches of bullies and victims
* inform relevant members of the Club about the incident and any action taken
* keep a written record of incidents and action taken
* report any concerns to the Named Child Protection Person
VULNERABILITY OF SOME GROUPS OF CHILDREN - CARE OF DISABLED CHILDREN / YOUNG PEOPLE
* Discuss and agree with parent / carer and child / young person the care they require and the physical contact that is necessary for them to participate in the activity
* Communicate with the child / young person about what you are doing and give choices where possible, particularly if you are involved in dressing / undressing outer clothing or if lifting / assisting a disabled child / young person
* Avoid taking on the responsibility of tasks for which you are not appropriately trained
CHANGING POLICY IN DRESSING ROOMS
* If children / young people need to share changing facilities with adults:
• the Club must have consent from parents / carers that their child can share a changing room with adults in the Club if the child is under 18
• their parents must be allowed to supervise them whilst they are changing if they so wish
* Adults should not change or shower at the same time as the children / young people using the same facility
* Children / young people should be supervised at all times in the changing rooms by 2 members of staff / volunteers
* If any child / young person is uncomfortable changing or showering in public no pressure should be placed on them to do so. In this instance, encourage them to change or shower at home
* If the activity is mixed gender, separate facilities should be made available
USE OF PHOTOGRAPHIC, VIDEO RECORDING, IMAGE RECORDING AND MOBILE PHONE CAMERA USE
It is not the intention to prevent parents / carers from taking pictures, but to ensure that photographic practices are monitored and to reduce the risks of inappropriate photography / filming.
c No one is permitted to photograph or record images in the following areas:
• changing areas
• toilet areas
* Participants and parents / carers must be informed when a photographer will be attending an event
* Permission will only be granted after the Event Registration Form is completed
* Photographers will be required to have formal identification which must be worn at all times
* Children’s / young people’s images will not be used for promotional or press releases unless parents / carers have consented
* Unsupervised access to participants or one-to-one photo sessions are prohibited
* Photo sessions outside the event or at a participant’s home are not allowed
* Personal details which might make a child / young person vulnerable, for example, address, email address, phone number, should never be revealed
* Any concerns regarding inappropriate or intrusive photography / filming reported to, or observed by, the event organiser must be followed up by them with the person in question. If concerns persist this person can be requested to leave the event.
* Use of video equipment is a legitimate coaching aid. Participants and parents / carers should be made aware that this is part of the coaching programme. Care must be taken in the storing of these films
General Complaints procedure
(Not disclosures/concerns of abuse)
*Please note, when the procedure refers to ‘Parent’ it includes all other forms of legal Guardian/Carer.
Statement of intent
We believe that children and parents are entitled to expect courtesy and prompt, careful attention to their needs and wishes.
We welcome suggestions on how to improve our Child Protection procedures and we anticipate that most concerns will be resolved quickly by an informal approach to the appropriate member of staff. If this does not achieve the desired result, we have a set of procedures for dealing with concerns.
Aim
We aim to bring all concerns/complaints regarding the safeguarding of children to a swift and satisfactory conclusion through the application of a rigorous complaints procedure.
Methods
To achieve this, we operate the following complaints procedure. All settings are required to keep records of all complaints that reach stage 2 or beyond.
Stage 1: Verbal Complaint
It is recommended that anyone who has a general complaint talks
over their worries and anxieties with their child’s coach, Captain, leader, section Chair or club CPO.
Most complaints should be resolved amicably and informally at this stage.
Stage 2: Written Formal Complaint and Investigation
If an issue is not resolved satisfactorily or the problem recurs:
Parents should put their concerns or complaint in writing to the Section Chair and club CPO. For parents who are not comfortable with making written complaints, there is a template form available.
At this stage of the complaint, all communication and information relevant to any investigation should be directed to the CPO. The CPO will handle the complaint from this stage.
When the investigation into the complaint is completed, the CPO meets with the parent to discuss the outcome and any further action needed.
If the complaint is resolved at this stage, the summative points are logged in the CPO’s records.
If the parent is not satisfied with the outcome of the investigation, he or she requests a meeting with the Club at which point the matter may be referred to an outside body.
Stage 3: External Investigation
If a complaint cannot be resolved at Stage 2, parents will be advised to contact the relevant professional body (LTA,ECB,NHL etc) to seek advice. If necessary, the Police and/or Social services should be contacted.
Whistleblowing
If a member of NCC or a parent wishes to complain about another member, coach or child to the Child Protection Officer they are entitled to do so. Confidentiality will be maintained and they will also be protected in this event. The procedure from Stage 2 above will be followed.
