Dorset Ladies County Golf Association
Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy
Dorset Ladies County Golf Association (DLCGA) is affiliated to the English Women’s Golf (EWGA) Association and our professional coaches are members of the Professional Golfers Association (PGA). DLCGA recognizes the policies of these Governing Bodies, as set out in Guidelines for Safeguarding Children in Golf.
Dorset Ladies County Golf Association (DLCGA) is affiliated to the English Women’s Golf (EWGA) Association and our professional coaches are members of the Professional Golfers Association (PGA). DLCGA recognizes the policies of these Governing Bodies, as set out in Guidelines for Safeguarding Children in Golf.
1 Policy Statement
DLCGA acknowledges its’ duty of care to safeguard the welfare of all children (defined as those under 18) involved in golf within the county. All children have a right to protection, and have their particular needs taken into account.
DLCGA will therefore endeavour to ensure the safety and protection of all children involved within the County through the Child Protection guidelines adopted by the Executive Committee of the County. It is the responsibility of all adults within the County to assist the Executive Committee in this endeavour.
DLCGA acknowledges its’ duty of care to safeguard the welfare of all children (defined as those under 18) involved in golf within the county. All children have a right to protection, and have their particular needs taken into account.
DLCGA will therefore endeavour to ensure the safety and protection of all children involved within the County through the Child Protection guidelines adopted by the Executive Committee of the County. It is the responsibility of all adults within the County to assist the Executive Committee in this endeavour.
2 Policy Aims
To provide children with appropriate safety and protection whilst attending County events.
To reassure parents that their children will receive the best practicable care possible whilst participating in County activities.
To provide support to staff and volunteers to make informed and confident responses to specific child protection issues and to fulfill their role effectively.
3 Principles
The welfare of the child is paramount.
All children have the right to be treated with dignity and respect.
All children, regardless of age, gender, racial origin, religious belief, sexual identity and any disability have a right to enjoy sport free from all forms of abuse or poor practice.
All suspicions and allegations of abuse and poor practice will be taken seriously and responded to swiftly and appropriately.
All staff and volunteers working in golf have a responsibility to report concerns to the County Welfare Office.
Adults, staff, volunteers, coaches, referees and members will be supported to understand their role and responsibility with regard to the duty of care and protection of children and young people.
Individuals will receive support through education and training to be aware of and understand best practice and how to manage any welfare or child protection issues that may come to light.
DLCGA will work in partnership with children, parents, golf clubs and national governing bodies to review and implement child protection and welfare procedures.
DLCGA policy and procedures are based on the above principles and UK and international legislation and government guidance and take the following into consideration:
The Children Act 1989 and 2004
The Data Protection Act 1994 and 1998
The Police Act 1997
The Human Rights Act 1988
The protection of Children act 1999
Caring for the young and vulnerable – Home Office Guidance for preventing the abuse of trust 1999.
The Criminal Justice and Court Services Act 2000
What to do if you are worried a child is being abused 2005
Working Together to Safeguard Children 2006
The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Any subsequent legislation relating to child protection would implicitly be incorporated into this statement.
4 Responsibilities and Communication
The DLCGA Child Protection Policy will be available to all members, parents, staff, volunteers and participants.
The Policy will be reviewed every three years by the Executive Committee. Guidance from EWGA will inform the review process.
The Executive has responsibility for ensuring that the policy and procedures are implemented, including taking any appropriate disciplinary action deemed necessary.
The County Secretary will ensure that all adults with a specific role with the juniors are checked by the Criminal Records Bureau.
The County Welfare Officer has responsibility for responding to any allegations concerns or child protection incidents, passing information to the appropriate National Governing Body Lead Child Protection Officer and informing the County Executive Committee.
Parents have a responsibility to work together with the County in implementing procedures and providing their children with the necessary information to safeguard themselves
5 Compliance and Sanctions
DLCGA will initiate an investigation as soon as possible if a complaint is made about an adult’s behaviour. EWGA and EGU procedures, as detailed in the Guidelines for Safeguarding Children in Golf, will be followed.
Child Protection Policy 2009