Statement
Otley Cycle Club acknowledges the duty of care to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and is committed to ensuring safeguarding practice reflects statutory responsibilities, government guidance and complies with best practice and British Cycling requirements.
The policy recognises that the welfare and interests of children are paramount in all circumstances. It aims to ensure that regardless of age, ability or disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation, socio-economic background, all children:
• have a positive and enjoyable experience of sport at Otley Cycle Club in a safe and child centred environment, free from bullying or exploitation.
• are protected from abuse whilst attending or participating in club activities.
Otley Cycle Club acknowledges that some children, including disabled children, young people and vulnerable adults or those from ethnic minority communities, can be particularly vulnerable to abuse and we accept the responsibility to take reasonable and appropriate steps to ensure their welfare.
As part of our safeguarding policy Otley Cycle Club will:
• promote and prioritise the safety and wellbeing of children and young people,
• ensure that vulnerable adults are able to join in with appropriate activities in a managed and safe manner,
• promote a healthy environment for children who wish to compete, encouraging this to be at the pace of maturity for that individual,
• ensure everyone understands their roles and responsibilities in respect of safeguarding and is provided with appropriate learning opportunities to recognise, identify and respond to signs of abuse, neglect and other safeguarding concerns relating to children and young people,
• ensure appropriate action is taken in the event of incidents/concerns of abuse and support provided to the individual/s who raise or disclose the concern,
• ensure that confidential, detailed and accurate records of all safeguarding concerns are maintained and securely stored,
• prevent the employment/deployment of unsuitable individuals,
• ensure robust safeguarding arrangements and procedures are in operation, including the safeguard of data.
The policy and procedures will be widely promoted and are mandatory for everyone involved in Otley Cycle Club. Failure to comply with the policy and procedures will be addressed without delay and may ultimately result in dismissal/exclusion from the organisation.
Club Welfare and Deputy Welfare Officers
Dave Bennett is the Club's Welfare Officer with Jules Palmer the Club's Deputy Welfare Officer.
Monitoring
The policy will be reviewed a year after development and then every three years, or in the following circumstances:
• changes in legislation and/or government guidance
• as required by the Local Safeguarding Children Board, UK Sport and/or Home Country Sports Councils and British Cycling
• as a result of any other significant change or event.
(Last reviewed April 2023)