Swinton & Worsley Community Chess Club Child and Vulnerable Adult Protection Policy

N.B.—The term child/young person used in this policy also applies to vulnerable adults.

Introduction

This policy applies to all club members, volunteers and visitors to the club (including parents and carers of children).

The purpose of this policy is:

• To protect children and young people who attend Swinton & Worsley Community Chess Club.
• To provide club members and volunteers with the overarching principles that guide our approach to safeguarding.

Swinton & Worsley Community Chess Club believes that a child or young person should never experience abuse of any kind. We have a responsibility to promote the welfare of all children and young people and to keep them safe. We are committed to practice in a way that protects them.

Legal Framework

This policy has been drawn up on the basis of law and guidance that seeks to protect children. It has been written with reference to materials from the NSPCC website and to the English Chess Federation’s (ECF) Child Protection Policies.

We recognise that:

• The welfare of the child is paramount, as enshrined in the Children Act 1989
• All children have a right to equal protection from all types of harm or abuse
• Some children are additionally vulnerable because of prior experiences or dependency

We will seek to keep children and young people safe by:

• Valuing them, listening to and respecting them
• Conducting risk assessments and following ECF Child Protection practices
• Sharing safeguarding information appropriately
• Recruiting volunteers safely with necessary checks

Procedures and Guidance

Recruitment of Volunteers

We ensure at least two adults are present in any session; informal transport arrangements are made only by legal guardians. Many volunteers have existing DBS checks.

All contact with children is to be initiated via their parents/legal guardians.

Photographs and Data Policy

• No personal details or full names with images
• No email/postal/phone data shared without consent
• Images used are general, with appropriate clothing
• GDPR standards followed; group emails use BCC

Parental Responsibility

Parents are responsible for transport unless club transport is arranged. Informal arrangements are personal responsibility.

Website Content

External links are checked but not guaranteed. Concerns should be reported to the Vulnerable Persons Officer.

Code of Conduct for Helpers

• Do treat everyone with respect.
• Do plan activities to avoid being alone with children.
• Do encourage open communication and report concerns.
• Do NOT engage in physical or suggestive behavior.
• Do NOT show favoritism or allow abusive peer activity.
• Team captains should always contact parents/carers for child selection.

Unacceptable Behaviour by Children

Clear, fair sanctions based on age and context should be applied. Physical punishment is prohibited.

Raising Concerns

Safeguarding Lead: Dr Simon Wright – 0161-746-8758 / 07759814499

• If danger is immediate, call 999
• Concerns may be raised directly with Social Services or police (101)
• Ensure records are kept and confidentiality is respected