Child Protection Policy
We at Forres Area Soccer Sevens are committed to good practice which protects children from harm. Staff and volunteers accept and recognise their responsibility to provide an environment which promotes the safety of the child at all times. To achieve this we will;
• Develop an awareness of the issues which may lead to children being harmed.
• Create an open environment by identifying a “Designated person” to whom the children can turn to if they need to talk.
• Adopt child centred and democratic coaching styles.
• Adopt child protection guidelines through codes of conduct for players and all adults working at the club. Adult workers include coaches, parents and volunteers.
• Ensure careful recruitment, selection and management procedures.
• Ensure complaints and disciplinary procedures are included in our constitution.
• Share information about concerns with children and parents and others who need to know.
• Provide information as required to the management committee.
• Ensure good and safe working/playing practices
• Be involved in training made available through the various agencies and strengthen links with these agencies.
• Keep child protection policies under regular review.
• Have procedures relating specifically to bullying, away trips, transport and use of photography
• Have an induction document available for parents, coaches and children clearly outlining their rights and responsibilities
Chairperson, Forres Area Soccer Sevens
The Children (Scotland Order (1995) is based on a clear and consistent set of principles designed with the common aim of promoting the welfare of children. Children have the right to be safe. All coaches should ensure that this fundamental principle takes precedence over all other considerations.
This policy applies to all those involved in Forres Area Soccer Sevens, coaches, administrators, officials, volunteer drivers, parents and young people.
Equality Statement
Forres Area Soccer Sevens is committed to a policy of equal treatment of all members and requires all members of whatever level of authority to abide and adhere to this general principle and the Child Protection Policy requirements of the Codes of Practice issued by the Equal Opportunities Commission and Commission for Racial Equality. (See appendix 11) All children should be valued and treated in an equitable and fair manner regardless of ability, age, sex, religion, social and ethnic background or political persuasion. Children, irrespective of ability or disability should be involved in sports activities in an integrated and inclusive way, whenever possible, thus allowing them to participate to their full potential alongside other children (Code of Ethics and Good Practice for Children‟s Sport 2000)
Forres Area Soccer Sevens recognises the additional vulnerability of some children and the extra difficulties they may face when seeking help, i.e.
• Dependency due to disability may make some children feel powerless
• On occasions possible limited ability to communicate their feelings
• A negative self image can make children vulnerable to manipulation by others
To address this vulnerability coaches will seek guidance on working with children with a disability from external agencies, parents / guardians and the children themselves.
Confidentiality statement
We at Forres Area Soccer Sevens will never promise to keep secrets. However, information of a confidential nature will only be communicated on a “need to know” basis, with the welfare of the child paramount.
Considerations of confidentiality will not be allowed to override the rights of children or young members to be protected from harm. (see appendix 12)
A full Child Protection policy statement is displayed and available within club premises for all interested parties to read.
Awareness of the issues
Background knowledge in relation to child abuse, the general principles of child protection and the ability to recognise and respond to abuse are important issues. Of primary concern for Forres Area Soccer Sevens is the issue of Child Protection of our young members within the operation of the club. However, being cognisant of the indicators of abuse in respect of young members caused by others outside the club, is of an equal importance for the safety and well being of that child.
The Children (Scotland) Order 1995 formally recognises four types of abuse.
Physical
Physical abuse is the deliberate physical injury to a child, or the wilful or neglectful failure to prevent physical injury or suffering. This may include hitting, shaking, throwing, poisoning, burning or scalding, drowning, suffocating, confinement to a room or cot, or inappropriately giving drugs to control behaviour.
Neglect
Neglect is the persistent failure to meet a child‟s physical and/or psychological needs, likely to result in significant harm. It may involve a parent or carer failing to provide adequate foods, shelter and clothing, failing to protect a child from physical harm or danger, failing to ensure access to appropriate medical care or treatment, lack of stimulation or lack of supervision. It may also include neglect of, or unresponsiveness to, a child’s basic emotional needs.
Sexual
Sexual abuse involves forcing or enticing a child to take part in sexual activities, whether or not the child is aware of what is happening. The activities may involve physical contact, including penetrative or non penetrative acts. They may include non-contact activities, such as involving children in looking at or the production of pornographic material or watching sexual activities, or encouraging children to behave in sexually inappropriate ways.
