Welfare
|
CRB Checks - Information |
ASSOCIATION OF RUNNING CLUBS
PROTECTION POLICY FOR
YOUNG AND VULNERABLE PEOPLE
|
For Printable PDF version click here (111KB) |
ASSOCIATION OF RUNNING CLUBS
PROTECTING YOUNG AND VULNERABLE PEOPLE
PROTECTION POLICY for YOUNG AND VULNERABLE PEOPLE
The Association of Running Clubs regards the welfare of all young people and vulnerable adults to be of paramount importance. In order to protect them from abuse, the Association is committed to taking all necessary steps to provide a safe environment for them to participate in running activities held under the auspices of the Association. To this end, the Association will establish, operate, review and update procedures :
which promote the safety from abuse of young and vulnerable people
which provide a channel through which concerns and allegations can be reported
for responding speedily to any
reports of concerns and allegations
DEFINITIONS
Young People’ Any person under the age of 18
‘Vulnerable People’ Any person aged 18 or over who
· is in need of assistance by reason of mental, physical or learning disability, age or illness and who;
· is unable to take care of him or herself or unable to protect him or herself against significant harm or serious exploitation which may be occasioned by the acts or omissions of other people.
‘Association of Running Clubs (ARC)’ The Governing body for Road Running Clubs in England also an affiliating body for clubs who engage in cross country running, trail running, fell running, walking and track and field athletics.
· All young and vulnerable people must be protected from abuse regardless of their gender, sexual orientation, disability, racial origin or religious beliefs.
· All suspicions and allegations of abuse will be taken seriously and responded to rapidly and in an appropriate manner.
· Working in partnership with other organisations, young and vulnerable people and their parents and carers is vital
ARC will work in partnership with the Police, Social Services Departments, and local Safeguarding Children’s Boards (LSCB) and Committees (ACPC) in accordance with their procedures. This is essential so that these organisations can carry out their statutory duties to investigate concerns and protect young and vulnerable people .
Everyone must be clear how to report a concern about the welfare of a young or vulnerable person. This means following the guidelines set out in this policy.
Section 2.0 - Protection in Running
2.1 Recruitment of volunteers and staff who may work with young or vulnerable people.
Grassroots running wouldn’t exist without the help of many thousands of volunteers.
However, we mustn’t lose sight of the fact that anyone may have the potential to abuse young or vulnerable people. Therefore all reasonable steps must be taken to ensure unsuitable people are prevented from working with young or vulnerable people. Careful recruitment and selection procedures will help to screen out those who are not suitable to work with the young or vulnerable.
2.1.1 Selection
· Use application forms to collect information on each applicant
· Ensure that more than one club member looks at each application form
· Ask for identification documents to confirm the identity of the applicant
e.g. passport or driving licence.
2.1.2 Interviewing
Meet with all applicants prior to any recruitment decisions being made
Ensure more than one club member is present
The interview will enable the club to explore further the information provided in the application form. The questions to be asked should be decided in advance and should provide the applicant with the opportunity to tell of his previous experience and say how they would handle situations.
It’s important to find out about an applicant’s technical capabilities and it is also necessary to confirm their commitment to the welfare of the young and vulnerable. Here are some examples of questions that could be used to discover this information:
Tell us your experience of working with young and vulnerable people.
Give a child related scenario and ask the applicant what they would do e.g. “it’s a winter evening and the training sessions finished. A parent has not arrived to pick up their child- what would you do?”
2.1.3 References
Request at least two references from people who are not related to the applicant. One reference should be associated with the applicant’s place of work and, if possible, one that demonstrates the individual has been involved in sport . References should be followed up prior to any offer of appointment being made. If the references raise any concerns you are advised to contact ARC for advice and guidance.
2.1.4 Criminal Record Bureau (CRB) disclosures
CRB checks are a tool in the recruitment procedure. A CRB Enhanced Disclosure tells ARC about a person’s recorded offences. It may indicate that a person is not suitable to work with young or vulnerable people, for example if they have a history of sexual offending or dealing in drugs. It could also tell ARC that further investigations are required, for example if the person has a history of racist offences.
ARC will take into account the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act and only consider offences which are relevant to the care, supervision and training of young and vulnerable people.
ARC is not allowed to tell the club about the actual offending and so applicants can be assured of confidentiality. ARC will however tell the club whether or not the person is suitable to work with children.