USEFUL CONTACTS / WEBSITES
Children’s Social Services
Emergency Duty Team, Information and Assessment Officers, 020 7226 0992 or 020 7527 7400
For advice, ask to speak to the Duty Child Protection Co-ordinator, 020 7527 8102
Police
Child Abuse Investigation Team, 2 Tolpuddle Street, London N1 0YY, 020 7421 0291
National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC)
Weston House, 42 Curtain Road, London EC2 3NH, 020 7825 2775
www. nspcc.org.uk
Child Protection in Sport Unit (England)
NSPCC National Training Centre, 3 Gilmour Close, Beaumont Leys, Leicester LE4 1EZ
0116 234 7200
www.sportprojects.org.uk
Neston Cricket Club – Child Protection Officer
Andy Beddard 0151 353 0584, 07711 942971
Cricket Section Andy Crick
Tennis Section Jo Race
Hockey Section Sue Stewart
Squash Section Nick Mason
Contacts for parents, carers, children and clubs
ChildLine
Free helpline for children and young people to talk about any problem
0800 1111
http://www.childline.org.uk
Parentline Plus
Free helpline offering support and information on parenting issues
0808 800 2222
www.parentlineplus.org.uk
Useful Websites
www.ecb.co.uk/ecb/child-welfare
www.englandhockey.co.uk/core_files/fileDownload(312).pdf
www.englandsquash.com
www.lta.org.uk/InsideTheLta/ChildProtection
Neston Cricket Club
SAFEGUARDING REFERRAL FORM
Your club/organisation’s name
Your details
First name:
Surname:
Position in club/organisation:
Home address:
POST CODE:
Daytime phone number:
Evening phone number:
Email address:
Young person’s details
First name:
Surname:
Parent/legal guardian’s name:
Date of birth:
Male or female:
Home address:
POST CODE:
Does the young person have a disability? If so, please give details:
TICK
TICK
White British
Asian or Asian British – Pakistani
White Irish
Asian or Asian British – Bangladeshi
White Other
Asian or Asian British – Other
Mixed – White and Black Caribbean
Black or Black British – Caribbean
Mixed – White and Black African
Black or Black British – African
Mixed – White and Asian
Black or Black British – Other
Mixed – Other
Chinese
Asian or Asian British - Indian
Other Ethnic Group
Details of the accused/adult whose behaviour you have concerns about
First name:
Surname:
Position in sport (e.g. coach, official)
Home address:
POST CODE:
Phone number:
Date of birth:
Are you reporting your concerns or passing on those of somebody else? (please give details)
Please give a brief description of what has prompted these concerns
Please include dates, times, venue etc of any specific incidents
Have you spoken to the young person(s)?
If so, please give details of what was said and when
Have you spoken to the parent/carer of the young person(s) involved?
If so, please give details of what was said and when
What is the relationship between the young person and the accused?
Action taken so far
Please continue of a separate sheet if necessary
External agencies contacted so far
Organisation
Y/N
If yes, which?
Name & Number
Date & Time
Details of advice rec’d
England Hockey
Police
Chidren’s Social Care Dept (Social Services)
Other (e.g. NSPCC)
Signed:
Print Name:
Date:
Remember to maintain confidentiality on a need to know basis. Only disclose information if it will protect the child. Do not discuss this incident with anyone other than those who need to know.
THIS FORM SHOULD BE RETURNED TO:
(Please mark your envelope CONFIDENTIAL), England Hockey Child Welfare Officer,
England Hockey, National Hockey Stadium, Silbury Boulevard, Milton Keynes, MK9 1HA
Neston Cricket Club
- ■ Hockey Section
- ■ Hockey Section
- (Neston South Wirral)
SAFEGUARDING AND PROTECTING YOUNG PEOPLE IN HOCKEY STATEMENT
Neston Cricket Club Hockey Section’s policy (Neston South Wirral) supports England Hockey’s Safeguarding and Protecting Young People in Hockey policy and is in accordance with the following:
Introduction
Neston South Wirral is committed to creating and maintaining a safe and positive environment for all young people involved in hockey. It accepts its responsibility to help safeguard the welfare of all young people and protect them from poor practice, abuse and bullying.
Every individual and organisation within the Hockey Family has a role and responsibility to help ensure the safety and welfare of young people. The Hockey Family is defined below.
Neston South Wirral as a provider of opportunities for young people in hockey accepts that we are required to fulfil our duty of care which means that we must do everything that can be reasonably expected of us to help safeguard and protect young people from any reasonably foreseeable harm.
Definitions:
- •Hockey Family all individuals, clubs, associations, and other organisations involved in any capacity in the game of hockey, and whether or not members of England Hockey. For the avoidance of doubt, this includes all players and anyone working within hockey (in a paid or voluntary capacity, and whether as an employee or on a self-employed or other work basis) including all coaches, umpires, referees and other officials.
