POLICY DOCUMENTS

The complete Policy Documents which have been approved by the Board are set out below.

PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED

Equal Opportunity Policy

Statement of Intent

Pontypool Golf Club Limited [the Club] in compliance with the Equality Act 2010 relevant English, UK and European legislation and all other statutory obligations, is resolute in its determination to pursue equality of status to all members, associate members, visitors, guests, volunteers, present and potential employees, servants, agents and service providers associated with the Club. It will endeavour to ensure that every person, as identified above, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity has a genuine opportunity to participate to their full potential at all relevant levels and roles within the Club.

Equality Policy

In accordance with the Equality Statement of Intent, the Board of the Club has produced the following Equality Policy. This policy shall be subject to annual review and shall remain effective (subject to minor changes determined only by legislation, by the need to make reasonable adjustments to practices procedures and policies, or as agreed by practical experience, in keeping with current legislation) during this period:

The policy will be available on the Club website;
No job applicant will be placed at a disadvantage by requirements or conditions which are not necessary to the performance of the job or which constitute unfair discrimination;
All members, visitors, guests, associate members, employees, agents, service providers and volunteers have responsibilities to respect, act in accordance with and thereby support and promote the spirit and intentions of the Policy;
All staff, agents and service providers will receive appropriate training.

Membership

The Club will ensure that each application for membership will be determined in accordance with the Club’s Equality Statement of Intent and Equality Policy. In order to comply with this, the Board has reviewed The Club’s Guide to Membership Policy and Procedure document and has made the necessary revisions to it.

Membership Rights

In 2011 The General Committee of the Club produced to the members of the Club at an Extraordinary General Meeting the Articles of Association, which had been drafted so that the Club fully complies with its Equal Opportunities Statement of Intent and Equality Policy. The members overwhelmingly approved the said Articles of Association.
The Articles of Association authorise the Board to make Rules for the better management of the Club. The Board has approved amendments to the Rules of the Club, which amendments were made to ensure that those of the operations of the Club governed by the Rules comply with the Equal Opportunities Statement of Intent and Equality Policy.

Course Access

General

All members shall enjoy equal access to the golf course at all times save only where there are gender or age specific competitions;
Conditions of Entry to Club competitions shall be as specifically identified in the relevant Conditions Governing Competitions in force from time to time;
The playing of designated competitions shall take precedence within the competition calendar of the Club;
Where it can be identified that the preponderance of male competitions denies equal access to females at weekends the Club will ensure that suitable alternative opportunities for weekend play for females are included in the playing calendar, the details of which will be easily accessible to all members;
When general play conditions prevail, access to the course shall be in accordance with the tee time booking procedure and shall allow for equal access to all categories of members.

Exemptions

The Club reserves the right to limit competition to specific age or gender groups where this is necessary to ensure equitable, safe and equal competition. The Club may take positive action in providing opportunities to increase the inclusion of people from under-represented groups.

Compliance

The Board will regularly review the Club’s operations to ensure that the requirements of the Equality Act and the terms of this Equality Statement of Intent and Policy are being adhered to.

Complaints

The content of this document applies equally to members, associate members, visitors, guests, employees, servants, agents and service providers of the club. The day to day responsibility for the implementation of the Equality Policy will rest with the Secretary;
Any complaint or grievance should be communicated to the Secretary. The General Committee will then decide how the complaint should be investigated and resolved.

Agreed by the Board of Directors of Pontypool Golf Club Limited on the 27th September 2023.

The next annual review date for this Policy Document will be:

Date: September 2024

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PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED

Equality and Diversity Policy

1. Background

1.1 Pontypool Golf Club Limited is committed, both as an employer and as a deliverer of services, to ensure that no recipient of services provided by the club receives less favourable treatment on any grounds such as a person's age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, ethnic or national origin, nationality or colour, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation (known as protected characteristics).

1.2 Pontypool Golf Club Limited is committed to ensuring that institutional racism and discrimination in general does not exist within our club.

2. Policy Statement

Pontypool Golf Club Limited is firmly committed to providing and promoting equality for all its employees, members and visitors to its facilities. The inclusion of all individuals and the equality of opportunity are key objectives of the club. The club has adopted an equality strategy that will ensure equality influences the way we provide services. To achieve this we will endeavour to create an environment in which there is respect for every individual and recognition that no employee, potential employee, member or visitor will be discriminated against irrespective of their race, colour, religion, beliefs, ethnicity, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, transgender, disability or age.

3. Scope

This policy applies to all Pontypool Golf Club Limited services, employees, officials, members, partners and contractors and is supported by the Board of Directors.

4. Purpose of the Policy

4.1 Pontypool Golf Club Limited is committed to eliminating discrimination from all its practices. Our aim is to positively influence individual behaviour and to create an environment that promotes equality of treatment and of opportunity.