ARC have arranged a facility to handle CRB checks. CRB Disclosure Application Forms can be obtained from the Secretary of ARC
2.1.5 Appointing volunteers and staff
Clubs should consider all the information they receive via the confirmation of identity, the application form, the references and the CRB Enhanced Disclosure. This information should be considered alongside the outcome of the interview to make a decision as to whether or not to accept the applicant into their club.
2.1.6 After the appointment
Once a new volunteer has been recruited follow up action must be taken:
Qualifications must be substantiated e.g .inspecting coaching certificates
New volunteers are made aware of and sign up to the club’s policy for the protection of young and vulnerable people.
A decision is made on training needs
The new volunteer is supported by supervision and observation for an initial period.
2.2.1 The essentials
Every running club must have a policy for the protection of young and vulnerable people. All club members must understand the policy. This policy is the foundation of a good club. By adopting the ARC’s Protection Policy for Young and Vulnerable People (see Appendix 1) and implementing the key policies and procedures outlined below, best practice will become common practice.
Policies check list
· Young and vulnerable people policy statement
· Selection and recruitment policy
· A whistle-blowing policy
· Anti bullying policy
· Equality policy
· Codes of conduct for coaches.
· Health and safety policy
Procedures check list
· Club Welfare Officer appointed
· Procedures for reporting concerns about the welfare of a young or vulnerable person
· Complaints and disciplinary procedures
· A system for gathering parental consent
· Information for parents and carers
· Travel and overnight stay procedures
· A means for young people to express their views and have them heard
· For further guidance on how to implement the important policies (see Appendix 2)
2.2.2 Risk management
When planning trips you need to assess the risks. You should consider the following:
· What are the ages involved?
· Are there any special needs within the group?
· Is it a mixed grouping?
· Do you require someone who has first aid training?
It’s important to also consider your familiarity with the venue. Local sports centres will have guidelines on use and types of facilities, which you may or may not have access to. Also be mindful of social activities at the venue, which may or may not be known to you.
The principles for assessing potential risks remain the same whatever the activity, therefore you need to consider these. You must decide what ratio of adults to young or vulnerable people you consider to be appropriate to ensure their safety.
If the group is aged over eight years there should always be two adults and a minimum of one adult to ten children.
An adult is anyone over the age of
18. You may have volunteers who are not yet 18. They cannot be considered
an adult legally, therefore this affects the ratio of adults to young
people. However you could ask parents to come along in such circumstances.
You should consider the experience of the adults involved.
2.2.3 Relationships of trust
The influence an older person has over someone attending a group activity cannot be underestimated. If there is a competitive aspect to the activity and the older person is responsible for the young person’s success or failure to some extent, then the dependency of the younger member upon the older will be increased. It is therefore important for volunteers to recognise the responsibility they must exercise in ensuring that they do not abuse their position of trust.
Genuine relationships do occur between different levels of volunteers and participants in a group, however no intimate relationship should begin whilst the volunteer is in a position of trust over them.
ARC acknowledges that intimate relationships between teenagers take place and often no harm comes from them. However, it is also acknowledged that young people who suffer abuse often do so at the hands of other young people.
Remember: young people aged 16 –18 can legally consent to some types of sexual activity; however, in some provisions of legislation (under the Children’s Act 1989) they are classified as children.
ARC is currently awaiting the outcome of consultation re the Sexual Offences Act 2003 which currently applies to teachers to see if this law is also applied to coaches.
“It is an offence for a person aged 18 or over to involve a child under that age in sexual activity where he or she is in a specified position of trust in relation to that child. This includes those who care for, advise, supervise or train children and young people (Sexual Offences Act 2003)”
It is a breach of ARC Rules (see Appendix 3) for a coach to engage in an intimate or inappropriate relationship with a young person.
Section 3.0 – Poor Practice and Abuse
Young and vulnerable person abuse is a very emotive and difficult subject. It is important to understand the feelings involved but not allow them to interfere with our judgement about any action to be taken. It is also important that young and vulnerable person abuse and young and vulnerable person protection are openly discussed as this creates an environment where people are more aware of the issues and sensitive to the needs of young and vulnerable people. Open discussions also create environments that deter abusers.
The abuse of young and vulnerable people can occur anywhere. This includes sport, cultural, leisure, religious and care environments and on the transport to and from these places. Recent inquiries have also indicated that abuse which takes place within a public setting is rarely a one-off event. This means that if abuse is detected, it is highly unlikely to be the first time it has happened. It is therefore crucial that all allegations and suspicions are treated seriously and appropriate actions taken. A sport that tries to identify and report abuse creates a safer culture for young and vulnerable people.