Obligations under this policy:
Everyone within Neston South Wirral must act in accordance with:
- •the general principles set out in this policy; and
- •the principles set out in the good practice document:
- • - The recruitment of persons working with young people
- Anti-bullying
- • - Taking and use of photographic and recorded images of young people;
Neston South Wirral has in addition, adopted and implemented our own:
- •Safeguarding and Protecting Young People (or Child Protection) policy which complies with the general principles set out in this policy; and
Everyone within Neston South Wirral must also:
- •Abide by England Hockey’s Code of Ethics which specifies conduct in relation to the safeguarding of young people within hockey among other issues
- •Follow England Hockey reporting procedures where there are concerns relating to the safety or welfare of young people
- •Abide by England Hockey’s Code of Ethics which specifies conduct in relation to the safeguarding of young people within hockey among other issues
-
England Hockey’s role:
As the national governing body, England Hockey will publicise and promote within hockey its Safeguarding Young People Policy, Procedures and Good Practice Guidance. It will also support its affiliated clubs and associations in adopting and implementing their own policies by producing template policies and procedures and through access to appropriate training and education opportunities.
England Hockey is committed to ensuring that concerns relating to the safety and welfare of young people in hockey are taken seriously and acted upon swiftly and appropriately. To achieve this, England Hockey has developed procedures for reporting concerns.
England Hockey recognises the roles and responsibilities of the statutory agencies in safeguarding young people and the responsibilities and expertise of the relevant agencies in determining whether young people have, or may have, been abused or otherwise harmed. England Hockey is committed to complying with the procedures of the Local Safeguarding Children Boards (LSCBs). Accordingly, England Hockey will work co-operatively with the relevant statutory agencies on matters relating to safeguarding young people and where England Hockey receives report of a concern, it will refer the matter to the relevant statutory agency where appropriate.
England Hockey is also committed to directly challenging conduct within hockey that is, or may be, harmful to young people. It may, therefore, instigate proceedings under its own Safeguarding and Protecting Young People Complaints and Disciplinary Regulations where concerns or complaints are raised (by sources internal or external to hockey) relating to the safety and welfare of young people. England Hockey will take action against any person or organisation within its jurisdiction whose conduct is found to have harmed a young person in hockey or whose conduct (within or outside hockey) poses or may pose a risk of harm to young people in hockey. England Hockey may also refer matters back to a club for resolution at club level where appropriate.
Neston South Wirral will follow England Hockey’s Reporting Procedures and will make all their members aware that they are subject to the above Regulations if there is a breach of the Policy.
General Safeguarding and Protecting Young People principles:
- •The safety and welfare of young people is paramount.
- •All young people, regardless of age, ability, sex, race, religion or belief, ethnic origin, social status or sexual orientation have the right to be protected from harm.
- •The rights, dignity and worth of all young people should always be respected.
- •Neston South Wirral wishes to promote a telling culture. Everyone within hockey must therefore report all concerns in accordance with England Hockey’s reporting procedures.
- •It is the responsibility of child protection experts to determine whether or not abuse has taken place, but it is everyone in hockey’s responsibility to report concerns,
- •The roles and responsibilities of the statutory agencies in safeguarding young people must be recognised and the procedures of the Local Safeguarding Children Boards must be complied with.
- •Any policy or procedure is only as effective as the ability and skill of those who operate it.
- •Neston South Wirral is committed to encouraging, and everyone within hockey must recognise and regard as essential, the effective and safe recruitment of all individuals working with young people in hockey.
- •All those working in hockey, in a paid or voluntary capacity, must abide by England Hockey’s Code of Ethics.
The practices and procedures within this policy and documentation are based on the principles contained within UK and international legislation and Government guidance and have been designed to complement Local Safeguarding Children Boards procedures and take the following into consideration:
- •The Children Acts 1989 and 2004
- •The Protection of Children Act 1999
- •The Police Act 1997
- •The Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974
- •Criminal Justices and Court Services Act 2000
- •The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child
- •Human Rights Act 1998
- •The Data Protection Act 1998
- •“Caring for the young and vulnerable” Home Office guidance for preventing the abuse of trust 1999
- •“What to do if you are Worried a Child is being Abused” DOH 2006
- •
“Working Together to Safeguard Children” 2006, HM Government
Neston Cricket Club
Station Road, Parkgate, Cheshire. CH64 6QJ
Safeguarding of Children.
Child Protection and Complaints Policy
Revised March 2010 Final draft
Approved by Council 17.3.10
To be reviewed 20.3.13. (3yrs)
Rationale
“It is vital that we as coaches, teachers, clubs, or organisations understand our responsibilities to protect children and do the right thing.”
Sport can have an enormous positive effect on people, particularly children. Not only can regular activity maintain our health and well being, it can increase confidence, self-esteem, and develop us, mentally, physically and emotionally.