Emotional
Emotional abuse is the persistent emotional ill treatment of a child such as to cause severe and persistent adverse effects on the child’s emotional development. It may involve conveying to children that they are worthless or unloved, inadequate, or valued only insofar as they meet the needs of another person. It may involve causing children frequently to feel frightened or in danger, or the exploitation or corruption of children. Smothering a child’s development through over-protection can also be a form of abuse. Some level of emotional abuse is involved in all types of ill treatment of a child, though it may occur alone. Domestic violence, adult mental health problems and parental substance misuse may expose children to emotional abuse.
In addition to these Forres Area Soccer Sevens recognise that we have a responsibility to: “protect children from bullying and to have policies and procedures in places to do so”
Indicators of abuse
The following is a list of some indicators of abuse, but it is not exhaustive:
• Unexplained bruising in soft tissue areas
• Repeated injuries
• Black eyes
• Injuries to the mouth
• Torn or blood-stained clothing
• Burns or scalds
• Bites
• Fractures
• Marks from implements
• Inconsistent stories/excuses relating to injuries
• Unexplained changes in behaviour – becoming withdrawn or aggressive
• Difficulty in making friends
• Distrustful of adults or excessive attachment to adults
• Sudden drop in performance
• Changes in attendance pattern
• Inappropriate sexual awareness, behaviour or language
• Reluctance to remove clothing
Guidelines for responding to a disclosure
DOs
Stay calm.
Listen & hear. Give the person time to say what they want.
Reassure them that they have done the right thing in telling and that it will be dealt with appropriately.
Record in writing what was said as soon as possible
Report to someone else in the organisation – “the designated person”.
Record your report.
DON’Ts
Panic.
Promise to keep secrets.
Enquire into the details of the abuse.
Make a child repeat the story unnecessarily.
Anti-Bullying Statement
Coaches should challenge bullying in any form i.e. physical or emotional. Physical bullying can take the form of attacks, such as hitting, kicking, taking or damaging belongings.
Emotional bullying may be a verbal assault, including name-calling, insults, repeat teasing, sectarian/racist assaults, or it may take more indirect forms, such as spreading malicious gossip, rumours or excluding someone from a social group.
Bullying is not an accepted behaviour towards anyone at Forres Area Soccer Sevens be they a child, coach, volunteer or parent. Anyone found to be bullying others will be dealt with seriously both in regards to the behaviour exhibited and the reasons for the behaviour. (See Anti-Bullying policy appendix 13 for more details.)
Designated person
The designated person within Forres Area Soccer Sevens is: Kevin Skivington and he is contactable via club.
Kevin Skivington shall be made known to young members, coaches and parents alike; as the designated person to whom concerns will be addressed. If the concern is about the designated person please report to the club chairperson. Procedures for recording/dealing with incidents/accidents will be outlined later in this policy document.
Safe recruitment procedures for volunteers/coaches
• Volunteers and coaches are carefully selected, trained and supervised. The office bearers of the club committee must vouch for their potential involvement and their participation must be ratified by the unanimous approval of remaining coaches.
• All new coaches/ volunteers working with children or young people must complete the enclosed application form. (see appendix 1)
• Declaration of past convictions or cases pending and agreement to have a Pre-Employment Consultancy check completed, is of course a pre-requisite to approval to coach.(see appendix 1)
• All volunteers/coaches must agree to abide by the club’s Child Protection Policy and all are required to sign a pro-forma stating this. (see appendix 5, Consent Forms)
• Any concerns or objections with regard to suitability of a coach must be submitted to the “designated person”. These matters will be raised with the club committee with appropriate action taken including a formal response in writing to the concerned party if required.
Training for volunteers/coaches
• Governing Body approved coaching sessions for volunteers/coaches will be scheduled at the club and ALL participants are expected to qualify to at least “EARLY TOUCHES” level.
• Appointment of volunteers/coaches will be on the basis of their current or previous experience either playing or coaching sport.
• Education and training in the basics of child protection will apply to all coaches/volunteers/management committee members working with the children or young members. Forres Area Soccer Sevens are committed to continuous updating and review of our current Child Protection Policy.
Child protection training should include basic awareness of child protection issues. Our organisation’s child protection policies and procedures including your Code of Conduct Training will be carefully selected to ensure it is sufficient.
• Ensuring that all new coaches have attended child protection awareness workshop within six months of taking up their post. This opportunity should also be made available to parents and other volunteers to enable a culture of a child-focused club to prevail.
• All staff and volunteers should receive induction, and training appropriate to their role. Training should be updated and reviewed regularly for new staff/ volunteers and in line with changing legislation.
Support and supervision
Forres Area Soccer Sevens recognise that it is good practice to set up a system of support & supervision of staff/volunteers. This will enable staff/volunteers to become more effective by identifying training needs and dealing quickly with difficulties. Volunteers will be offered regular opportunities to review their experiences at Forres Area Soccer Sevens and to identify any training or further support they require.