Allegations may relate to poor practice where an adult’s or a peer’s behaviour is inappropriate and may be causing concern to a young or vulnerable person within a running setting. Poor practice includes any behaviour that contravenes Codes of Conduct, infringes an individual’s rights and/or reflects a failure to fulfil the highest standards of care. Poor practice is unacceptable in running and will be treated seriously with appropriate actions taken. Sometimes a young or vulnerable person may not be aware that practice is poor or abusive and they may tolerate behaviour without complaint. Examples of this is a child with a disability who is used to being excluded from activities or a bullied young person who is used to being mocked. Children may also be used to their race being abused . This does not make it acceptable.
Many young people will lack the skills or confidence to complain and it is therefore extremely important that adults in the club speak up for the young people when this is necessary.
For information about the categories of abuse and signs and indicators (see Appendix 4)
3.1 Particular Groups vulnerable to abuse
This young and vulnerable persons protection policy is applicable to all and the same actions should be taken regardless of the needs and background of the young or vulnerable person. ARC knows however that some young people are disadvantaged by their experiences and would want to emphasise the following
3.1.1 Young people with disabilities
Young people with disabilities are additionally vulnerable because they may:
· Lack a wide network of friends who could support them
· Have significant communication difficulties- this may include limited verbal communication, they may use sign language or other forms of non verbal communication.
· Have a reduced capacity to resist either verbally or physically
· Not be believed
· Depend on the abuser for their involvement in sport
· Lack access to peers to discover what is acceptable behaviour
· Have medical needs that are used to explain abuse
· Require intimate care
3.1.2 Young people from minority ethnic groups
Young people from minority ethnic groups are additionally vulnerable because they may be:
Experiencing racism
Being ignored by people in authority
Subject to myths
Wanting to fit in and not make a fuss
Using or learning English as a second language
Afraid of further abuse if they complain
3.1.3 Young people who take on leadership roles
Taking on a leadership role within running should be an enjoyable and learning experience. However coaches, runners and parents often lose sight of the fact that an individual in a leadership role who is under 18 is legally a young person. It is important that clubs realise that they must ensure that other young people behave appropriately towards young people who take on such roles. Overly critical and unsupportive responses may constitute verbal or emotional abuse.
3.1.4 Reducing the potential for abuse
Bearing in mind that young and vulnerable people are disadvantaged by these and other experiences, it is important for clubs to be extra vigilant in creating a safe culture, including:
Understanding and communicating with all young and vulnerable people
Ensuring best practice at all times in physical and health care
Respecting cultural differences
Building relationships with parents and carers and including families in club activities
Observing carefully changes in mood, appearance and behaviour and discussing those concerns with families, carers or the designated person if suspicions or concerns are significantly aroused about the care of the young person
Realise that disabled young people are additionally vulnerable and that vigilance is essential
Realise that abusive behaviour directed towards a minor whilst they are carrying out a leadership role is not acceptable and must be reported to the designated person as poor practice or abuse
Acceptance of the special role club officials have in setting a good example of the way in which people should behave towards young people
It may be necessary to ask specialist agencies for help and advice in order to include some young people in running. It should be seen as a strength of the club to approach families, Education, Health, Social Services, voluntary agencies and community groups for advice on including and protecting particular children.
No one deserves to be the victim of bullying. Everyone has the right to be treated with respect. ARC will not accept or condone bullying in running and has defined bullying as a category of abuse. It is the responsibility of everyone in running, whatever their role, to ensure that bullying is dealt with in an appropriate manner.
Bullying can be defined as:
Physical: hitting, kicking and theft
Verbal: name-calling, constant teasing, sarcasm, racist or homophobic taunts, threats and gestures
Emotional: tormenting, ridiculing, humiliating and ignoring
Bullying can take place anywhere but is more likely to take place where there is inadequate supervision.
A bully in running can be:
· A coach or manager who has a win at-all-costs philosophy
· A parent who pushes too hard
· A child or young person intimidating another
The damage inflicted by bullying can be underestimated. It can cause much distress to young people, in some cases affecting their health and development. In extreme circumstances it can lead to self-harm. For more information on developing an anti-bullying policy (see Appendix 2)
3.2.1 Taking a proactive approach
Ensure ARC’s definition of bullying and it’s anti-bullying policy is promoted
Ensure that all signs of bullying are taken seriously
Ensure clubs have codes of conduct of which an anti-bullying policy is a part
Have an environment that encourages children and young people to share their concerns
Section 4.0- Responsibility for Protection in Running
We all have a moral and legal responsibility for the safety and protection of young and vulnerable people within running. However, there are people designated who take additional responsibility for protection of the young and vulnerable with the aim of making running as safe as possible for all concerned.
