Welfare and Safeguarding for Sports Clubs
Welfare and Safeguarding is a key responsibility for a sports club. There is a lot of support that can be accessed to help clubs with this.
Here are some of the key aspects of implementing effective Safeguarding Policies as recommended by Buddle:
- Raise awareness within your organisation.
- Ensure you have a designated Safeguarding Lead.
- Allow for training opportunities for members.
- Make sure you have a comprehensive safeguarding and monitoring policy in place.
- Ensure that emergency contact details are collected and kept accessible for all members.
Safeguarding referrals should be made to Hertfordshire County Council. Child safeguarding concerns can be made on 0300 1234043.
Sport Welfare with the Herts Sport and Physical Activity Partnership
The Herts Sport and Physical Activity Partnership currently have a dedicated Welfare Officer to provide support to clubs on the critical issue of Safeguarding.
The Sport Welfare Officer in Herts Sport and Physical Activity Partnership is Joe Gamble. You can contact Joe if you would like support for your club's safeguarding lead, signposting to the right advice, or local training opportunities and events.
The Herts Sport and Physical Activity Partnership also run a Sport Welfare Newsletter.
You can get in touch by visiting the Herts Sport and Physical Activity Partnership Partnership's Sport Welfare section of their website, or by emailing j.gamble2@herts.ac.uk.
Courses
An introductory course to Safeguarding can be very valuable such as this one: Child Protection in Sport - NSPCC
The Herts Sports and Physical Activity Partnership also provide several free Safeguarding courses. Clink this link to find out what is available and being run currently: Training Courses
Key Documents
Below you will find key safeguarding documents and legislation for your reference: