Safeguarding For Young People and Vulnerable Adults

Policy Statement

Oswestry Chess Club promotes and develops chess in Oswestry and the surrounding area. It acknowledges the duty of care to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and young people aged up to 18 years and additionally vulnerable adults. To protect everyone from harm, the club is committed to ensuring safeguarding practice reflects statutory responsibilities, government guidance and complies with best practice. This policy recognises that the welfare and interest of children and young people are paramount in all circumstances as enshrined in the Children Act 1989. It aims to ensure that regardless of age, gender, religion or beliefs, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or identity or socio-economic background all children have a positive and enjoyable experience of chess, in a safe and child centred environment and are protected from harm and abuse whilst participating in chess or outside of the activity. It also aims to provide volunteers with the overarching principles that guide our approach to child protection. As part of our safeguarding policy Oswestry Chess Club will:

• Promote and prioritise the safety and wellbeing of children and young people
• Value, listen to and respect them ensuring everyone understands their roles and responsibilities in respect of safeguarding
• Provide appropriate learning opportunities to recognise, identify signs of abuse, neglect and other safeguarding concerns relating to children and young people
• Make clear who the designated person is for safeguarding and their roles
• Ensure appropriate action is taken in the event of incidents/concerns of abuse and support provided to the individual/s who raised or disclosed the concern
• Ensure that confidential, detailed, and accurate records of all safeguarding concerns are maintained and securely stored
• Prevent the deployment of unsuitable individuals
• Ensure safeguarding arrangements and procedures are in operation
• Share concerns with agencies who need to know, involving parents and children appropriately
• The policy and procedures will be widely promoted and mandatory for everybody involved in the club. Failure to comply with the policy on the procedures will be addressed without delay and may ultimately result in dismissal from the club.

Monitoring

The policy will be reviewed annually by the safeguarding officer and reported to the club officials at the AGM or in the following circumstances:

• Changes in legislation and or government guidance
• As required by the local Safeguarding Children Board
• Because of any other significant change or event.

This Child Protection Policy is approved by the Shropshire Chess Association. Contact details of Safeguarding Officer:philtiddy@icloud.com or 01691 659523