The title “designated person” is a term that applies to an individual that is appointed by clubs. The designated person for young and vulnerable person protection should be clearly identified in every club.
The designated person holds a position of responsibility. ARC requires that before appointment, the potential designated person is considered to be a “fit and proper person” to hold the position as defined in Appendix 5. ARC also requires that all designated persons are approachable and have a child-centred approach.
The designated person needs to attend a Child Protection Course and must have completed a CRB Enhanced Disclosure.
Every club who have young or vulnerable people in their care must appoint a Club Welfare Officer (CWO) who will also be part of the Club Management Committee. The CWO will promote best practice throughout the club and will deal with poor practice concerns in accordance with the club’s disciplinary process. Matters of a more worrying nature must be referred to the ARC Child Protection Officer (CPO). Confidentiality regarding concerns must be maintained on a strictly “need to know “ basis. Each CWO will be expected to:
Refer any club young or vulnerable person protection or poor practice concerns to the ARC CPO
Seek advice from the NSPCC Helpline if the ARC CPO is unavailable or in circumstances of child protection emergency
Seek advice from local Social Services or the Police in an emergency
Encourage the club to discuss and implement ARC’s Protection Policy for Young and Vulnerable People.
Make the club use ARC’s Young and Vulnerable People Guidelines on recruiting volunteers, always requesting and following up references
Insist that the CRB Disclosure be used as part of the club’s protection policy
Encourage the club to discuss and implement ARC’s Young and Vulnerable People Guidelines on the use of images and organising travel, trips and events..
Help the club in identifying those who require a CRB disclosure
Promote the benefits of a young and vulnerable people protection and best practice education and awareness programme.
Section 5.0- Responding to Concerns, Allegations and Disclosures*
The term disclosure in this context is used to describe the sharing of child protection concerns by one individual to another and it is not the Criminal Record Bureau’s formal record of an individual’s convictions
There is a legal and moral duty to report any concerns about a young or vulnerable person. ARC will support anyone who, in good faith, reports his or her concern that a person is, or may be abusing a young or vulnerable person, even if that concern is shown to be unfounded.
The following guidelines apply whether or not the young or vulnerable person is involved in running. You must follow the ARC procedures for any concerns that are related to your running club activities.
Concerns may arise because
· A young or vulnerable person informs you directly that he or she is concerned about someone’s behaviour towards them (see 5.1 & 5.2.1)
· You become aware, through your own observations or through a third party, of possible abuse occurring (see 5.2)
Most suspicions of abuse follow observation of changes in the young or vulnerable person’s behaviour, appearance, attitude or relationship with others. Your suspicions may develop over time (see Appendix 4 Signs and Indicators of Abuse)
Where the concern does not involve individuals in club activities, the matter should be reported to local Social Services or the local Police (see 5.2.6)
5.1 What to do if a young or vulnerable person discloses to you
If a young or vulnerable person informs you directly that they are concerned about someone’s behaviour towards them, this is known as a disclosure. The person receiving the disclosure should:
· React calmly so as not to frighten the young or vulnerable person
· Tell the young or vulnerable person that he or she is not to blame and he or she was right to inform
· Take what the young or vulnerable person says seriously
· If the young or vulnerable person needs immediate medical treatment, take them to hospital or telephone for an ambulance, inform doctors of concerns and ensure that they are aware that this is a young or vulnerable person protection issue.
· Ensure the immediate safety of the young or vulnerable person.
· Avoid leading the young or vulnerable person and keep any questions to the minimum. Ask only what is necessary to obtain a clear understanding of what has been said.
· Re-assure the young or vulnerable person but do not make promises of confidentiality or outcome. This might not be feasible in the light of subsequent developments,
· In the event of suspicion of sexual abuse do not let the young or vulnerable person bathe or shower until given permission to do so. Washing can destroy valuable evidence.
·
Inform the
parents/carers immediately unless you have specific reason not to e.g the
young person has named the parent/carer as the abuser. If this is the case
then contact
the designated person. If he is unavailable contact local
Social Services or the Police for guidance.