4.2 This policy is both evidence of and clarification of Pontypool Golf Club Limited's commitment not to discriminate in its employment or membership practices and procedures on the grounds of race, colour, religion, beliefs, ethnicity, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, transgender, disability or age. Many of these areas are covered by legislation or codes of practice, others may not be. However it is intended that no employee, potential employee, official or member shall receive less favourable treatment because of any of the above or be disadvantaged by any other condition or requirement which cannot be justified.

4.3 The Equality Act 2010 provides protection from discrimination in relation to certain "protected characteristics", namely:

Age
Disability
Sex
Sexual Orientation
Race
Religion or Belief
Marriage and Civil Partnership
Gender Reassignment
Pregnancy and Maternity

5. Forms of Discrimination

Discrimination can take many guises including verbal, physical and online conduct and can occur to both existing employees, officers, members and visitors.

Direct discrimination occurs if a person is treated less favourably than someone else because of a protected characteristic.

Indirect discrimination occurs when a neutral practice is imposed on a group of people which has the effect of putting persons with a protected characteristic at a particular disadvantage when compared to others who do not share it.

Positive Discrimination is illegal, for example, it is illegal to employ someone purely on the basis of their race, gender etc. However, it is legal to implement positive action strategies to address inequalities in the composition of the workforce.

Harassment is any unwanted conduct related to one of the protected characteristics, which has the purpose of violating a person's dignity or creating an offensive, degrading, humiliating, intimidating or hostile environment for him / her.

Victimisation is when a person is treated less favourably than others because it is known that they are taking proceedings or acting as a witness under a particular Act.

Disability Discrimination is defined as when a person with a mental or physical impairment which impacts on their ability to carry out normal duties / activities is treated less favourably than others because of it.

Bullying includes behaviour which is offensive, intimidating, malicious, and insulting or an abuse of power intended to undermine, humiliate, denigrate or injure.

6. Responsibilities

Pontypool Golf Club Limited will:

6.1 Be responsible for advocating equality in golf and will encourage people regardless of their background, ability or any of the protected characteristics;

6.2 Ensure all tournaments and activities at the club are administered in a fair and equitable way (except where specific situations and conditions prevent this);

6.3 Monitor and review all club policies to ensure that they are promoting equality and diversity;

6.4 Provide appropriate training to club officials, volunteers and staff so as to raise awareness of both the collective and individual responsibilities;

6.5 Will be responsible for dealing with any allegations of breaches of the policy through the club’s disciplinary process;

6.6 Publish the policy on the club's website.

7. Complaints

7.1 Employees, officials or members who feel that they have been the subject of discrimination and that this situation cannot/ has not been resolved informally, should inform the Club Directors or the Club Welfare officer of their concerns in writing or by email. If the Directors cannot resolve the issue to the satisfaction of the complainant, the Directors will ask the Club Welfare Officer to formally investigate the matter and report back to the Directors. The complaint will be dealt with as quickly as possible and anyone raising a complaint will not be penalised for doing so.

7.2 Pontypool Golf Club Limited requires that everyone should be treated with dignity and respect and will not tolerate any form of discrimination. It will take seriously any complaints by staff, officials or members in relation to other colleagues and will fully investigate these complaints.

7.3 If the complaints are substantiated, appropriate action will be taken.

8. Monitoring

8.1 Pontypool Golf Club Limited will ensure that its Equality and Diversity Policy and practices are regularly monitored in order that the success of its aims and objectives can be measured and continuous improvements made.

8.2 The Equality and Diversity Policy will be reviewed in the light of any new legislation and in any event will be reviewed every three years.

Agreed by the Board of Directors of Pontypool Golf Club Limited on the 27th September 2023.

The review date for this Policy Document is at the latest every three years and the next review will be:

Date: July 2026

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PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED

Children and Young People

Safeguarding Policy and Procedures

Contents

	Page
Safeguarding Policy Statement
Procedures:
Recruitment and training	4 & 5
Complaints, concerns and allegations	5 & 6
Flow Charts	7 & 8
Emergencies and incidents	9
Supervision	10
Good Practice Guidelines	11 - 14
Useful Contacts	15 & 16
Supporting Documents 1. Volunteer/Staff Job Application form Self-disclosure References Code of Conduct for coaches and volunteers Code of Conduct for Young Golfers Code of Conduct for Parents/Carers Managing Challenging Behaviour Safeguarding Concern Report Form Accident Report Form Junior Profile and Parental Consent Forms Photography Consent Parental Guidance Managing Young People on Away Trips Social Media Guidance Whistleblowing Policy Wales Golf DBS Flowchart Categories of Child Abuse Club Welfare Officer Poster Safeguarding Children and Young People – a short guide for club members Photography Policy Anti-Bullying Policy

Children and Young People Safeguarding Policy

INTRODUCTION

Whilst children and young people are participating in golf activities in our care, PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED has a responsibility to ensure their safety and wellbeing.

PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED recognises the policies of the National Governing body, as set in out in the “Wales Golf Safeguarding Children and Young People Policy and Procedures”.

PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED are committed to the fact that every child and participant in golf should be afforded the right to thrive through being involved in sporting activity for life, in an enjoyable, safe environment, and be protected from harm. PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED acknowledges the additional vulnerability of some groups of children (e.g. disabled, looked after children, those with communication differences including neurodiversity). PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED will seek to ensure that the environment is appropriate for each child, and tailored to their needs so that they have a positive experience of their sport without risk of harm. We will work with parents and carers to understand their child’s individual support needs.

The policy and supporting procedures set out a framework to fulfil our commitment to good practice and the protection of children in our care.

KEY PRINCIPLES

The welfare of children is paramount.
A child is defined by law in England and Wales as a person under the age of 18 years.
All children, regardless of their Age, Race, Religion or Belief, Disability, Gender identity or Sexual Orientation, have the right to protection from abuse.
All concerns and allegations of abuse and poor practice will be taken seriously and responded to swiftly and appropriately.
All children have the right to be safe.
All children have the right to be treated with dignity and respect.
PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED will work with children, their parents/carers and external organisations to safeguard the welfare of children participating in golf.
We recognise the authority of the statutory agencies and are committed to complying with all UK and Welsh legislation and statutory guidance in relation to child protection, safeguarding, information-sharing, data protection and safe recruitment and deployment, including:
- Children Act 1989
- Children Act 2004
- Human Rights Act 1998
- Mental Capacity Act 2005
- Mental Capacity (Amendment) Act 2019 and the Liberty Protection Standards (LPS)
- Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006
- Equality Act 2010 (please see Wales Golf Equality Diversity and Inclusion policy)
- Social Services and Well-Being (Wales) Act 2014
- Care Act 2014
- Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015
- Serious Crime Act 2015
- Wales Safeguarding Procedures (2019): https://safeguarding.wales/en/
- Working Together to Safeguard People: Code of Safeguarding Practice (Welsh Government, January 2022)
- Working Together to Safeguard Children (HM Government 2018, updated September 2022)
- Care and Support Statutory Guidance (Department of Health 2014, Updated January 2023)
- Keeping Children Safe in Education (Sept 2022)
- Keeping Learners Safe
- Sexual Offences Act 2003 (Note: Section 21 was extended in June 2022 to bring those working with children and young people in (paid or voluntary) roles in a sports context under the legislation relating to Positions of Trust)
- Welsh Government’s Children (Abolition of Defence of Reasonable Punishment) (Wales) Act 2020

This list is not intended to be exhaustive

PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED is committed to working in partnership with other key UK Golf Bodies to continually improve and to promote safeguarding initiatives across the sport.
PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED owes a legal duty of care to children on their premises or engaged in their activities. That duty is to take reasonable care to ensure their reasonable safety and the duty is higher than it would be for adults.

In accordance with the expectations set out by the Welsh Government*, PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED is clear that the need to have safeguarding arrangements in place for both children (up to the age of 18 years) and adults (aged 18 and over) is understood by our staff and volunteers. This policy, and the Club’s Safeguarding Adults Policy, seek to ensure that these expectations are understood and implemented consistently.

* Working Together to Safeguard People: Code of Safeguarding Practice (Welsh Government, Jan 2022)

OBJECTIVES

PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED aims to:

Provide a safe environment for children and young people participating in golfing activities and try to ensure that they enjoy the experience.
Ensure robust systems are in place to manage any concerns or allegations.
Support adults (staff, volunteers, PGA Professionals, coaches, members and visitors) to understand their roles and responsibilities with regard to their duty of care and protection of children.
Provide appropriate level training, support and resources for staff, volunteers & coaches to make informed and confident responses to specific safeguarding issues and fulfill their role effectively.
Ensure that children and their parents/carers are informed and consulted and, where appropriate, fully involved in decisions that affect them.
Reassure parents and carers that all children and young people will receive the best care possible whilst participating in club activities and communicate Policy and Procedure to them through website/letter/consents.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND IMPLEMENTATION

PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED will seek to promote the principles of safeguarding children by:

Reviewing their policy and procedures every three years or whenever there is a major change in legislation or statutory/National Governing Body (NGB) guidance. Guidance from Wales Golf will be sought as part of the review process.
Conducting a risk assessment of club activities with regard to safeguarding and take appropriate action to address the identified issues within suitable timescales.
Using appropriate recruitment procedures to assess the suitability of volunteers and staff working with children and young people in line with guidance from Wales Golf.
Following NGB procedures to report concerns and allegations about the behaviour of adults and ensuring that all staff, volunteers, parents and children are aware of these procedures.
Being clear that safeguarding is everybody’s responsibility and that this includes the need for effective information-sharing which is central to good safeguarding practice.
Directing staff, volunteers & coaches to appropriate safeguarding training and learning opportunities, where this is appropriate to their role.