However, these positive effects are reversed if a child's sporting experiences are negative. Negative experiences can occur in a whole range of different ways and measurement must be put in place to prevent this happening in our clubs, facilities and schools. In addition to this, children may confide in you or a member of your club/organisation with some information of any kind of child abuse, or you may witness an incident.
It is vital that you as a coach, teacher, club, or organisation understand your responsibilities to protect that child and do the right thing.
NSPCC
CONTENTS
PART I - CHILD PROTECTION POLICY
Types of abuse and neglect and their recognition
Disclosures of abuse - What to do?
Flowchart - What happens next?
Good practice
Club Policy Statement
Club Checklist
CRB Disclosures
Conduct of Coaches
PART II – GUIDANCE
Named Child Protection
Responding to allegations against a member of staff / volunteer or another child / young person
Bullying
Vulnerability of some groups of children - care of disabled
children and young people
Changing policy in dressing rooms
Use of photographic, video recording, image recording and mobile
phone camera use
General Complaints/Incidents procedure
Useful contacts / websites
N.B.
Child Protection disclosure forms, risk assessment forms and CRB disclosure forms are available separately from the club CPO.
PART I - CHILD PROTECTION POLICY
TYPES OF ABUSE AND NEGLECT AND THEIR RECOGNITION
The four main categories of abuse are physical, sexual, emotional abuse and neglect. Bullying can also be a category of abuse. The abuse, or possible abuse, of a child/young person may come to your attention in a variety of ways. There may be aspects of the child’s/young person’s behaviour or presentation that lead you to suspect that they may be at risk. These possible signs should be shared with your Named Child Protection Person. They may then decide to refer the child/young person to care agencies for further enquiries to be made.
The possible signs of abuse/neglect include:
* Information given by the child/young person
* Information reported by a concerned adult
* Changes in the child’s/young person’s behaviour. For example, the child/young person suddenly becomes quiet, tearful, withdrawn or aggressive
* Loss of weight without a medical explanation
* Eating problems, for instance, overeating or loss of appetite
Physical Abuse
Physical abuse implies physically harmful action/inflicted injury directed against a child/young person. For example, hitting, shaking, squeezing, burning, biting, bruises, burns, head injuries, fractures, abdominal injuries or poisoning. In sports this could mean forcing /young person to train beyond their capabilities. Some possible signs of physical abuse: Unexplained injuries, for example, bruising, bite marks, burns and fractures, particularly if recurrent. Improbable explanations given for injuries. Several different explanations provided for an injury. Refusal to discuss injuries. Untreated injuries. Withdrawal from physical contact. Reluctance to use changing rooms.
Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse is any exploitation of children/young people for the sexual pleasure, gratification or profit of an adult or significantly older person. It includes obscene phone calls, indecent exposure, inappropriate or sexually explicit language, pornographic photographs, showing pornographic material, touching, fondling, oral and anal sex, masturbation, attempted intercourse or intercourse. In sports this could involve inappropriate photography/videoing for the sexual gratification of the viewer. Some possible signs of sexual abuse: Acting in a sexual way inappropriate to their age. Continual or excessive masturbation. Asking if you will keep a secret if they tell you. Unexplained sources of money, sweets or presents. Reluctance to changing for an activity. Chronic ailments such as stomach ache or headaches. Involving other children in sexual activity. Self-harm. These signs do not necessarily mean that a child has been abused. However if you are concerned about the welfare of a child you must report it. Do not assume that someone else will help the child. They might not.
Emotional Abuse
Emotional abuse includes verbal abuse, being constantly shouted at, threatened or taunted. In sports this could involve constant criticism, name-calling, ridicule, sarcasm, bullying, or unrealistic expectations of parents/carers/coaches over what a child/young person can achieve. Some possible signs of emotional abuse: Withdrawal Nervousness Aggressive behaviour Emotional abuse may be difficult to recognise as the signs are usually behavioural rather than physical. The manifestations of emotional abuse might also indicate the presence of other kinds of abuse.
Neglect
Neglect is when adults fail to meet a child’s/young person’s basic needs, like food or warm clothing. It also includes being left alone unsupervised, failure to protect from harm or danger, failure to ensure access to appropriate medical care or treatment and lack of love and affection. In sports this could be when a child’s/young person’s personal or intimate requirements are ignored, not ensuring children/young people are safe, or exposure to undo cold, heat or unnecessary risk of injury. Some possible signs of neglect: Constant hunger Poor personal hygiene Constant tiredness Poor state of clothing Untreated medical problems Compulsive eating Scavenging.
