Introduction
Somerset Youth Angling Club (“The Club”) is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all its members, especially children and young people. This Safeguarding Policy outlines our responsibilities, procedures, and commitment to protecting junior members from harm, abuse, and exploitation.

1. Key Principles

• The welfare of children and young people is paramount.
• All children, regardless of age, gender, ability, race, religion, or background, have the right to protection from harm.
• Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.
• Any concerns regarding safeguarding will be taken seriously, reported, and addressed appropriately.

2. Scope of the Policy

• This policy applies to:
• All junior members of The Club.
• Parents, guardians, and carers of junior members.
• Volunteers, coaches, and staff involved in The Club’s activities.
• Any third parties or visitors participating in Club events.

3. Responsibilities
3.1 The Committee
The Committee is responsible for:

• Ensuring this policy is reviewed and updated annually.
• Providing appropriate safeguarding training for all volunteers and coaches.
• Appointing a designated Welfare Officer to oversee safeguarding matters.

3.2 The Welfare Officer
The Welfare Officer will:

• Act as the main point of contact for safeguarding concerns.
• Ensure all safeguarding procedures are followed.
• Maintain confidential records of concerns and actions taken.
• Liaise with external agencies, such as social services or the police, when necessary.

3.3 Volunteers and Coaches
All volunteers and coaches must:

• Adhere to this Safeguarding Policy and complete relevant training.
• Report any safeguarding concerns to the Welfare Officer.
• Avoid situations where they are alone with a child, whenever possible.

3.4 Parents and Guardians
Parents and guardians are encouraged to:

• Support The Club’s safeguarding measures.
• Communicate any concerns about their child’s safety or well-being to the Welfare Officer.

4. Safeguarding Procedures
4.1 Recruitment of Volunteers

• All volunteers and coaches must complete a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
• References will be sought for all new volunteers.
• Volunteers will undergo an induction, including safeguarding training.

4.2 Reporting Concerns

• Any safeguarding concerns must be reported to the Welfare Officer as soon as possible.

The Welfare Officer will:

• Record the concern accurately and confidentially.
• Take immediate action if a child is at risk of harm.
• Liaise with external agencies when necessary.

4.3 Responding to Disclosures
If a child discloses abuse or harm:

• Listen carefully without interrupting or making judgments.
• Reassure the child that they have done the right thing by speaking up.
• Avoid asking leading questions; use open-ended prompts like, “Can you tell me more?”
• Report the disclosure to the Welfare Officer immediately.

5. Code of Conduct
All members and volunteers must:

• Treat children and young people with respect and dignity.
• Avoid physical contact, except where necessary for safety.
• Refrain from using inappropriate language or behavior.
• Follow all health and safety guidelines to ensure a safe environment.

6. Training and Awareness

• All volunteers and coaches must complete safeguarding training every two years.
• The Club will provide resources and updates to ensure all members are aware of their safeguarding responsibilities.

7. Monitoring and Review

• This policy will be reviewed annually by the Committee.
• Feedback from members and parents will be considered in the review process.

8. Contact Information
Welfare Officer Contact: Kay Pamplin
Phone: 07778 127 170
Email: [email protected]
In emergencies, contact:
NSPCC Helpline: 0808 800 5000
Local Social Services: 0300 123 2224
Police (non-emergency): 101