1. RECRUITMENT AND TRAINING

1.1 PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED will endeavour to ensure that all volunteers and staff working with children and young people are appropriate and suitable to do so, and that they have all the information they require to undertake their job effectively and appropriately.

Each role which involves an element of responsibility with regard to children, particularly those involving the regular supervision of children, whether voluntary or paid, should be assessed by the recruiting body to establish which qualifications, checks and other requirements are necessary. These will include the following:

An application form (Appendix 1)
A self-disclosure form (Appendix 2a for roles that are eligible for DBS checks and Appendix 2b for roles that are not eligible)
Verified references from two appropriate people (Appendix 3)
A signed Code of Conduct (Appendix 4)
A Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check on people involved in ‘regulated activity’ with children (Wales Golf DBS Flowchart - Appendix 16)

Details of the requirements and the qualifications and checks of individuals will be recorded by the Club Welfare Officer/Secretary/Manager who will also hold copies of the necessary Safeguarding and Protecting Children (SPC) certificates. The nominated person will possess all relevant and appropriate contact details of all staff / volunteers and other relevant bodies.

1.2 All staff, volunteers & coaches will be offered access to appropriate safeguarding and child protection training. PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED recommends attendance at the UK Coaching Safeguarding and Protecting Children (SPC) workshop and will ensure that all volunteers and staff who have significant contact with children attend (go to https://www.ukcoaching.org/courses/workshops/safeguarding-protecting-children for details).

Attendance at the training or the Safeguarding Children renewal training must be refreshed every 3 years for those involved in regulated activity. The refresher module is available with the choice of two topical modules (Digital Kids and Positive Parents), see www.ukcoaching.org/courses/learn-at-home/sgp

1.3 All staff, volunteers & coaches working with children and young people will be asked to read and become familiar with the PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED Safeguarding Policy and Procedures.

1.4 All staff, volunteers & coaches involved with children and young people will be asked to read the PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED Code of Conduct relevant to their role, and sign to indicate their understanding and agreement to act in accordance with the code. The code is linked to the PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED’s Disciplinary Procedures. (Codes of Conduct-Appendix 4, 5, 6)

1.5 Positions of Trust

In June 2022 the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 created a new Section 22A of the Sexual Offences Act 2003 which extended legislation to include additional contexts and situations when an adult may have the potential to abuse their position of power and trust in relation children and young people. A ‘Position of Trust’ is a legal term that refers to an adult who is ‘regularly involved in caring for, training, supervising or being in sole charge of’ children and young people, whether voluntary or paid. The legislation has now been extended to state that it is illegal for those in positions of trust to engage in any form of sexual activity with a young person aged 16 or 17 in their care in sports organisations, faith groups and a restricted number of additional circumstances.

It is a breach of our Codes of Conduct for someone in a position of responsibility for young people to have an intimate or sexual relationship with a young person under 18 who they were responsible for, linked to disciplinary action. This also extends to evidence of grooming and/or developing inappropriate relationships with any participant under 18 with intent to pursue a future sexual relationship. This positive change extends the legal reach of the Sexual Offences legislation which was previously limited to statutory roles including teachers, care workers and youth justice staff. In a golfing context, Positions of Trust will be those roles where an individual is coaching, teaching, supervising training or instructing a young person on a regular basis. PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED will ensure that those carrying out these activities, those in leadership roles and safeguarding/welfare roles are aware of the expectations of their role and of positions of trust. PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED will always seek support from Wales Golf where concerns arise in relation to anyone in a Position of Trust.

Where concerns arise that may indicate potential abuse/a crime has been committed or thresholds for statutory agency consideration have been met, a referral to the police and/or social services will be made without delay and advice sought. All Club level action will be held pending the outcome of a statutory agency decision or investigation. During the course of any investigation however (internal, where thresholds do not meet statutory thresholds for intervention, or external), a temporary suspension may be imposed from golfing activities by the Club and/or Wales Golf whilst concerns are clarified and information is gathered. This is a neutral act intended to protect all parties and not an indication of guilt.

2. COMPLAINTS, CONCERNS AND ALLEGATIONS

2.1 If a player, parent/carer, member of staff or volunteer has a concern about the welfare of a child, or the conduct of another child/young person or an adult (whether they are a parent, coach, member, or otherwise), these concerns should be brought to the attention of the Club Welfare Officer without delay. The person reporting the concern is not required to decide whether abuse has occurred, but simply has a duty to pass their concerns and any relevant information to the Welfare Officer. Please refer to Flowcharts 1 & 2 for further details (see below).

