Child Safeguarding Policy
For Soul Sports Kids Club
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At Soul Sports Kids Club, we are fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and young people involved in our activities. We believe every child has the right to grow up in a safe, caring environment free from harm, neglect, and exploitation.
This safeguarding policy outlines the procedures and practices we follow to protect children in accordance with UK legislation, including the Children Act 1989 and 2004, Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018), and guidance from the NSPCC and the Child Protection in Sport Unit (CPSU).
Safeguarding Principles
1. Zero Tolerance for Harm
We will not tolerate any form of abuse or neglect. Our staff, volunteers, and partners are dedicated to ensuring that children and young people are safeguarded from physical, emotional, sexual abuse, or neglect.
2. Children’s Rights
Every child has the right to be protected from harm, to feel safe, and to be treated with respect and dignity. We aim to create an inclusive and supportive environment where every child is valued.
Safeguarding Procedures
1. Recruitment and Selection of Staff and Volunteers
We follow strict recruitment processes to ensure that all staff and volunteers working with children are suitable for their roles. This includes:
- Background checks and verification of qualifications.
- Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks.
- Face-to-face interviews, where safeguarding awareness is assessed.
- Ongoing training and supervision of all staff and volunteers to maintain high standards of safeguarding.
2. Responding to Concerns or Allegations
- Recognizing Signs of Harm: All staff and volunteers are trained to recognize the signs of abuse and harm, including physical, emotional, sexual abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
- Raising a Concern: If a concern is raised about the welfare of a child, it is crucial that this is reported immediately. Concerns can be raised to any staff member, coach, or safeguarding officer in confidence.
- Reporting Procedures: Our designated safeguarding officer is the primary contact for all concerns and will ensure that any issues are addressed swiftly. In cases of serious harm or suspicion of abuse, concerns will be reported to external agencies such as children’s social care or the police.
3. Handling Allegations Against Staff or Volunteers
If an allegation is made against a member of staff or volunteer:
- It will be taken seriously and investigated thoroughly.
- The individual may be suspended during the investigation to ensure the safety of children.
- We will work closely with relevant authorities to ensure that appropriate actions are taken.
Minimizing Risk to Children
1. Risk Assessment
We regularly assess our activities, facilities, and procedures to identify and mitigate any risks to children’s safety. Special consideration is given to activities that involve physical contact, travel, or the use of social media.
2. Safe Environment
The facilities that we operate in are designed to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for children. Staff members are always present, and no child is left unsupervised at any time.
Awareness and Training
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1. Training and Education
All staff and volunteers receive regular training on child protection and safeguarding procedures, including how to recognize and respond to concerns. We also encourage ongoing discussions and learning to improve our safeguarding practices.
2. Communication and Awareness
We ensure that all members of our organization, including children and their families, are aware of our safeguarding policy. Clear communication channels are established so that any child or parent can raise concerns comfortably.
Conclusion
Safeguarding is a shared responsibility. We are committed to creating a safe environment where children and young people can enjoy sports, learn, and grow without fear of harm. Our safeguarding policy will be reviewed regularly to ensure it meets best practices and the evolving needs of our community.
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Soul Sports Kids Club Management
Date: 1st September 2024
Safeguarding Officer: Alex Tromp
E: alexandre@ztromp.com