Guidelines for reporting accidents
In the event of an accident, the following procedure will be carried out:-
Fill in 2 copies of the Accident Form (see appendix 3) for ALL accidents.
Make contact with parents/guardians. Put one copy of form to incident book/folder and forward one copy to designated person for record keeping/ action required.
Contact emergency services/GP if required
Record in detail all facts surrounding the accident, witnesses etc.
Guidelines for reporting allegations/incidents
Record all incidents reported or observed on an Incident Form (see appendix 4)
and give copy to designated person
Ensure confidentiality – only “need to know basis” (reference confidentiality clause)
The designated person will be responsible for storing any report in a safe and secure environment.
USEFUL NUMBERS
NSPCC Helpline 0808 800 5000
Childline Freephone 0800 1111
Availability of information
It is important that there is a free flow of information between coaches/volunteers, children and parents, in terms of promotion of the club and what we aim to achieve in relation to your child. Parents should know what we do and how we do it, and the coaches/designated person will always be on hand during, or after coaching sessions, for consultation or advice. When appropriate, letters (or telephone contact) will be issued in relation to further information or specifics in respect of an event etc. A regular review of club policies will take place through meetings with coaches/volunteers and feedback from children and parents.
Recruitment procedures
Guidance for this recruitment procedure has been taken from:
The Code of Ethics and Good Practice for Children‟s Sport
Our Duty to Care
Co-operating to Safeguard Children, 2003
Forres Area Soccer Sevens guidelines
Forres Area Soccer Sevens relies heavily on the time and commitment freely given by volunteers, and without this the opportunities for children and young people to participate in sport would not exist. Forres Area Soccer Sevens will ensure good recruitment procedures by;
• Defining the role the individual is applying for (job specification).
• Insisting that a person applying for any post of responsibility within the club complete the relevant form (see sample application form).
• Obtaining two references in writing.
• Obtaining the individual’s signed permission to enable Forres Area Soccer Sevens to request a Pre-Employment Disclosure Scotland Check (proof of identity should be provided).
• Setting a probationary period (6 months for staff or long term volunteers).
• Interviewing the individual either formally or informally by two members.
- Assessing the individual’s experience of working with children or young people and knowledge of child protection issues.
- Assessing their commitment to promoting good practice.
- Assessing their ability to communicate with children and young people (i.e. be approachable). One way of doing this is to consult young people or ask questions to examine how a person would respond to a particular scenario e.g. are they authoritarian or too relaxed in their approach.
Guidelines for good practice and code of conduct, good and safe working and playing practices.
Forres Area Soccer Sevens will ensure:
Proper supervision of children within the club and with a satisfactory ratio of coaches: A maximum ratio of 1 coach: 12 children will be adhered to.
Use of proper, recommended equipment including. – Sport specific guidelines – identification markers/ cones, clearly visible – playing /coaching surfaces, free from debris.
Use of equipment only when supervised by a coach.
A clearly defined area of play/ in bounds, fenced and safe from vehicular traffic. n Public Liability Insurance in place, covering all members of the club.
Only children within same/ similar age bands will be selected for team playing/ coaching.
A first aider and first aid kit on hand in event of an accident, with accident incident forms to be marked up at every relatively serious accident.
NB All accidents will be reported to parents at collection.
In the event of transport being required this will be provided and supervised by coaching/ volunteers in possession of driving license and roadworthy vehicles only. Permission must be sought from parents prior to any transport being facilitated. (See Appendix 10)
A safe environment for members
Ongoing training and information for Leaders
Implementation of policy and procedures in line with guidance from Our Duty to Care and the Code of Ethics & Good Practice for Children‟s Sport
Facilitation of open discussion on member protection issues n Support to members who report accusations of abuse
Suspected abuse information treated confidentially
Appropriate action is taken if members breach standards of reasonable behaviour
The establishment and maintenance of a coaching register
The setting of standards of good practice
The designated officer has knowledge of statutory child protection procedures and their responsibility in reporting concerns from Co-operating to Safeguard Children DHSSPS
That parents are kept informed, therefore parents should have access to the club‟s policy guidelines for away trips / overnights (see appendix 8) and the use of photography and video equipment. (see appendix 9) The implementation of good and safe working practice is to develop the club in the short, medium and long term to the mutual benefit of the member, the local area and community as a whole.