2.2 All concerns will be treated in confidence. Details should only be shared on a “need to know” basis with those who can help with the management of the concern.

2.3 Concerns will be recorded on an Incident Report Form and sent to the Wales Golf Lead Safeguarding Officer and retained confidentially within the club. The Wales Golf Lead Safeguarding Officer will assist with completion of this form if required, tel: 01633 436040. (Safeguarding Concern Report Form Form-Appendix 8)

2.4 PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED will work with Wales Golf and other external agencies to take appropriate action where concerns relate to potential abuse or serious poor practice. The PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED disciplinary procedures will be applied and followed where possible.

2.5 In the event of a child making a disclosure of any type of abuse, the following guidance is given:

- Reassure them that they have done the right thing to share the information
- Listen carefully
- Do not make promises that cannot be kept, such as promising not to tell anyone else
- Do not seek to actively question the child or lead them in any way to disclose more information than they are comfortably able to: this may compromise any future action. Only ask to clarify your understanding where needed e.g. Can you tell me what you mean by the word xxxxx?
- Record what the child has said as soon as possible on an incident report form.

Do not notify the parents or carers unless you have first sought advice from Wales Golf Lead Safeguarding Officer tel: 01633 436040.

If the Wales Golf Lead Safeguarding Officer is not available and a delay cannot be justified then seek advice from the local Children’s Social Care department, the Police, the LADO (the Local Authority Designated Officer) or the NSPCC. (Useful contacts page 15 and 16)

2.6 The NSPCC Helpline is available to discuss concerns regarding poor practice and abuse in confidence with members of the public who need support. Those with concerns are encouraged to use this service. The Helpline number is 0808 800 5000.

2.7 Safeguarding children and young people requires everyone to be committed to the highest possible standards of openness, integrity and accountability. PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED supports an environment where staff, volunteers, parents/carers and the public are encouraged to raise safeguarding and child protection concerns. Anyone who reported a legitimate concern to the organisation (even if their concerns subsequently appear to be unfounded) will be supported. All concerns will be taken seriously. (Whistleblowing Policy-Appendix 15)

FLOWCHART 1

What to do if you are worried about what is happening to a child outside of the Club (but the concern is identified through the child’s involvement in golf)

If the Club Welfare Officer is not available contact the Wales Golf Safeguarding Lead Officer, Siân Simmons tel :01633 436040

email: [email protected]

or refer the matter directly to Children’s Social Care/Police.

Remember - delay may place the child at further risk.

Report your concern to the Club Welfare Officer* who will if necessary refer the matter to Children’s Social Care/Police without delay.

Make a record of everything that the child has said and /or what has been observed with dates and times, using the Safeguarding Concern Report Form.

Concern identified about a child

If the child requires urgent medical attention call an ambulance and inform the hospital doctor that you have a child protection concern

Complete a report form and copy it to Children’s Social Care/Police and to the

Wales Golf Governance Department within 24 hours.

* If for any reason a Club Welfare Officer is not in post or is unavailable a principle of least delay is important. Please contact the

Wales Golf Lead Safeguarding

Siân Simmons 01633 436040

[email protected]

FLOW CHART 2

What to do if you are worried about the behaviour of any member, parent/carer, volunteer, staff, Professional, coach or official in golf or affiliated organisations

Concerns identified

Complete the safeguarding Concern Report Form
Report to the Club Welfare Officer *
If you have urgent concerns or the Welfare Officer is not available, refer immediately to Children’s Social Care/Police and copy the incident report form to them within 24 hours.

If the child requires immediate medical attention, call an ambulance and inform the doctor there is a child protection concern.

PGA

Wales Golf Lead Safeguarding Officer

Siân Simmons

01633 436040

[email protected]

The Golf Case Management Group advises on the ‘route’ the case should take either within golf and/or via external agencies with Wales Golf making the final decision.

Alleged minor poor practice –Wales Golf Lead Safeguarding Officer to assist clubs in managing:

Complaints procedure
Disciplinary process
No further action

Possible processes

Child protection investigation
Criminal investigation/proceedings
Investigation under disciplinary proceedings – including possible temporary suspension of person accused

Golf’s investigation dependent upon outcome of advice from the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO)/Team or Children’s Social Care/Police investigation

Possible Outcomes:

No case to answer
Less serious – referred to complaints procedure
Disciplinary hearing – sanctions
Civil proceedings

Possible outcomes

No case to answer
Complaint resolved with agreement between parties
Training/mentoring agreed
Disciplinary sanction
More significant concerns emerge

Appeal

Alleged serious poor practice.

Poor practice with wider implications.

Alleged child abuse.