Whether informed directly by a young or vulnerable person, via a third party, or through your own observation at your club activities, you should follow the ARC Procedures outlined below and in the flow charts FC1, FC2, and FC3
· Ensure the immediate safety of the young or vulnerable person.
· If the young or vulnerable person needs immediate medical treatment, take them to hospital or telephone for an ambulance, inform doctors of concerns and ensure that they are aware that this is a young or vulnerable person protection issue
· Report the concerns to the designated person for young or vulnerable person protection , unless the concern is about the designated person (see below)
· If the designated person is not available, or the concern is about this person, report your concerns directly to the local Social Services, the local Police or the NSPCC Child Protection Helpline
· These agencies will advise you whether a formal referral to Social Services is necessary and what further action you might need to take. If you are advised to make a formal referral make it clear to Social Services or the Police that this is a young or vulnerable person protection referral.
· All police forces have dedicated Child Protection Teams (CPT’s) which deal with allegations of abuse within the family setting and by people in a position of trust. In a real emergency dial 999 .
· Remember if the concern is about someone involved within your club and you are unable to contact the designated person, then you should inform the ARC CPO and let them know what action, in line with ARC procedures, you have taken.
5.2.1 Dealing with possible poor practice or abuse in a running club setting
The flow diagrams FC1, FC2, and FC3 explain how to deal with a concern about possible poor practice or young or vulnerable person abuse within a running club setting. The following definitions relating to poor practice and abuse will help you to decide whether the issue is likely to be poor practice or abuse. If you are at all unsure seek guidance from your CWO or ARC CPO as appropriate.
If you decide the concern relates to poor practice follow chart 1 - FC1 . If you decide that the concern relates to abuse use chart 2 - FC2
5.2.2 Distinguishing between young or vulnerable person abuse and poor practice
Concerns identified as young or vulnerable person abuse will fall within the following five categories:
Physical Abuse
A young or vulnerable person is physically hurt or injured by an adult or an adult gives alcohol or drugs to a young person
Neglect
A child’s basic physical needs are consistently not met or they are regularly left alone or unsupervised
Emotional Abuse
Persistent criticism , denigrating or putting unrealistic expectations on a young or vulnerable person
Sexual Abuse
An adult or peer uses a young or vulnerable person to meet their own sexual needs
Bullying
Persistent or repeated hostile and intimidating behaviour towards a young or vulnerable person
Incidents of poor practice occur when the needs of young and vulnerable people are not afforded sufficient priority with the result that their welfare is affected. Some examples are :
· When insufficient care is taken to avoid injuries (e.g by excessive training or inappropriate training for the age, maturity, experience and ability of the young people)
· Giving continued and unnecessary preferential treatment to individuals and regularly or unfairly rejecting others (e.g singling out and focusing on the more talented runners )
· Ignoring health and safety guidelines
· Allowing abusive or concerning practices to go unreported (e.g a coach who ridicules and criticizes runners after a poor race)
Please note
The judgement about whether an incident is one of young or vulnerable person abuse or poor practice may not be able to be made at the point of referral, but only after collection of relevant information
The majority of poor practice concerns can be dealt with by the club but the ARC CPO can be consulted for support and guidance .
All young or vulnerable person abuse will be dealt with by ARC (in conjunction with the statutory agencies)
For further clarification concerning abuse concerns (see Appendix 4)
5.2.3 Flow chart 1; dealing with possible poor practice in a running club setting
1 You become aware of a poor practice and/or possible abuse situation
2 · Stay calm
· If young or vulnerable person is present reassure him or her they are not to blame
· Don’t make promises of confidentiality or outcome
· Keep questions to a minimum
3 Is the concern poor practice or young or vulnerable person abuse ?
4 For clarification concerning poor practice concerns see . If the concern is young or vulnerable person abuse follow flow chart 2 - FC2 , if the concern is poor practice -
5 Contact the CWO who will either
· Follow club procedures for a first report of poor practice, complete and submit the ARC Information and Referral Form to the ARC CPO for information only
· Seek advice from ARC CPO
6 Where appropriate the ARC CPO will either
· Give advice for the CWO to action
· Monitor the behaviour of individual or club as required
· Gather additional evidence
5.2.4
Flow chart 2; dealing with possible young or
vulnerable person abuse in a
running club setting
1 You become aware of a poor practice and/or abuse situation
2 · Stay calm
· If young or vulnerable person is present reassure him or her they are not to blame
· Don’t make promises of confidentiality or outcome
· Keep questions to a minimum
3 Is the concern young or vulnerable person abuse ? Yes
Is the young or vulnerable person in need of medical attention ?
