1. Introduction Summerhayes Juniors Fishing Club ("the Club") is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable environment for all children participating in fishing activities. This policy follows the guidelines set out by the Angling Trust and the NSPCC.

2. Policy Statement The Club prioritizes the safety and welfare of children, parents, volunteers, and coaches. We recognize our responsibility to safeguard all participants from harm and abuse.

3. Safeguarding Officer The Club shall appoint a designated Safeguarding Officer responsible for:

• Implementing and reviewing the safeguarding policy.
• Acting as the point of contact for any safeguarding concerns.
• Ensuring all volunteers and coaches have undergone appropriate DBS checks.
• Ensuring compliance with safer recruitment practices as outlined by the Angling Trust.

4. Code of Conduct All Club members, coaches, volunteers, and parents must:

• Treat children with respect and dignity.
• Never engage in or tolerate bullying, abusive language, or inappropriate behavior.
• Report any safeguarding concerns to the Safeguarding Officer immediately.
• Adhere to the Angling Trust’s safeguarding best practices.

5. Safer Recruitment Practices To ensure the safety of children, the Club follows Angling Trust safer recruitment practices:

• DBS Checks: All volunteers and staff in roles involving children must undergo an Enhanced DBS check, including barred list checks, renewed every three years.
• Self-Disclosure Forms: All individuals working with children must complete a self-disclosure form to assess suitability for the role.
• Job Descriptions: Roles and responsibilities must be clearly defined, including safeguarding expectations.
• Application Forms: Candidates must complete an application form to provide relevant personal details.
• Interviews: Personal interviews or discussions must be conducted before appointing volunteers.
• References: A minimum of two references will be obtained before confirming any role.
• Training: Volunteers must undergo safeguarding training as recommended by the Angling Trust.

6. Reporting & Procedures If any concerns arise:

• The incident must be reported to the Safeguarding Officer immediately.
• The Club will follow the Angling Trust and NSPCC safeguarding procedures.
• Confidentiality will be maintained, and appropriate agencies will be involved where necessary.

7. Supervision & Parental Responsibility

• Parents/Guardians must accompany their children unless the Committee has voted otherwise.
• A minimum ratio of 1 coach to 4 children will be maintained.
• All activities will be conducted in a safe, monitored environment.

8. Online Safety & Photography

• No photographs or videos of children will be taken without parental consent.
• The Club will ensure online communications are appropriate and monitored.

9. Whistleblowing Policy

• The Club encourages a culture of openness where concerns can be raised without fear of reprisal.
• Any individual raising safeguarding concerns will be protected from victimization.
• Concerns should be reported directly to the Safeguarding Officer or an appropriate authority.

10. Transport Policy

• The Club does not provide transport for children to or from sessions or events.
• Parents/guardians are responsible for arranging transport.
• Coaches and volunteers should avoid one-on-one travel with children.

11. Changing Room & Toilet Guidance

• The Club has no changing facilities; it is the parents' responsibility to ensure their children are suitably dressed for the weather forecast and that sunblock is applied during the summer.

12. Emergency Procedures

• A first aid kit will be available at all sessions.
• Coaches and volunteers will have access to emergency contact information.
• In case of serious incidents, emergency services should be contacted immediately.

13. Managing Allegations Against Coaches or Volunteers

• Any allegations will be handled in accordance with the Angling Trust safeguarding procedures.
• Immediate action will be taken to remove any individual under investigation from direct contact with children.
• The Safeguarding Officer will liaise with relevant authorities as needed.

14. Communication & Social Media Policy

• Coaches and volunteers must not directly message children through personal accounts.
• All communication with juniors must be conducted via official club channels.
• Parents should be copied into any electronic communications with juniors.

15. Policy Review This policy will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary in line with best practices and legal requirements.

For any safeguarding concerns, contact:

Safeguarding Officer: Kelly Brooks - 07557 774039
Angling Trust Safeguarding Officer: Dom Lattimer - 07301088542