Safeguarding Policy – Netball Kids UK

Introduction

Netball Kids provides netball activities for children aged 2-10 years. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expect all staff, volunteers, and partners to share this commitment.

Policy Statement

We believe that:

• Children’s welfare is paramount
• All children have the right to protection from abuse
• All suspicions and allegations of abuse must be properly reported
• Staff and volunteers must be clear on appropriate action

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

Our organisation will:

• Appoint a DSL and Deputy DSL
• Ensure they receive appropriate training
• Display their contact details at all venues
• Maintain 24-hour availability for emergencies

Safer Recruitment

We ensure:

• Enhanced DBS checks for all staff/volunteers
• Two written references required
• Verification of qualifications
• Identity checks
• Right to work verification
• Employment gap explanations
• Safeguarding interview questions

Staff Training

All personnel must complete:

• Basic safeguarding training
• First aid certification
• Annual refresher courses
• Specific training for roles
• Regular safeguarding updates

Code of Conduct

Staff and volunteers must:

• Never be alone with a child
• Maintain professional boundaries
• Use appropriate language
• Never use physical punishment
• Report all concerns promptly
• Follow mobile phone/camera policies

Reporting Procedures

When concerns arise:

• Record incidents immediately
• Inform DSL within 24 hours
• Use standardised reporting forms
• Maintain confidentiality
• Follow local authority guidelines

Types of Abuse

Staff must be alert to:

• Physical abuse
• Emotional abuse
• Sexual abuse
• Neglect
• Bullying
• Online safety concerns

Physical Contact Guidelines

Appropriate contact only for:

• Safety and injury prevention
• First aid administration
• Teaching specific skills
• Comforting distressed children
• With parental consent

Photography and Social Media

• Written parental consent required
• Designated photographer only
• No personal devices used
• No identifying information shared
• Secure image storage

Collection Procedures

• Authorised collectors only
• Password system
• Late collection policy
• Emergency contact requirements
• Non-collection procedures

Ratios and Supervision

• 1:8 ratio for over-5s
• 1:6 ratio for under-5s
• Additional support for SEND
• Two adults minimum present
• Clear line of sight maintained

Risk Assessment

• Regular venue assessments
• Activity-specific checks
• Individual child requirements
• Environmental factors
• Equipment safety

Information Sharing

• Need-to-know basis
• GDPR compliance
• Secure record keeping
• Confidentiality agreements
• Professional partnerships

Online Safety

• Controlled internet access
• Monitored device usage
• Social media guidelines
• Online behaviour expectations
• Parent communication systems

Vulnerable Children

Special provisions for:

• SEND participants
• Medical conditions
• Language barriers
• Cultural considerations
• Looked-after children

Allegations Management

Process for handling allegations against:

• Staff members
• Volunteers
• Other children
• Visitors
• External contractors

Whistleblowing

• Clear reporting channels
• Protection for reporters
• Anonymous options
• External reporting bodies
• No retaliation policy

Partnership Working

Collaboration with:

• Local authorities
• Police
• Health services
• Social services
• Other sports organisations

Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed:

• Annually
• After significant incidents
• When legislation changes
• Upon regulatory advice
• As required by governing bodies

Emergency Contacts

• Local authority safeguarding team
• NSPCC helpline
• Police
• Emergency services
• Local support services

This policy is effective immediately and applies to all Netball Kids activities across the UK.