Forres Area Soccer Sevens has the right to:
Expect all leaders to comply with its Code of Conduct
Expect all youth members to maintain standards of reasonable behaviour
Take appropriate action if members breach the Code of Conduct or Child Protection Policy
Expect all members to undertake appropriate training when advised to
Expect leaders will not abuse members physically, emotionally or sexually
Take appropriate action in the event of accusations
Acquire pre-employment checks on all coaches/volunteers
Maintain records on individuals in line with advice from the data protection agency i.e. only hold records on individuals that they have a justifiable reason for holding.
The Coaches’ Charter
All coaches and volunteers are encouraged to demonstrate exemplary behaviour in order to protect children in their care and themselves from false allegations. The following are common sense examples of how to create a positive culture and climate within our club.
As a Coach/volunteer within this club I, the undersigned, agree to the following charter
• Coaches should respect the rights, dignity and worth of every person and treat everyone equally within the context of their sport.
• Coaches should place the well being and safety of the child above the performance. They should follow all guidelines laid down by the Governing Body.
• Coaches should develop an appropriate working relationship with children based on mutual trust and respect. Coaches must not exert undue influence to obtain personal benefit or reward.
• Coaches should encourage and guide players to accept responsibility for their own behaviour and performance.
• Coaches should hold up to date and nationally recognised Scottish Football Association coaching qualifications and hold appropriate insurance cover.
• Coaches should ensure that activities they direct or advocate are appropriate for the age, maturity and ability of the individual.
• Coaches should at the outset clarify with performers (and where appropriate with their parents) exactly what is expected of them and what players are entitled to expect from their coach. A simple checklist may sometimes be appropriate.
• Coaches should co-operate fully with specialists (e.g. other coaches, officials, sports scientists, doctors, physiotherapists) in the best interests of the performer. • Coaches should always promote the positive aspects of Forres Area Soccer Sevens (e.g. fair play) and never condone rule violations or the use of prohibited substances.
• Coaches should consistently display high standard of behaviour and appearance. They should be an excellent role model – this includes not smoking, drinking alcohol, using foul language or taking drugs in the company of young people
• Coaches should always work in an open environment (e.g. avoiding private or unobserved situations and encouraging an open environment, e.g. no secrets)
• Coaches should always put the welfare of each child/young person first, before winning or achieving goals
• Coaches should maintain a safe and appropriate distance with the child/young person (e.g. it is not appropriate to have an intimate relationship with a child or to share a room, tent, shower/bath or changing facilities with them)
• Coaches should build balanced relationships based on mutual trust which empowers children to share in decision-making
• Coaches should make sport FUN, enjoyable and promoting FAIR PLAY
• Coaches should ensure that if any form of manual/physical support is required, it is provided openly and according to agreed guidelines. If physical support is needed, talk aloud to the child/young person explaining what you are doing and why as it is difficult to maintain hand positions when a child is constantly moving. Children/young people should always be consulted before they are touched and their agreement gained. Parental/carer views about manual support should always be carefully considered
• Coaches should involve parents/carers wherever possible (e.g. for the responsibility of their children in the changing rooms). If groups have to be supervised in the changing rooms, always ensure parents/teachers/coaches/officials work in pairs
• Coaches should ensure that if mixed teams are taken away, they should always be accompanied by a male and female coach. Be aware of the potential for same gender abuse by male adults of boys and female adults of girls.
• Coaches should ensure that at tournaments or friendship events, adults do not enter children‟s rooms, invite or permit children into their rooms or become involved in unobserved or unsupervised 1:1 situations with children and young people
• Coaches should give enthusiastic and constructive feedback, encouraging achievements rather than negative criticism
• Coaches should recognise the developmental needs and capacity of children/young people, including those with a disability – avoiding excessive training or competition and not pushing them against their will
• Coaches should secure parental consent in writing to act in loco parentis, if the need arises to give permission for the administration of emergency first aid and/or other medical treatment
• Coaches should keep a written record of any injury that occurs, along with the details of any treatment given
• Coaches should request written parental consent if club officials are required to transport young people in their cars and not doing so without the presence of a second adult
• Coaches should keep a written record of any inappropriate body contact with a child
• Coaches should immediately report any accusations made against you or your colleagues
• Coaches should challenge bullying in any form i.e. physical or emotional. Physical bulling can take the form of attacks, such as hitting, kicking, taking or damaging belongings. Emotional bullying may be a verbal assault, including name-calling, insults, repeat teasing, sectarian/racist assaults, or it may take more indirect forms, such as spreading malicious gossip, rumours or excluding someone from a social group. Bullying is not an accepted behaviour towards anyone at Forres Area Soccer Sevens be they child, coach, volunteer or parent. Anyone found to be bullying others will be dealt with seriously both in regards to the behaviour exhibited and the reasons for the behaviour. (See Anti-Bullying policy for more details.) Practices coaches /volunteers should
• Avoid spending any time alone with children/young people away from others.