If Yes Go to 4 If No go to 5
4
· Take
the young or vulnerable person to hospital or telephone for an
ambulance
·
Inform the doctor of your concerns in relation
to young or vulnerable
person protection issues (doctor will take appropriate action )
5 Refer to the Police and Social services for investigation. They will advise on
contacting parents
6 Inform ARC CPO as soon as possible.
7 Also make a factual record of events, utilising the ARC Referral and Information Form (Appendix 6). Forward a copy of the information recorded, including any
action taken, to the ARC CPO.
5.2.5 Concerns outside of a running club setting
You may receive information regarding the welfare of a young or vulnerable person who is involved in running, yet the concern itself does not relate to someone within the sport. In these circumstances (e.g the concern relates to the young or vulnerable person’s home or a social setting other than running ) you need to follow the ARC procedures outlined below
Follow the guidance at 5.1 onwards if the young or vulnerable person informs you directly
If your concerns are via a third person or through observation, report your concerns directly to the CWO
If you are unable to contact the CWO immediately refer your concerns directly to local Social Services or to the local Police
These agencies will advise you whether a formal referral to Social Services is necessary and what further action you might need to take. If you are advised to make a formal referral make it clear to Social Services or the Police that this is a young or vulnerable person protection issue referral
Make a factual record of events using ARC Information and Referral Form , indicating clearly whether or not the allegation refers to someone involved in running. Forward this to the ARC CPO.
5.2.6 Flow chart 3; dealing with concerns outside of a running club setting
(a) You become aware of a poor practice and/or possible abuse situation outside of a running club setting involving a young or vulnerable person who participates in running club activities
(b) Is the young or vulnerable person in need of medical attention
(c) If YES go to (d ) If NO go to (e )
(d) · Take the young or vulnerable person to hospital or telephone for an ambulance
· Inform doctor of your concerns in relation to young or vulnerable person protection issues
· The doctor will take appropriate action
(e ) Can you contact the CWO immediately ?
If YES go to (f) If NO go to (g)
(f) Inform the CWO immediately and they will (go to (h) )
(g) Inform the CWO as soon as possible. Also
(h) · Seek advice immediately from the local Social Services, the Police or the NSPCC Helpline
· Take action as advised by these agencies, including advice on contacting parents
· Make a factual record of events using the ARC Information and Referral Form, and forward to the ARC CPO
· Indicate clearly whether or not the allegation refers to someone involved in running in any capacity
5.3 Recording of suspicions, concerns or events
Accurate recording is essential, as there may be legal proceedings at a later date
Referrals to Social Services should be confirmed in writing within 24 hours if not, then at the earliest opportunity
Keep a record of the name and designation of the Social Services member of staff or Police Officer to whom concerns were passed and record the time and date of the call in case any follow up is needed
Ensure all information is maintained in accordance with Data Protection Legislation
All information records maintained by both the club and ARC must be stored in a safe and secure place.
Information should only be shared on a strictly “ need to know” basis
Complete Appendix 6 (The Referral and Information Form) and send this to the ARC CPO.
5.4 The ARC Case Management System
In case of young or vulnerable person abuse or alleged young or vulnerable person abuse. The ARC Case Management System will
Decide whether any individual accused of abuse should be temporarily suspended pending further Police and Social Services inquiries (see Appendix 3 )
Assess all individual cases under the ARC misconduct and disciplinary procedures, irrespective of the findings of the Social Services or Police inquiries
Decide whether the nature of the concerns need to be dealt with by the ARC Disciplinary Committee.
Support the designated person in carrying out his/her responsibilities
Inform individuals when they are the subject of a young or vulnerable person protection concern and provide a point of contact to keep the alleged perpetrator informed of proceedings
Decide on any contact with the media
Monitor the poor practice and young and vulnerable person referrals.
Decide whether a member of staff or volunteer can be reinstated and how this can be handled sensitively
Decisions about reinstatement may be difficult. ARC advised by the Police and Social Services and/or the NSPCC, will reach a decision based upon the available information. This could suggest that, on a balance of probability, it is more likely than not that the allegation is true, regardless of any decisions relating to criminal prosecutions. The welfare of young and vulnerable people should always remain paramount.
