Safeguarding & Child Protection Policy
TeamMates acknowledges the duty of care to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and is committed to ensuring safeguarding practice reflects statutory responsibilities, government guidance and complies with best practice.
The policy recognises that the welfare and interests of children are paramount in all circumstances. It aims to ensure that regardless of age, ability or disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation, socio-economic background, all children:
have a positive and enjoyable experience of sport at TeamMates in a safe and child centred environment
are protected from abuse whilst participating in all activities provided by TeamMates.
TeamMates acknowledges that some children, including disabled children and young people or those from ethnic minority communities, can be particularly vulnerable to abuse and we accept the responsibility to take reasonable and appropriate steps to ensure their welfare.
As part of our safeguarding policy TeamMates will:
promote and prioritise the safety and wellbeing of children and young people
ensure everyone understands their roles and responsibilities in respect of safeguarding and
is provided with appropriate learning opportunities to recognise, identify and respond to
signs of abuse, neglect and other safeguarding concerns relating to children and young people
ensure appropriate action is taken in the event of incidents/concerns of abuse and support provided to the individual/s who raise or disclose the concern
ensure that confidential, detailed and accurate records of all safeguarding concerns are maintained and securely stored
prevent the employment/deployment of unsuitable individuals
ensure robust safeguarding arrangements and procedures are in operation.
The policy and procedures will be widely promoted and are mandatory for everyone involved in TeamMates. Failure to comply with the policy and procedures will be addressed without delay and may ultimately result in dismissal/exclusion from the organisation.
TeamMates will continue to stay up to date with educational policy and follow guidance. One point of reference will be KCSIE document, which can be accessed here: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/66d7301b9084b18b95709f75/Keeping_children_safe_in_education_2024.pdf
Safeguarding; child protection policy statement
Reviewed and updated: October 2024
Review Date: October 2026