• Never take children/young people to your home.
Practices never to be sanctioned by coaches/volunteers
The following should never be sanctioned. You should never:
• Engage in rough, physical or sexually provocative games, including horseplay
• Share a room/tent/changing room/bath or shower with a child/young person
• Allow or engage in any form of inappropriate touching
• Allow children/young people to use foul, sexualised or discriminatory language unchallenged
• Make sexually suggestive comments to a child/young person, even in fun
• Reduce a child/young person to tears as a form of control
• Allow allegations made by a child to go unchallenged, unrecorded or not acted upon • Undertake personal care for children/young people. Ensure that a parent or carer is responsible for personal care.
• Invite or allow children to stay with you at your home
I understand any misdemeanours or breach of this code will be dealt with immediately and reported verbally to the designated person. Persistent breach of the code will result in dismissal from the club. Dismissals can be appealed by the coach / volunteer with final decisions taken by the club committee.
Emergency Action/First Aid
All coaches, leaders and members should be prepared with an action plan in the event of an emergency. This will include
• Access to First Aid equipment
• Telephone contact if the participant is a minor
• Telephone contact to the emergency Services
Codes of conduct for children/young people
Children are expected to:
Keep within the defined boundary of the playing/coaching area.
Behave and listen to all instructions from the coach.
Take care of equipment owned by the club.
Refrain from the use of bad language or racial/sectarian references.
Refrain from bullying or persistent use of rough and dangerous play.
Show respect to other youth members and leaders
Keep themselves safe
Report inappropriate behaviour or risky situations for youth members
Play fairly
Respect officials and accept decisions
Show appropriate loyalty and be gracious in defeat
Respect opponents
Not cheat
Not use violence
Children/Young people have the right to:
Be safe
Be listened to
Be respected
Privacy
Enjoy your sport in a protective environment
Be referred to professional help if needed
Be protected from abuse by other member or outside sources.
Participate on an equal basis, appropriate to their ability
Experience competition and the desire to win
Be believed
Ask for help
Any misdemeanours and general misbehaviour will be addressed by the immediate coach and reported verbally to the designated person. Persistent misbehaviour will result in dismissal from the club. Parents will be informed. Dismissals can be appealed by the child/parent with final decisions taken by the club committee.
Codes of conduct for parents:
Parents are expected to:
Complete and return the Health and Consent Form pertaining to their child’s participation with Forres Area Soccer Sevens. There is a legal requirement for parental consent. (See appendix 5)
Deliver and collect the child punctually to and from coaching sessions/matches.
Ensure their child is properly and adequately attired for the weather conditions of the time, including shorts, shirt, socks, tracksuit, sweat-tops, hat, gloves etc…
Ensure that proper footwear and protective equipment are worn at ALL times in accordance with Health and Safety Regulations. Any child not in possession of these two fundamental requirements will not be permitted to participate.
Detail any health concerns pertaining to the child on the consent form, in particular breathing or chest conditions. Any changes in the state of the child’s health should be reported to the coach prior to coaching sessions.
To inform the coach prior to departure from the field of play if child is to be collected early from a coaching session
Encourage their child to play by the rules and teach them that they can only do their best
Behave responsibly on the sidelines
Show appreciation and supporting the coach
Ensure their child is punctual
Be realistic
Provide their child with proper clothing and equipment
Ensure their child’s hygiene and nutritional needs are met
Accept the official’s judgement
Acknowledge the importance and role of the club coaches who provide their time free to ensure children’s participation in the club
Promote their child’s participation in playing sport for fun
Parents/Guardians have the right to:
Know their child is safe
Be informed of problems or concerns relating to their children
Be informed if their child is injured
Have their consent sought for issues such as trips
Contribute to decisions within the club
Complain if they have concerns about the standard of coaching
Any misdemeanours and breach of this code of conduct will be dealt with immediately by a Forres Area Soccer Sevens official. Persistent concerns or breaches will result in the parent/guardian being asked not to attend competitions if their attendance is detrimental to the child‟s welfare. The ultimate action should a parent/guardian continue to breach the code of behaviour may mean the Forres Area Soccer Sevens officials regrettably asking the child to leave the club.
Reporting procedures relating to behaviour of a member/volunteer of Forres Area Soccer Sevens.