5.4.1 Possible outcomes
Cases of poor practice will be investigated by the ARC CPO. Cases of young or vulnerable person abuse (having been dealt with by the statutory agencies) will be investigated by the ARC CPO who may refer the case to a Sub- Committee comprising three members of the ARC Committee. In these circumstances, the following outcomes are possible :
No case to answer
Advice and or warning as to future conduct
Supervision and or monitoring
Further support or training
Suspension
5.4.2 “Whistle- blowing”
Whistle-blowing is an early warning system. It is about revealing and raising concerns over misconduct within a club .
Any person or young person with concerns about a colleague can use whistle-blowing by contacting the ARC CPO.c/o 19 Sheephouse Green, Wotton, Dorking, Surrey RH5 6QW Telephone 01306 888886
Alternatively you can go direct to the Police or Social Services and report your concerns there.
5.4.3 Appeals
The appeals procedure is available to anyone who is subject to a decision made by the Disciplinary Sub Committee of ARC. Every individual and organisation wishing to appeal against decisions by ARC must do so in writing to be received by the Secretary ARC, 19 Sheephouse Green, Wotton, Dorking, Surrey RH5 6QW within 14 days of the date of notification of the decision appealed against. The appeal must identify the specific decision(s) being appealed and set out the grounds of appeal and the reasons why it would be substantially unfair not to alter the decision. The ARC Disciplinary Appeal Panel will exclude anyone who sat on the initial decision-making panel and will consist of an independent Chair and two other members.
5.4.4 Complaints procedures
A complaint may be made by an individual who has been the subject of a poor practice or young or vulnerable person concern that has been dealt with by the ARC CPO. Please note, any matters relating to appeals Disciplinary Hearings, Suspensions and the Rules of the Association and the Rules of the Sport will be separately dealt with under established procedures and are not the subject of a complaint.
In the first instance the complainant is required to contact the Secretary of ARC. It is hoped that he will be able to resolve the complainants concerns and give appropriate assurances regarding the management of the case in question. A record of this resolution will be made and copied to the complainant.
If the complainant is dissatisfied with the response and wishes to take the matter further, they are required to put the matter in writing to the Secretary of ARC within 28 days of the known outcome of the informal communication with the Secretary. The matter will then be considered by a Sub Committee of three Committee members of ARC.
5.4.5 Allegations of previous abuse
Allegations of abuse may be made some time after the event (e.g by an adult who was abused as a child about a volunteer who is still currently working with young or vulnerable people). Where such an allegation is made, you should inform the ARC CPO.
ARC will, following consultation, take the necessary action. This is because other young or vulnerable people, either within running club or outside, may be at risk from this person and anyone who has been abused has the right to be heard at any time. This position is reinforced by UK legislation and guidance.
5.4.6 Providing support
ARC will support anyone who, in good faith, reports his or her concern that a colleague is, or may be, abusing a young or vulnerable person, even if that concern is proved to be unfounded, in the following ways:
Via ARC CPO
Provision of specialist independent organisations contact details
NSPCC Helpline
NSPCC Child Protection in Sport Unit
Consideration will be given to what support may be appropriate for young and vulnerable people, parents or carers, volunteers and members of staff during and after poor practice and young and vulnerable person referrals to ARC.
It is never easy to respond to a child or vulnerable adult who tells you that they are being abused. You may well be feeling upset and worried yourself. Confidentiality is paramount. However, ARC acknowledges that having received a disclosure, individuals may have a need for some support. ARC has a list of Contacts which provides information on support groups and helplines for those who have received a disclosure.
Every effort will be made to ensure that any young or vulnerable person who has been subject to poor practice or abuse, and their parents or carers, will be given support from the appropriate agencies. A list of independent support groups and helplines is available from ARC for those who have experienced abuse.
Appendix 1- Club Protection Policy for Young and Vulnerable People
INSERT NAME Running Club
1 Young and Vulnerable Person Protection Policy
_________________________________Running Club acknowledges its responsibility to safeguard the welfare of every young and vulnerable person who has been entrusted to its care and is committed to working to provide a safe environment for all of its members. A child or young person is anyone under the age of 18 engaged in any running club activity. A vulnerable adult is defined as any person aged 18 or over who
· Is in need of assistance by reason of mental, physical or learning disability, age or illness and who;
· Is unable to take care of him or herself or unable to protect him or herself against significant harm or serious exploitation which may be occasioned by the act or omissions of other people.
