Safeguarding Policy

Policies

As a club affiliated to England Athletics we apply their policies as shown on their website.  In particular we want everybody who participates in our club to do so in a safe and fun environment. It is therefore important that we all apply best practice for the welfare of both Children and Adults. 

Children

Membership is open to anyone over 16 years old.  A child is anyone who has not reached their 18th birthday. The fact a child has reached 16 years of age, living independently or is in further education, is a member of the armed forces, is in hospital or in custody, does not change his or her status or entitlement to protection under the Children Act 1989.

Welfare Concerns

One of our committee is designated as the Welfare Officer and this is shown on our website. Concerns regarding a child or the behaviour of a club member or parent or carer should be reported to the Welfare Officer or, if this is not possible, to another member of the Committee. You should make a factual note of anything you have seen, heard or said.  You should inform the parent or carer of your concern unless you believe it would put the individual you are concerned about at risk.  It is important not to discuss the matter with others unnecessarily.  Clearly in the event of an immediate risk it may be appropriate to directly involve an appropriate authority such as Police, Ambulance or Social Services. 

Our volunteers are required to adopt and abide by UK Athletics Safeguarding Policy and Procedures, Codes of Conduct and the relevant grievance, investigatory and disciplinary procedures. Our run leaders have completed appropriate training and DBS checks. 

Best Practice

Best practice means:

• Being open and conducting all interactions with children in a public place and with appropriate consent. Maintaining an appropriate relationship with children.

• Challenging bullying, harassment, foul or provocative language or controlling behaviour. 

• Treating all members fairly, with respect and avoiding favouritism.

• Being friendly and open and ensuring that relationships are appropriate for someone in a position of power and trust.

• Avoiding unnecessary physical contact. In certain circumstances physical contact is perfectly acceptable and appropriate, as long as it is not intrusive or disturbing and consent for contact has been given by the individual and appropriate parental consent.