If you do not know who to turn to for advice or are worried about sharing your concerns with a senior colleague, you should contact the Social Services direct (or the NSPCC on 0808 800 5000 or Childline on 0800 1111). At any stage during the process in the left hand column the issue can be referred externally either formally or informally for advice. Following the external (right column) outcome the matter may be referred back to the club’s Disciplinary Committee.
Guidance for away trips
Travelling to away events is a regular occurrence for Forres Area Soccer Sevens. Trips may vary from short journeys across town to play another local team or involve more complicated arrangements involving overnight stays. But even what may appear as the most straightforward of trips will require some level of planning. The following will outline a number of issues that need to be considered when travelling with children.
Communication with;
• Children – they should be aware of the travel plans, venue and time for collection, time of return and any costs. Children should also have a clear understanding of what standard of behaviour is expected of them. Children must know what sports kit they need to bring with them.
• Parents – should be made aware of the above and must have completed a consent form detailing any medical issues that the team manager should be aware of. Parents should also have the name and contact details of the team manager in the event of an emergency.
• Other coaches / volunteers – need to be made aware of what their responsibilities are in advance of the trip. If the trip is a long journey, it is important that all coaches / volunteers have an itinerary.
Transport
A more detailed transport policy is available in appendix 10, but the following are some basic points.
Ensure the driver has an appropriate and valid driving licence.
Allow an appropriate length of time to complete the journey.
Consider the impact of traffic and weather conditions.
If using a mini-bus ensure that all seats are forward facing and they all have seat belts fitted if carrying children.
Is the driver experienced in driving a mini-bus?
Ensure leaders and children wear seat belts.
Check there is appropriate insurance for the journey.
Clarify supervision requirements with other leaders.
The driver should not be considered as a supervisor during the journey.
Ensure that the vehicle is road worthy.
Ratio
Dependent on the sport the ratio of adult to child may vary but what ever is considered appropriate would generally need to be increased when travelling away from home.
Insurance
In addition to the mini-bus / car insurance, the team manager needs to ensure that the clubs general insurance covers travel to away events.
Emergencies
Ensure that the vehicle has breakdown and recovery cover.
At least one of the leaders should be trained in first aid procedures and a first aid kit should be available.
The leader should have access to a mobile phone and contact details for all the children.
The above are only basic points of advice and are not comprehensive guidelines. For more detailed guidelines see Safe Sport Away.
Hosting
Being a host family or being hosted is an integral part of many sports and, if handled appropriately, can add to a child’s enjoyment and experience at a competition. The whole area of hosting though can create a great deal of concern for parents, children and the hosts. It is in response to these concerns that we have drawn up the following guidelines. Being a host can be a particularly challenging role, but also very rewarding. A host should be provided with as much information about the child/children staying with them and details of the competition. They in turn should agree to provide references and be vetted when this is available. With the introduction of the Criminal Records Bureau, Disclosure Scotland and the Pre-Employment Consultancy Service, access to vetting for sports clubs organising events within England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland should be achievable. When arranging for events/trips abroad, the club will be dependent on the ability of the host organisation to access vetting services and obtain appropriate references. It is still the responsibility of the trip organiser to provide the hosts with the relevant information on the child and details of what is expected.
Child/Youth Member Right To:
Responsibility
• Be safe
• Have any concerns listened to
• Be respected by their coach and host family
• Have easy access to phone contact with the trip organiser
• Have a list of events (itinerary)
• Regular group meetings with other young people
• Have their religious needs facilitated
• Have prior knowledge of the climatic variation to enable them to bring adequate clothing
• Be made aware of the codes required for phoning home
• Maps of the local area
• Have the currency of the country they are visiting explained to them
• Be made aware of collection and drop off arrangements
• Show respect to their host families
• Show respect to other youth members and their leaders
• Keeping themselves safe
• Reporting inappropriate behaviour or risky situations
• Attending any prior planning meeting to ensure they are fully informed of the plans
• Maintain the sport‟s reputation by adhering to their code of conduct
• Discussing their dietary needs with the host family (though it is the parent’s/organiser’s responsibility to ensure this information is passed on in advance)
• Maintain the accommodation to the standard set by the family
• Be aware that they are acting as an ambassador for their sport and on occasions their country
• Dependent on arrangements with parents, manage their own money
Coach/manager Right To: Responsibility
• Have support form their Governing Body if reporting any concerns about the arrangements
• Be protected from abuse by children/youths, other adults, members or parents involved in the trip
• Not be left vulnerable when working with children
