Safeguarding

The Club Welfare Officer is Karen Phillips

Karen can be contacted through the office or clicking Safeguarding.

Safeguarding Policy Statement

This policy refers to a child as anyone under the age of 18 as defined by the Children Act 1989 and an Adult at Risk as anyone aged 18 or over, who is in need of care or support, and who, because of those needs, is unable to always safeguard themselves as defined by the Care Act 2014.

Bosham Sailing Club (BSC) is committed to safeguarding all children, young people and adults at risk taking part in its activities from abuse and harm and ensuring their wellbeing. BSC recognises that the safety, welfare and needs of children, young people and adults at risk are paramount and that any person, irrespective of their age, disability, race, religion or belief, marital status, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation or social status, has a right to protection from discrimination, victimisation and abuse.

BSC takes all reasonable steps to ensure that, through safe recruitment, appropriate operating procedures, and training, it offers a safe and fun environment to everyone taking part in its events and activities. We recognise our legal duty of care to safeguard children, young people and adults at risk.

BSC is committed to minimising risk to deliver a safe, positive and fun boating experience for everyone by creating a welcoming environment, both on and off the water, where everyone can have fun and develop their skills and confidence. We will treat everyone with respect, celebrate their achievements, listen to their views and experiences and provide opportunities for everyone to fulfil their potential and be their authentic selves.

BSC will:

• Ensure that all individuals who work or volunteer with children, young people and adults at risk provide a positive, safe and enjoyable experience.
• Ensure that there is an RYA registered, Club Welfare Officer with the necessary skills and training who will take the lead in dealing with all safeguarding concerns with support from the RYA Safeguarding Team.
• Ensure that the Club Welfare Officer name and contact details are known to all employees, volunteers, members and participants.
• Respond swiftly and appropriately to all complaints and concerns about poor practice or suspected abuse, referring to the RYA and external agencies as necessary.
• Ensure that all information regarding safeguarding referrals is stored securely and confidentially.
• Ensure that all those who work or volunteer with at risk groups have been recruited using safe recruitment practices and includes the appropriate criminal records disclosure checks.
• Report any concerns raised involving RYA staff, volunteers and credential holders to the RYA Safeguarding Team.
• Regularly review its safeguarding procedures and practices in the light of experience, to take account of legislative, social or technological changes or where there is a change of management as required.
• Cooperate where necessary with multi-agency investigations and enquiries relating to serious case reviews involving children, young people and adults at risk, if there is an association with the sport and or recreation.

This policy will be reviewed by the Flag Officers at least every three years, or sooner if there are relevant changes to legislation or management.

BSC recognises that EVERYONE has the right to be safeguarded and we must ALL take responsibility to ensure it.

Policy reviewed and updated: Mar 2024

Next review due: Mar 2027

Last updated 11:45 on 14 March 2024