* If for any reason a Club Welfare Officer is not in post or is unavailable a principle of least delay is important. Please contact the

Wales Golf Lead Safeguarding Officer

Siân Simmons 01633 436040

[email protected]

3. EMERGENCIES AND INCIDENTS

3.1 Parental Consent Forms will be obtained and retained by PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED for all children who are participating in events or activities, or attending coaching organised by the club. These forms will be treated in confidence and only shared with those who require the information they contain to perform their role effectively. (Junior Profile and Parental Consent Forms-Appendix 10)

3.2 In the event of a child requiring medical attention:

The parents will be contacted immediately.
In the event of failure to contact parents, the alternative emergency contacts will be used.
The consent form will be consulted to establish whether parents have given their consent for a club representative to act in loco parentis.
An adult club representative will accompany the child to seek medical attention, if appropriate, ensuring that they take the consent form with them.
A record of the action taken will be made and retained by a club representative.

3.3 Where a parent is late in collecting their child the following procedure will apply:

Attempt to contact the parent/carer using the contact details on the Parental Consent Form
Attempt to contact the first, then the second emergency contact nominated on the Consent Form
Wait with the young person(s) at the venue with, wherever possible, other staff/volunteers or parents. Do not allow the child to leave with another parent unless you have written permission from a parent/carer to do so. This can be provided by text or email if the parent has been unavoidably delayed and makes contact with you.
All reasonable attempts should be made to contact the parents/carers but if no one is reachable, contact the Club’s Welfare Officer for advice*.
If all attempts to make contact fail and the child has not been collected one hour after the agreed finish time for the activity, a phone call should be made to Children’s Social Care or the local Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH).

Staff, volunteers and coaches should avoid:

Taking the child home or to another location without consent.
Asking the child to wait in a vehicle or the club with them alone.
Sending the child home with another person without permission.

*The child’s safety and interests should always be the focus. They should not be left unsupervised or alone whilst arrangements are agreed, and their feelings and wishes should be considered to ensure that they always feel supported and comfortable. All action taken and the decision-making process should be recorded (including the child’s emotional presentation, times, dates, those involved, and the record signed). If this is a recurrent concern, please contact Wales Golf’s Lead Safeguarding Officer for advice and support.

4. SUPERVISION

4.1 A rule of two should be followed. This rule effectively protects children and those working with them by ensuring that interactions are both observed and justified (in the context of coaching, playing, transport, video calls, phone calls and messaging) Best practice is that two responsible adults should be present, including the coach/Professional and a minimum of one other responsible observer who can be another Professional, volunteer or the child’s parent.

A responsible observer must be in view and occasionally within earshot of any interaction. They must also be known to the participant and/or the Club to satisfy this requirement (members of the public in the general vicinity would not satisfy this requirement). Any messaging for the purposes of coordinating coaching/playing activities should be directed to groups ideally and a responsible adult should always be copied in.

In circumstances where it is not possible to satisfy best practise as outlined above, one coach/Professional and two participants may be acceptable if they are in view and earshot. This should not however become accepted and normal practice. One adult (staff member, volunteer or Professional) and one unchaperoned participant is not acceptable.

Maintaining appropriate boundaries like the rule of two when working with children demonstrates safeguarding good practice and allows children and parents/carers to better recognise inappropriate or unacceptable behaviour. It also limits the ability of those with poor intent to normalise behaviour which can increase risks for children and young people.

4.2 During coaching sessions, coaches should conduct a risk assessment to inform decision making about appropriate supervision levels. Regardless of the recommended ratio of adults to participants, it is recommended that a minimum of two adults should be present. This ensures at least basic cover in the event of something impacting on the availability of one of the adults during the activity.

4.3 Parents may be encouraged to stay for coaching/competitions & other events where their children are of an age where greater levels of parental supervision are required.

4.4 Wherever possible adults will avoid changing or showering at the same time as children but parents will be made aware that with limited changing room space there will be occasions when adults and children may need to share the facilities (see Section 5.9 below).

4.5 Parents should be aware that if children are left at a venue unsupervised, other than to attend specific coaching sessions, competitions, or other organised events, the club cannot accept supervisory responsibility.

4.6 Special arrangements will be made for away trips. Parents will receive full information about arrangements for any such trip and will be required to provide their consent for their child’s participation. (Managing Young People on Away Trips-Appendix 13)

4.7 Where parents are involved in supervising groups of children during activities and events, they can provide valuable support to the Club which is hugely appreciated. Where they are responsible only for their own child (or, by agreement, their relatives’ or friends’ children), this constitutes a private arrangement outside the responsibility of the Club or event organisers. However, when parents undertake a formal supervisory role at the request of or with the agreement of the Club, which includes having responsibility for other people’s children, the same steps will be taken as for staff and volunteers to make sure they are suitable for the role (see Section 1.1).

5. GOOD PRACTICE GUIDELINES

5.1 Behaviour of adults and children

5.1.1 Adults who work with children holda position of trust (see Section 1.5) in relation to children, and therefore it is important they behave appropriately and understand their responsibility to provide a strong positive role model for children, both to protect children and those working with children from the impact of poor practice or concerns about behaviour including unfounded allegations. Codes of conduct will be issued to junior members & adults working with them to promote good practice.