• Receive the relevant information from parents/guardians in advance of the trip i.e. – Dietary needs – Any personal care needs – Emergency contact numbers – Signed medial consent form/permission form – List of any medication/allergies – E111 form completed (EU visits)
• Be respected by the children in preparation for and during the trip
• To have any personal “out of pocket” expenses reimbursed
• To be able to apply sanctions in line with the Governing Body guidelines and discussed prior to the trip
• To have time off i.e. that another adult is the point of contact for an emergency rather than one individual all the time
• To plan well in advance of the trip
• Check Governing Body guidelines
• Gather information on destination and venue (if possible carry out a risk assessment)
• Facilitate information meetings prior to the trip for parents and children
• Maintain confidentiality about sensitive information
• Be a role-model during the trip (disciplined/committed/time keeping)
• Fostering team work to ensure the safety of youth members in their care
• Respond to children/youth members‟ statements and concerns
• Record any complaints or accidents on relevant documentation
• Provide the children, parents and host with an itinerary of events
• Have clear arrangements for collecting and transporting children during the trip
• Ensure that if a young person has to share a room that it is with someone of the same sex and that they are aware of who this is in advance
• Check adequate insurance cover is arranged
• Ensure they have received the relevant documentation from the child‟s parents/guardians
• To inform parents and children of standards of behaviour required and possible sanctions
• To ensure that there is an appropriate adult/child ratio
• To submit a report to club after the trip
• Make parents and children aware of photographic policy and obtain parent‟s signature (or include on permission form)
Parents/Guardians Right To: Responsibility
• Know their child is safe
• Be informed of any problems or concerns relating to their children
• Be informed if their child is injured
• Have their consent sought prior to the trip
• Contribute to the decisions in planning the trip (when appropriate)
• Have knowledge of where their child is staying and with whom
• Have a contact number for their child‟s hosts and trip organiser
• Have a detailed itinerary of events that their child will be taking part in
• To be aware of the Code of Conduct for children, coaches and hosts
• To agree sanctions with the coach and child prior to the trip
• Ensure the child has appropriate spending money
• To pay for relevant costs prior to their child going on the trip
• Provide the coach with all relevant documents and emergency contact number
• Ensure the child has a passport (if required) prior to the trip
• Provide appropriate clothing to meet the needs of the child while away from home
• Drop off and collect their child at agreed time
• Encourage their child to play by the rules
Hosts Right To: Responsibility
• To be treated with respect by the children, coaches and parents
• To have prior knowledge of any special requirements e.g. – Medical – Food – Religious -Transport – Mobility
• To have telephone contacts, lists of parents and coaches in the event of an emergency
• To be financially reimbursed for any expenses (when agreed)
• To be informed of competition details
• To have clearly defined roles prior to the event
• To be consulted about any change in plans
• To have agreed to a Code of Conduct
• To consent to checks/references being sought into their appropriateness of being hosts
• To provide a safe and supportive environment for the children while they are hosting them
• To attend host family meeting prior to and during the competition of arranged
• To provide the child with a positive experience of staying way from home and possibly a different culture
Overseas Trips
When arranging for events / trips abroad the club will be dependent on the ability of the host organisation to access vetting services and obtain appropriate references. It is still the responsibility of the trip organiser to provide the hosts with the relevant information on the child and details of what is expected.
Photography and videoing guidance.
There have been concerns about the risks posed directly and indirectly to children and young people through the use of photographs on sports websites and other publications. Photographs can be used as a means of identifying children when they are accompanied with personal information – this is X who lives at Y, is a member of the Z club and who likes a certain music group. This information can make a child vulnerable to an individual who may wish to start to “groom” that child for abuse. Secondly the content of the photo can be used or adapted for inappropriate use. There is evidence of this adapted material finding its way onto child pornography sites.
Forres Area Soccer Sevens have decided that we needed to develop a policy in relation to the use of images of young people on our website and in other publications. We have considered the type of images that are suitable and that appropriately represent our sport, without putting children at increased risk. We have ensured that parents support this policy. When assessing the potential risks in the use of images of footballers, the most important factor is the potential of inappropriate use of images of children. By increasing the awareness of the potential risks and taking appropriate steps the potential for misuse of images can be reduced.
Forres Area Soccer Sevens will:
Consider using models or illustrations if you are promoting an activity.
Avoid the use of the first name and surname of individuals in a photograph. This reduces the risk of inappropriate, unsolicited attention from people within and outside the sport.
Guidance:
If the child is named, avoid using their photograph.
If a photograph is used, avoid naming the child or name child/players as a group in no particular order.
Ask for the child‟s permission to use their image. This ensures that they are aware of the way the image is to be used to represent the sport. A Child‟s Permission Form is one way of achieving this.