Bullying
Bullying is the abuse and/or intimidation by a person, people or an organisation against another or others. It may be a specific actor it may be institutional. It is an abuse of a perceived power relationship. The bully in sport can also be the parent/carer who pushes too hard or the coach who adopts a win at all costs philosophy. Children can also bully other children. Bullying may include verbal abuse and intimidation, acts of physical or sexual abuse and coercion. Whatever its form it is unacceptable within any club. It must be challenged and appropriately addressed. Some possible signs of bullying: Reluctance to attend activities previously enjoyed. Tearfulness, depression, erratic emotions, loss of concentration. Stomach aches, headaches, difficulty in sleeping, bed-wetting, bruising, cuts scratches, damaged clothing, bingeing on food, alcohol or cigarettes. Shortage of money, frequent loss of possessions. Asks for money or starts stealing (to pay bully/ies Drop in performance or standard of play.
All stage 1 complaints should at first be dealt with by the appropriate section CPO. Advice can be sought from the club CPO. Any stage 2 concern (a disclosure) must be raised immediately with the club CPO. For information and guidance on reporting levels please refer to this policy.
DISCLOSURES OF ABUSE – WHAT TO DO?
There are a number of reasons a person might need to report a concern:
in response to something a young person has said to you – a disclosure
in response to signs or suspicions of abuse
in response to allegations made against a member of staff or a volunteer
in response to allegations made about a parent, carer or someone not working within the sport
in response to bullying
in response to a breach of the Code of Ethics and Behaviour*
observation of inappropriate behaviour
in response to anything which makes a young person uncomfortable based on inappropriate behaviour of an adult or changes in behaviour of a young person
in response to behaviour being contrary to NCC safeguarding policy
Safeguarding
What to do in the case of a reportable incident (regardless of who you are or what section of the club you belong to).
- 1.Report the incident to your section CPO. If that is not possible, contact the club CPO (Andy Beddard: 07711942971, 0151 353 0584 ). Note the date, time and any other important details.
- 1.Always report, never hesitate.
- 1.If you are the section CPO and you are not completely comfortable with dealing with a reported incident, inform the club CPO and/or your governing body or your LSCB
- 1.Follow the guidelines for disclosures as set out in the policy document
If a child makes a disclosure of abuse the following actions are to be taken:
* React calmly so as not to frighten or deter the child / young person
* Listen carefully to what the child / young person tells you without interrupting and take it seriously
* Ask questions for clarification only. Avoid asking questions that suggest a particular answer
* Do not stop a child / young person who is freely recalling significant events. Allow them to continue at their own pace.
* Acknowledge how difficult it might have been for them to share this with you
* Reassure them that they have done the right thing in telling
* Tell the child / young person that they are not to blame
* Never promise a child / young person that what they told you can be kept a secret. Explain to the child / young person that you have a responsibility for their safety and therefore have to tell somebody in authority. Let them know that there are others who can help them and that they are not alone
* Tell them what you will do next and with whom the information will be shared
* Ensure the safety of the child / young person
* As soon as possible take care to record in writing what was said using the child’s own words. Record the date, time, setting, any names mentioned, to whom the information was given and other people present. Sign and date the record
* Record any subsequent events and actions
* It is not your responsibility to decide if a child has been abused. Any disclosure must be raised with the Named Child Protection Person (Andy Beddard) and followed through appropriately.
A child may recall former abuse once in a safe situation. Although they may be under no current threat to their safety, any disclosure must be raised with the Named Child Protection Person and followed through appropriately.
You may also have concerns about a child’s welfare where there has not been any disclosure or allegation. In the best interests of the child / young person, these concerns should be raised with the Named Child Protection Person and followed through appropriately.
GOOD PRACTICE
The following guidelines should be followed:
* Treat all children and young people equally, with respect and dignity
* Put the welfare of the child first, before winning or achieving goals
* Make the Club safe, fun, enjoyable and promote fair play
* Give enthusiastic and constructive feedback
* Adopt a Child Protection Policy (Professional body) and actively promote it to all staff, volunteers, parents / carers, children and young people
* Display the Club Policy Statement
* Ensure all staff and volunteers are carefully selected and Criminal Records Bureau checked. (Please refer to ISCB’s Good Practice and Safer Recruitment Guidelines for guidance)
* All staff and volunteers must have access to training
* Ensure that any videoing or photography of the children/young people is pre-arranged with the Club Organiser and requests are put in writing
* Avoid situations where you may be alone with a child and are completely unobserved
* Avoid taking children/young people on car journeys as a lone adult.
* Do not allow any physically rough or sexually provocative games or inappropriate talking or touching during any activity
* All physical interactions between adults and children must be appropriate to the situation. If physical contact needs to be made, for example, supporting a child/young person during a particular movement, the staff member should always explain what they are going to do and why beforehand. Physical contact should be minimised and ceased as soon as it is safe to do so.
