Halesowen Chess Club - Child Protection Policy Statement

Halesowen Chess Club (HCC) facilitates the playing of social and league chess games in Halesowen and the surrounding district. It acknowledges the duty of care to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and young people aged up to 18 years and is committed to ensuring safeguarding practice reflects statutory responsibilities, government guidance and complies with best practice.

HCC recognises that the welfare and interests of children and young people are paramount in all circumstances as enshrined in the Children Act 1989. It aims to ensure that regardless of age, gender, religion or beliefs, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or identity, or socioeconomic background, all children:

  • have a positive and enjoyable experience of chess in a safe environment;

  • are protected from harm and abuse whilst participating in chess.

It also aims to provide club members with the overarching principles that guide our approach to child protection.

HCC acknowledges that some children, including disabled children and young people 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 HCC will:

  • promote and prioritise the safety and wellbeing of children and young people;

  • value, listen to and respect children and young people;

  • ensure everyone understands their roles and responsibilities in respect of safeguarding and make clear who the designated Safeguarding Officer is and their roles;

  • 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 deployment of unsuitable individuals;

  • ensure robust safeguarding arrangements and procedures are in operation;

  • share concerns with agencies who need to know, involving parents and children appropriately.

The policy and procedures will be widely promoted and are mandatory for everyone involved in HCC, including its officers. Failure to comply with the policy and procedures will be addressed without delay and may ultimately result in dismissal/exclusion from the organisation.

Legal framework

This policy has been drawn up on the basis of law and guidance that seeks to protect children, namely:

Children Act 1989

United Convention of the Rights of the Child 1991

Data Protection Act 1998

Sexual Offences Act 2003

Children Act 2004

Protection of Freedoms Act 2012

 

Relevant government guidance on safeguarding children including: Working Together to Safeguard Children (2015).

 

Monitoring

The policy will be reviewed annually, or in the following circumstances:

  • changes in legislation and/or government guidance;

  • as required by the Local Safeguarding Children Board or the HCC Committe;

  • as a result of any other significant change or event.