Ask for parental permission to use an image of a young person. This ensures that parents are aware of the way the image of their child is representing the sport. A Parental Permission Form is one way of achieving this.
Only use images of children in suitable dress to reduce the risk of inappropriate use. With regard to the actual content it is difficult to specify exactly what is appropriate given the wide diversity of sports.
Create a recognised procedure for reporting the use of inappropriate images to reduce the risks to children. Follow your child protection procedures, ensuring both your sports child protection officer and the Social Services and/or Police are informed.
Forres Area Soccer Sevens have;
Established the type of images that appropriately represent the sport for the Web and other media.
Thought about the level of consideration we give to the use of images of children in other publications, for example, the processes involved in choosing appropriate images for the newsletter or magazine. Apply an increased level of consideration to the images of children and young people used in the web site. Guidelines for Use of Photographic Filming Equipment at Sporting Events
Forres Area Soccer Sevens will:
Provide a clear brief about what is considered appropriate in terms of content and behaviour.
Issue the official photographer with identification which must be worn at all times. n Inform children and parents that a photographer will be in attendance at an event and ensure they consent to both the taking and publication of films or photographs.
Not allow unsupervised access to children or one to one photo sessions at events. Not approve/allow photo sessions outside the events or at a child‟s home.
Ensure that if parents or other spectators are intending to photograph or video at an event they should also be made aware of your expectations.
Ask spectators to register at an event if they wish to use photographic equipment.
Inform children and parents that if they have concerns they could report these to the organiser.
Encourage anyone with concerns regarding inappropriate or intrusive photography to report these to the event organiser or official and recorded in the same manner as any other child protection concern.
Transporting of children
Guidelines on transporting a child or young person in your car
The issue of transporting children has become very sensitive for sports leaders and parents. Many coaches argue that their club could not operate without the goodwill of volunteers and parents ensuring that children are returned home or transported to events in a private car. It is encouraged that coaches do not take children on journeys alone in their car. The vast majority of coaches and volunteers will help out through their genuine desire to see children or their particular sport develop. Unfortunately we must face the reality that a minority of others will join a sports club to gain access to children and create an air of acceptability about their role, justifying their close contact with children. Best practice is clearly to avoid transporting a child alone, but we recognise that in some circumstances it is an essential part of a child‟s participation in training and competition. If all alternatives have been exhausted and an adult has to transport a child there are a number of safety measures that Forres Area Soccer Sevens recommend should be put in place to minimise the risk:
• The driver like all coaches / volunteers who have access to children in our organisation should have agreed to a Disclosure Scotland check being carried out on them. The club should also have sight of the driver‟s licence to ensure there are no endorsements.
• Parents should be informed of the person who will be transporting their child, the reasons why and how long the journey will take.
• A person other then the planned driver should talk to the child about transport arrangements to check they are comfortable about the plans
• The driver (and club) must ensure that they have insurance to carry others, particularly if they are in a paid position or claiming expenses.
• The driver should attempt to have more than one child in the car.
• When leaving children off after a match or training session coaches / volunteers should alternate which child is dropped off last. Ideally two child would be left off at an agreed point i.e. one of their family homes.
• The person who leaves children home should be alternated; this would reduce the risk of any one individual from always being alone with the child.
• The driver should have a point of contact and mobile phone should they break down.
• Ensure that children are aware of their rights and they have someone to turn to or report any concerns they may have. If a culture of safety is created within our club then the child is more likely to talk to another person if they are feeling uncomfortable about a situation.
• Children should wear seatbelts at all times. The driver is legally responsible to ensure that a child under 14 wears a seatbelt (i.e. the adult would have to pay any fine) but morally responsible to ensure all passengers wear seatbelts.
• Late collections. These can present our club and coaches with particular difficulties. Parents/guardians will be provided with guidelines addressing the issue and outlining their responsibility and the consequences of late collections. Our club should have contact numbers for parents/guardians and if possible be provided with an alternative contact number. Parents/guardians should have a contact number for the club/coach to inform them of emergencies and possible late collections. Like all advice these procedures will only reduce the risk and still the best advice is to avoid transporting children alone in a car.
Equal Opportunities Policy for Forres Area Soccer Sevens
• Forres Area Soccer Sevens are committed to a policy of equal treatment of all members and requires all members of whatever level of authority to abide and adhere to this general principle and the requirements of the Codes of Practice issued by the Equal Opportunities Commission and Commission for Racial Equality.
• All members are expected to abide by the requirements of the Race Relations Act 1976, Sex Discrimination Act 1986 and Disability Discrimination Act