CLUB POLICY STATEMENT
Neston Cricket Club is committed to creating and maintaining the safest possible environment for children and young people to play sport.
We do this by:
* Recognising that all children have the right to freedom from abuse and harm
* Ensuring that all our staff and volunteers are carefully selected and vetted, have the relevant qualifications and experience, and accept responsibility for helping to prevent the abuse of children in their care
* Responding quickly and appropriately to all suspicions or allegations of abuse
* Providing parents/carers, children and young people with the opportunity to voice any concerns they may have
* Adopting disciplinary measures and sanctions which are non-violent and do not impose humiliation
* Appointing a Named Child Protection Officer(s) who take/s specific responsibility for children’s and young people’s protection, safety and well-being
* Reviewing the effectiveness of the Club’s Child Protection Policy and Procedures
* Working with external agencies, for example, NCC’s Council, Children’s Social Services, police, to ensure, as far as is possible, that children and young people are protected
* Not tolerating bullying. Incidents of bullying will be investigated and treated seriously.
Action will be taken to stop the bullying.
CLUB CHECKLIST
Does our club / facility have the following ?
A child protection policy which all staff and volunteers are
aware of?
A named child protection person for dealing with concerns or allegations
of abuse?
A rigorous recruitment , selection, supervision and monitoring process for staff and volunteers?
A written code of conduct and behaviour which outlines good practice
when working with children and young people?
A written complaints and disciplinary procedure?
A whistleblowing policy?
Information for children, young people and parents/carers about the
child protection policy and where to go for help?
A well-publicised anti-bullying policy?
A child protection training plan for staff and volunteers?
Procedures for making sure that the safeguards that are put in place
are working?
Clear guidance on confidentiality?
A protective culture that puts children’s interests first?
NAMED CHILD PROTECTION PERSON
All organisations need to identify one person to be responsible for dealing with allegations or suspicions of abuse. Having a Named Child Protection Person will ensure that there is an informed point of contact in your club who can manage and advise on child protection issues. Everyone in the organisation should know who Named Child Protection Person is and how to contact them.
It is not the role of the Named Child Protection Person to decide whether a child has been abused or not. This is the task of Children’s Social Services who have the legal responsibility. But it is the responsibility of the Named Child Protection Person to ensure that concerns are shared and appropriate action taken.
The names of the clubs section CPO’s are clearly displayed on the section noticeboards.
As of writing this policy the overall club CPO is Andy Beddard 07711 942971
Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) Disclosures
It is important that CRB Disclosures are carried out on anyone that may come into contact with children before we employ them, paid or voluntary.
CRB disclosures should be held by each member and copies held by each section of the club. CRB disclosures should be renewed every 5 years.
Code of Conduct for Coaches
Coaches play a crucial role in the development of any sport and in the lives of children that they coach. Good coaches ensure that young people in sport have positive experiences and are therefore more likely to continue pursuance of their sport and achieve their true potential.
Coaches at all levels must display a high degree of honesty, integrity and competence. The need for coaches to understand and act on their responsibilities is of critical importance to sport, as is the need to protect the key concept of participation for fun and enjoyment as well as achievement.
All coaches should adhere to the rules and regulations laid out in their Sport's National Governing Body's Code of Conduct. Contact your National Governing Body for further information.
RESPONDING TO ALLEGATIONS AGAINST A MEMBER OF STAFF / VOLUNTEER OR ANOTHER CHILD / YOUNG PERSON
* as with any allegation of abuse, this information must be passed on to the named child protection person. If the allegation is against the Named Child Protection Person concerns should be reported to a senior staff member and / or the relevant governing body for advice on how to proceed
* Fully support and protect any staff / volunteer who in good faith (without malicious intent) reports their concerns about a colleague’s practice, or the possibility that a child / young person may be being abused. Staff / volunteers should be able to raise concerns confidentially if necessary
* Ensure the safety of the child / young person
BULLYING
Bullying is not always easy to define but includes:
* Deliberate hurtful behaviour, hostility and aggression towards a victim
* A victim who will often be weaker and less powerful than the bully or bullies
* An outcome which is always painful and distressing for the victim
* Physical: pushing, kicking, hitting, pinching, poking or any other form of physical contact which is harmful to the victim, theft
* verbal: name-calling, sarcasm, spreading rumours, persistent teasing, swearing
* Emotional: including, tormenting, ridicule, humiliation, isolation, sending hurtful text messages
* emotional and verbal bullying can be more difficult to cope with or prove than physical bullying
* Racist: racial taunts, gestures, graffiti
* Sexual: unwanted physical contact, abusive sexual comments, sexual innuendos, graffiti
* Homophobic: taunts, teasing about the victim’s sexuality, gestures, spreading rumours, sexual innuendos, unwanted physical contact, graffiti