5.1.2 PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED requires that all staff and volunteers working with children and young people adhere to the standards set out in the Code of Conduct relevant to their role. Similarly, children are expected to follow their own Code of Conduct to ensure the enjoyment of all participants and assist the club in ensuring their welfare is safeguarded.

5.1.3 PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED requires that all staff and volunteers working with children adhere to the guidelines on Managing Challenging Behaviour. (Managing Challenging Behaviour-Appendix 7)

5.1.4 Parents and carers should also work together with the club to ensure that the welfare of all children is safeguarded. Guidance for parents is provided in the appendices of this policy to assist them in understanding how they can best support the club (Parental Guidance-Appendix 12)

5.2 Adults and Children playing golf together

One of the reasons for the popularity of golf is that the game is not restricted by ability, age or gender. Responsible interaction between adults and children helps bring mutual respect and understanding and will be encouraged as part of club activities. Adults should always be aware however that age related differences do exist and conduct themselves in a manner that both recognises this and prioritises the welfare of any children involved and reflects the guidance in relation to supervision set out in section 4.1 above.

5.3 Physical Contact

Physical contact with children by coaches or volunteers should always be intended to meet the needs of the child and the sport, not the adult. That is, to develop golf technique, to protect the child from injury, to provide first aid or treat an injury. It should always take place in an open environment, and should not, as a general principle, be made gratuitously or unnecessarily. All exceptional circumstances where physical contact has been necessitated (e.g. a hug initiated by a child who is distressed) should be reported to the welfare officer and recorded. Many young people are struggling with emotional regulation and the impact of the pandemic and other pressures of modern life. By recording any exceptional incidents it may be possible to build a picture of support needs or concerns which is essential to enable positive interventions to be considered.

5.4 Transport

5.4.1 The club believes it is primarily the responsibility of parents/carers to transport their child/children to and from events. It is not the responsibility of club volunteers or coaches to transport children and young people to and from events, activities, tournaments or matches. Parents can, of course, make arrangements between themselves and inform the Club appropriately but this remains their responsibility.

5.4.2 The club may coordinate or make arrangements for transport in exceptional circumstances, such as team events. Where this is the case, the written permission of the parents of the relevant children will be sought. The drivers used will be checked for their suitability to transport and supervise children (see Section 1 Recruitment and Training) and their insurance arrangements verified.

5.4.3 Children and young people are often involved in competition. When taking young people away from their home club, consideration and planning needs to be paramount to ensure the duty of care for the young people within the team is fulfilled. The CPSU ‘Safe Sports Events’ guidance provides a comprehensive resource for event planning and in 2023 they also launched a new safer sporting events e-learning course for anyone who has responsibility for the safeguarding and child protection elements of event planning.

5.5 Photography/ Videoing

5.5.1 Permission will be sought from parents prior to the publication or use of any video or photographic images of their child, for instance in newspapers, websites or for coaching purposes. The personal details of the child will not be used in any promotional material. (Photography Consent-Appendix 11)

5.5.2 Any press/official photographers attending events will be required to seek permission from the club before taking photographs and also permission of parents to use the images. (Photography Policy – Appendix 20)

5.6 Social Media

Social media provides unique opportunities for the club to engage and develop relationships with people in a creative and dynamic forum where users are active participants. It is important that all staff, volunteers, coaches, officials/referees, board members, or anyone working on behalf of the club are aware of the club Social Media policy (Social Media Guidance–Appendix 14)

5.7 Anti Bullying Procedures

5.7.1We believe that every effort must be made to eradicate bullying in all its forms.

Bullying can be difficult to define and can take many forms which can be categorised as;

Physical – hitting, kicking, theft
Verbal – homophobic or racist remarks, threats, name calling
Emotional – isolating an individual from activities or a group

All forms of bullying include;

Deliberate hostility & aggression towards an individual(s)
A victim who is weaker and less powerful than the bully or bullies
An outcome which is always painful & distressing for the victim

Bullying behaviour may also include;

Other forms of violence
Sarcasm, spreading rumours, persistent teasing
Tormenting, ridiculing, humiliation
Racial taunts, microaggressions, graffiti, gestures
Unwanted physical contact or abusive or offensive comments of a sexual nature.

The Club and its Staff, Volunteers & Coaches will not tolerate bullying in any of its forms during club matches, competitions, coaching or at any other time while at the club. (Anti-Bullying Policy -Appendix 21)

5.7.2We will:

Provide a point of contact where those being bullied can report their concerns in confidence – The Club Welfare Officer.
Take the problem seriously and recognise the often significant impact upon victims of bullying.
Investigate any and all incidents and accusations of bullying.
Talk to bullies and their victims separately along with their parents/carers.
Impose sanctions where appropriate
Keep a written record of all incidents including those referred to Wales Golf and the action taken.
Have discussions about bullying to raise awareness of its impact and why it matters.

