This policy refers to a child as anyone under the age of 18 as defined by the Children Act 1989 and an Adult at Risk as anyone aged 18 or over, who has needs for care and support, is experiencing or is at risk of abuse or neglect, and as a result of those needs is unable to protect themselves against the abuse or neglect or the risk of it as defined by the Care Act 2014. All members of the Club should be aware of the policy.
The Orwell Yacht Club (OYC) is committed to safeguarding all children, young people and adults at risk taking part in its activities, from physical, sexual or emotional harm, neglect or bullying. We recognise that the safety, welfare and needs of children, young people and adults at risk are paramount and that any person, irrespective of age, disability, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual or gender identity or social status, has a right to protection from discrimination and abuse.
The OYC actively seeks to:
- Create a safe and welcoming environment, both on and off the water, where everyone can have fun and develop their skills and confidence.
- Run training and events to the highest safety standards.
- Recognise that safeguarding is the responsibility of everyone, not just those who work with risk groups.
- Treat everyone with respect and celebrate their achievements.
- Carefully recruit volunteers whose role brings them into regular contact with risk groups. When appropriate, they will be asked to provide a reference and an Enhanced Criminal Records Disclosure with Barred List check, will be applied for.
- Ensure all Club members are aware of the Safeguarding Policy Statement and Procedures, follow the Good Practice Guide and agree to abide by the Club’s Code of Conduct, Changing Room, Anti-Bullying and Photography, Images and Video Policies. Those volunteering with risk groups should also be aware of the Reporting Procedures Guide and Appendices -What is abuse? and What is bullying? (All these documents are available to view on the Club’s website).
- Respond swiftly and appropriately to all complaints and concerns about safeguarding, either outside or inside the Club.
- Regularly review Safeguarding procedures and practices in light of experience or to take account of legislative, social and technological changes.
Concerns:
Anyone who is concerned about a young member’s or adult at risk’s welfare, either outside or within the Club, should inform the Club Welfare Officers immediately, in strict confidence. The Club Welfare Officers will follow the OYC Reporting Procedures. In an emergency please contact one of the numbers below.
The OYC’s Club Welfare Officers:
Teresa Thorogood, Mobile: 07807 346752 / John Burnell, Mobile: 07770 402717 or Email:
RYA Safeguarding and Equality Manager:
Tel: 02380 012796 Ext 1
Suffolk County Council Child Protection:
Is it an emergency?
- 0808 800 4005 if you’re worried that a child or young person is at risk of neglect or harm, abuse
- the police on 999
- the NSPCC child protection helpline on 0808 800 5000
Suffolk County Council Adult Services:
Is it an emergency?
- 0800 917 1109
Revised July 2024