* Disability: taunts, gestures, graffiti, unwanted physical contact, teasing about the victim’s disability
Actions to prevent bullying:
* take all signs of bullying very seriously
* encourage children to speak and share their concerns
* have a clear anti-bullying policy to which staff, volunteers, parents / carers, children / young people sign up to
* improve supervision
* hold Club discussions on bullying
If bullying occurs the club will:
* take the problem seriously
* investigate it
* talk to the bullies and victims separately
* decide on appropriate action
Responding to suspected bullying:
* Help the victim speak out
* Take action to ensure the victim is safe
* inform parents / carers of victim
* hold a follow-up meeting with the victim and their families to report progress
* talk to the bully to see if the allegation has any foundation, ideally not one-to-one
* try to get the bully/ies to see the consequences of their behaviour
* support / encourage bullies to change behaviour
* obtain an apology from bully/ies to victim
* inform parents / carers of the bully/ies
* insist on the return or replacement of any items ‘borrowed’, stolen or destroyed
* impose appropriate sanctions against bully/ies in consultation with the parents / carers. These may result in the bully/ies being asked to leave the Club
* hold a follow-up meeting with the bully/ies and their families to report progress
* provide support to coaches of bullies and victims
* inform relevant members of the Club about the incident and any action taken
* keep a written record of incidents and action taken
* report any concerns to the Named Child Protection Person
VULNERABILITY OF SOME GROUPS OF CHILDREN - CARE OF DISABLED CHILDREN / YOUNG PEOPLE
* Discuss and agree with parent / carer and child / young person the care they require and the physical contact that is necessary for them to participate in the activity
* Communicate with the child / young person about what you are doing and give choices where possible, particularly if you are involved in dressing / undressing outer clothing or if lifting / assisting a disabled child / young person
* Avoid taking on the responsibility of tasks for which you are not appropriately trained
CHANGING POLICY IN DRESSING ROOMS
* If children / young people need to share changing facilities with adults:
• the Club must have consent from parents / carers that their child can share a changing room with adults in the Club if the child is under 18
• their parents must be allowed to supervise them whilst they are changing if they so wish
* Adults should not change or shower at the same time as the children / young people using the same facility
* Children / young people should be supervised at all times in the changing rooms by 2 members of staff / volunteers
* If any child / young person is uncomfortable changing or showering in public no pressure should be placed on them to do so. In this instance, encourage them to change or shower at home
* If the activity is mixed gender, separate facilities should be made available
USE OF PHOTOGRAPHIC, VIDEO RECORDING, IMAGE RECORDING AND MOBILE PHONE CAMERA USE
It is not the intention to prevent parents / carers from taking pictures, but to ensure that photographic practices are monitored and to reduce the risks of inappropriate photography / filming.
c No one is permitted to photograph or record images in the following areas:
• changing areas
• toilet areas
* Participants and parents / carers must be informed when a photographer will be attending an event
* Permission will only be granted after the Event Registration Form is completed
* Photographers will be required to have formal identification which must be worn at all times
* Children’s / young people’s images will not be used for promotional or press releases unless parents / carers have consented
* Unsupervised access to participants or one-to-one photo sessions are prohibited
* Photo sessions outside the event or at a participant’s home are not allowed
* Personal details which might make a child / young person vulnerable, for example, address, email address, phone number, should never be revealed
* Any concerns regarding inappropriate or intrusive photography / filming reported to, or observed by, the event organiser must be followed up by them with the person in question. If concerns persist this person can be requested to leave the event.
* Use of video equipment is a legitimate coaching aid. Participants and parents / carers should be made aware that this is part of the coaching programme. Care must be taken in the storing of these films
General Complaints procedure
(Not disclosures/concerns of abuse)
*Please note, when the procedure refers to ‘Parent’ it includes all other forms of legal Guardian/Carer.
Statement of intent
We believe that children and parents are entitled to expect courtesy and prompt, careful attention to their needs and wishes.
We welcome suggestions on how to improve our Child Protection procedures and we anticipate that most concerns will be resolved quickly by an informal approach to the appropriate member of staff. If this does not achieve the desired result, we have a set of procedures for dealing with concerns.
Aim
We aim to bring all concerns/complaints regarding the safeguarding of children to a swift and satisfactory conclusion through the application of a rigorous complaints procedure.
Methods
To achieve this, we operate the following complaints procedure. All settings are required to keep records of all complaints that reach stage 2 or beyond.
Stage 1: Verbal Complaint
It is recommended that anyone who has a general complaint talks
over their worries and anxieties with their child’s coach, Captain, leader, section Chair or club CPO.
Most complaints should be resolved amicably and informally at this stage.