We subscribe to the ARC Protection Policy for Young and Vulnerable People and the Procedures and Guidelines included therein. We endorse and adopt the Policy Statement contained in that document
2 The key principles of the ARC Protection Policy for Young and Vulnerable People are that:
The welfare of the young or vulnerable person is the most important consideration
All young and vulnerable people must be protected from abuse regardless of their gender, sexual orientation, disability, racial origin or religious beliefs.
All suspicions and allegations of abuse will be taken seriously and responded to rapidly and in an appropriate manner.
Working in partnership with other organisations, young and vulnerable people and their parents/carers is vital.
3 We recognise that every young or vulnerable person who participates in our sport should be able to take part in a safe environment and be protected from poor practice and abuse.__________________ Running Club acknowledges that this is the responsibility of every adult involved in our club
4_____________________Running Club has a role to play in protecting the welfare of all young and vulnerable persons by guarding them from physical, sexual or emotional harm and from neglect or bullying. It is accepted that the ARC Regulations (see Appendix 3) apply to everyone in our sport whether in a paid or voluntary capacity. This applies whether you are a volunteer, helper, coach, or club official.
We endorse and adopt ARC’s Protection Policy for Young and Vulnerable People and the best Practice Guidelines for recruiting volunteers and will :
Request identification documents
Meet or interview the applicant
Request and follow up two references before appointing
Require a CRB Unit Enhanced Disclosure where appropriate
All current______________________Running Club members with direct access to young and vulnerable people will be required to complete a CRB Enhanced Disclosure. If there are concerns regarding an individual who is already involved or who has approached us to become part of
____________Running Club guidance will be sought from ARC. It is accepted that ARC will consider the relevance and significance of the information obtained via the CRB Unit and that all decisions will be made in the best interests of young and vulnerable people.
It is accepted that ARC aims to prevent people with a history of relevant and significant offending from having contact with young and vulnerable people and training with young or vulnerable people. This is to prevent direct sexual or physical harm to young or vulnerable people and to minimise the risk of “grooming” within running.
5_______________________Running Club supports ARC’s Whistle-blowing Policy. Any adult or young person with concerns about a colleague can whistle-blow by writing to the Secretary, ARC, 19 Sheephouse Green, Wotton, Dorking, Surrey RH5 6QW or by telephoning the Secretary on 01306 888886 or by going direct to the Police, Social Services or the NSPCC.____________________________Running Club encourages everyone to know about it and utilise it if necessary.
6______________________Running Club has appointed a Club Welfare Officer (CWO) in line with ARC’s role profile. The post holder will or has attended a suitable course to provide training. The CWO is the first point of contact for all club members and parents/carers regarding concerns for the welfare of any young or vulnerable person. They liaise directly with the ARC CPO and will be familiar with the procedures for referring any concerns. They will also play a proactive role in increasing an awareness of poor practice and abuse amongst club members.
7 We acknowledge and endorse ARC’s identification of bullying as a category of abuse. Bullying of any kind is not acceptable at our club. If bullying does occur, all runners or parents/ carers should be able to inform and know that incidents will be dealt with promptly. Incidents need to be reported to the CWO or member of the committee or alternatively in cases of serious bullying contact the ARC CPO.
8 Codes of conduct for young people, parents/carers and coaches have been implemented by______________________Running Club. In order to validate these codes of conduct the club has clear sanctions to deal with any misconduct at club level and acknowledges the possibility of potential sanctions which may be implemented by ARC in more serious circumstances. All prospective members under 18 years of age will be informed of these codes.
9 Further advice on Child and Vulnerable Adult Protection matters can be obtained from
The NSPCC Child Protection 24-Hour Helpline
Appendix 2- Protection Policy Corner Stones
Anti-bullying policy for running clubs
Guidance for developing a club health and safety policy
Guidance for developing a club complaints and disciplinary policy
Code of conduct for coaches
The ARC Equality Policy
Equality Policy for clubs
Club complaints Procedure
Anti-bullying policy for running clubs
Statement of intent
We are committed to providing a caring and safe environment for all our members so they can participate in running in a secure atmosphere. Bullying of any kind is unacceptable at our club. If bullying does occur, all club members or parents should be able to inform and know that incidents will be dealt with promptly and effectively. This means that anyone who knows that bullying is happening is expected to tell the Club Welfare Officer or any committee member.
What is bullying ?
Bullying is the use of aggression with the intention of hurting another person. Bullying results in pain and distress to the victim.
Bullying can be:
· E