Purley Bowls Club

PURLEY BOWLS CLUB - SAFEGUARDING & CHILD PROTECTION

Purley Bowls Club has considered its responsibilities to the young people participating in bowls at our premises and within our club very carefully, and has produced the following Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy and underpinning procedures, in order to set out the standards we wish to uphold in providing activities for children and safeguarding the welfare of children in our care.

Purley Bowls Club affiliates to the National Governing Body and the Club recognises the policies of their Governing Body, as set in out in the “Safeguarding Bowls Guidelines”.

1.   Policy Statement

Purley Bowls Club acknowledges its duty of care to safeguard the welfare of all young people (defined as those under 18) involved in bowls within the club. All young people have a right to protection, and have their particular needs taken into account.

Purley Bowls Club will therefore endeavour to ensure the safety and protection of all young people involved with the club through the Child Protection guidelines adopted by the Management Committee of the club. It is the responsibility of all adults within the club to assist the Management Committee in this endeavour.

2.   Policy Aims

·         To provide young people with appropriate safety and protection whilst in the care of the club and also help them to enjoy their experience of the sport of bowls.

·         To reassure parents that their children will receive the best practicable care possible whilst participating in activities within the club.

·         To provide support to club members and volunteers to make informed and confident responses to specific child protection issues and to fulfil their role effectively.

3.   Principles

·         The welfare of young people is paramount.

·         All young people, whatever their age, culture, disability, gender, language, ethnic origin and religious beliefs have the right to protection from abuse.

·         All suspicions and allegations of abuse and poor practice will be taken seriously and responded to swiftly and appropriately.

·         All staff and volunteers working in bowls have a responsibility to report concerns to their Club Welfare Officer.

·         Adults – club members, volunteers, coaches, referees and members will be supported to understand their role and responsibility with regard to the duty of care and protection of young people by the club and the National Governing Body.