Stage 2: Written Formal Complaint and Investigation
If an issue is not resolved satisfactorily or the problem recurs:
Parents should put their concerns or complaint in writing to the Section Chair and club CPO. For parents who are not comfortable with making written complaints, there is a template form available.
At this stage of the complaint, all communication and information relevant to any investigation should be directed to the CPO. The CPO will handle the complaint from this stage.
When the investigation into the complaint is completed, the CPO meets with the parent to discuss the outcome and any further action needed.
If the complaint is resolved at this stage, the summative points are logged in the CPO’s records.
If the parent is not satisfied with the outcome of the investigation, he or she requests a meeting with the Club at which point the matter may be referred to an outside body.
Stage 3: External Investigation
If a complaint cannot be resolved at Stage 2, parents will be advised to contact the relevant professional body (LTA,ECB,NHL etc) to seek advice. If necessary, the Police and/or Social services should be contacted.
Whistleblowing
If a member of NCC or a parent wishes to complain about another member, coach or child to the Child Protection Officer they are entitled to do so. Confidentiality will be maintained and they will also be protected in this event. The procedure from Stage 2 above will be followed.
USEFUL CONTACTS / WEBSITES
Children’s Social Services
Emergency Duty Team, Information and Assessment Officers, 020 7226 0992 or 020 7527 7400
For advice, ask to speak to the Duty Child Protection Co-ordinator, 020 7527 8102
Police
Child Abuse Investigation Team, 2 Tolpuddle Street, London N1 0YY, 020 7421 0291
National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC)
Weston House, 42 Curtain Road, London EC2 3NH, 020 7825 2775
www. nspcc.org.uk
Child Protection in Sport Unit (England)
NSPCC National Training Centre, 3 Gilmour Close, Beaumont Leys, Leicester LE4 1EZ
0116 234 7200
www.sportprojects.org.uk
Neston Cricket Club – Child Protection Officer
Andy Beddard 0151 353 0584, 07711 942971
Cricket Section Andy Crick
Tennis Section Jo Race
Hockey Section Sue Stewart
Squash Section Nick Mason
Contacts for parents, carers, children and clubs
ChildLine
Free helpline for children and young people to talk about any problem
0800 1111
http://www.childline.org.uk
Parentline Plus
Free helpline offering support and information on parenting issues
0808 800 2222
www.parentlineplus.org.uk
Useful Websites
www.ecb.co.uk/ecb/child-welfare
www.englandhockey.co.uk/core_files/fileDownload(312).pdf
www.englandsquash.com
www.lta.org.uk/InsideTheLta/ChildProtection
Neston Cricket Club
- ■ Hockey Section
- ■ Hockey Section
- (Neston South Wirral)
SAFEGUARDING REFERRAL FORM
Your club/organisation’s name
Your details
First name:
Surname:
Position in club/organisation:
Home address:
POST CODE:
Daytime phone number:
Evening phone number:
Email address:
Young person’s details
First name:
Surname:
Parent/legal guardian’s name:
Date of birth:
Male or female:
Home address:
POST CODE:
Does the young person have a disability? If so, please give details:
TICK
TICK
White British
Asian or Asian British – Pakistani
White Irish
Asian or Asian British – Bangladeshi
White Other
Asian or Asian British – Other
Mixed – White and Black Caribbean
Black or Black British – Caribbean
Mixed – White and Black African
Black or Black British – African
Mixed – White and Asian
Black or Black British – Other
Mixed – Other
Chinese
Asian or Asian British - Indian
Other Ethnic Group
Details of the accused/adult whose behaviour you have concerns about
First name:
Surname:
Position in sport (e.g. coach, official)
Home address:
POST CODE:
Phone number:
Date of birth:
Are you reporting your concerns or passing on those of somebody else? (please give details)
Please give a brief description of what has prompted these concerns
Please include dates, times, venue etc of any specific incidents
Have you spoken to the young person(s)?
If so, please give details of what was said and when
Have you spoken to the parent/carer of the young person(s) involved?
If so, please give details of what was said and when
What is the relationship between the young person and the accused?
Action taken so far
Please continue of a separate sheet if necessary
External agencies contacted so far
Organisation
Y/N
If yes, which?
Name & Number
Date & Time
Details of advice rec’d
England Hockey
Police
Chidren’s Social Care Dept (Social Services)
Other (e.g. NSPCC)
Signed:
Print Name:
Date:
Remember to maintain confidentiality on a need to know basis. Only disclose information if it will protect the child. Do not discuss this incident with anyone other than those who need to know.
THIS FORM SHOULD BE RETURNED TO:
(Please mark your envelope CONFIDENTIAL), England Hockey Child Welfare Officer,
England Hockey, National Hockey Stadium, Silbury Boulevard, Milton Keynes, MK9 1HA