5.8 Confidentiality

5.8.1 Details of all juniors will be kept on file in the office and will not be shared with a third party without parent/carer consent.

5.8.2 All concerns/allegations will be dealt with confidentially by the club and information will only be shared on a need-to-know basis, either internally or externally depending on the nature/seriousness of the concern/allegation.

5.9 Changing rooms

The changing rooms are used by all members & visitors. Juniors will be supervised by two appropriate adults of the same gender as the children being supervised at club organised events. These adults will be subject to safer recruitment checks as set out in section 1.1. Parents will be made aware that adults use the changing rooms throughout the day for changing & showering. All children who are under 8 years of age should be accompanied, even if they are capable of changing by themselves. Where a parent/carer does not consent to their child accessing the changing rooms, it is their responsibility to either supervise the child while in the changing rooms or ensure that they do not use them.

6. Useful Contacts

Golf Contacts
Name	Address	Number
Club Welfare Officer – Leon Warne	Pontypool Golf Club Limited Lasgarn Lane Trevethin Pontypool NP4 8TR	Email: [email protected] Tel: 01495 763655
Deputy Club Welfare Officer		Mob: Email:
Wales Golf Lead Safeguarding Officer Siân Simmons Wales Golf Deputy Safeguarding Officer Linda Stokoe	Wales Golf Catsash Newport NP18 1JQ	01633 436040 [email protected] [email protected]
Club Secretary -	Mrs Dawn Scammell	Email:[email protected]

Local Contacts
Local Children’s Social Care (including out of office hours contact) NB. In an emergency, the Samaritans will hold the Duty Officer’s contact number	Tel 01495762200	OUT OF HOURS 08003284432 After 5pm or at the weekends please contact The Emergency Social Work Duty Team

Samaritans		08457 90 90 90
Local Police child protection teams In an emergency contact 999
NSPCC Freephone		0808 800 5000 (10am-4pm) [email protected]
NSPCC Whistleblowing Helpline for Professionals		0808 028 0285

Wales Safeguarding Hub
Safeguarding Adults in Sport Manager, Ann Craft Trust	Michael Harrison	Email: [email protected] Telephone: 02920 334975 Mobile: 07704885507
NSPCC Child Protection in Sport Unit	Cerri Dando-Thompson	Telephone: 02920 334975 Email: [email protected] Mobile: 07563383180

National Contacts
Childline UK	Freepost 1111 London N1 0BR	Tel: 0800 1111
NI Childline	74 Duke Street Londonderry	Tel: 028 90 327773
NSPCC Child Protection in Sport Unit	3 Gilmour Close Beaumont Leys Leicester LE4 1EZ	Tel: 0116 234 7278 [email protected]

7. Appendices

The forms set out in the appendix do not have logos attached to them, enabling PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED to utilise them, adding their own logos, as required.

Supporting Documents:

Volunteer/Staff Job Application Form – page 18
Self-disclosure forms – pages 21 and 25
References – page 28
Code of Conduct for Coaches and Volunteers – page 29
Code of Conduct for Young Golfers – page 31
Code of Conduct for Parents/Carers – page 32
Managing Challenging Behaviour – page 34
Incident Report Form – page 37
Accident Report Form – page 39
Junior Profile and Parental Consent Forms – page 41
Photography Consent – page 45
Parental Guidance – page 46
Managing Young People on Away Trips – page 48
Social Media Guidance – page 49
Whistleblowing Policy – page 51
Wales Golf DBSFlowchart – page 54
Categories of Child Abuse - page 55
Club Welfare Officer Poster – page 57
Safeguarding Children and Young People -

a short guide for club members – page 58

Photography Policy – page 61
Anti-Bullying Policy – page 63

Appendix 1

Volunteer / Staff Job Application Form - PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED

Position Applied for:

Personal Details

Title: Mr/Mrs/Miss/Dr/Other (please specify) ______________________

Full Name: ________________________________________________

Any previous surname: ______________________________________

Date and place of birth:______________________________________

National Insurance Number:___________________________________

Present Address:___________________________________________

________________________________________________________

Post Code:________________________________________________

Telephone Numbers:_________________________________________

Email address:_____________________________________________

Current Occupation:_________________________________________

Name and address of Organisation:_____________________________

________________________________________________________

Role:____________________________________________________

Start Date:________________________________________________

Any relevant skills and experience transferable from this role:

Other relevant Experience including any previous experience of working with children and young people or adults in need of additional care and support (Adults at Risk) in a paid, voluntary or familial context:

Reasons for applying:

References:

Please provide the names and addresses of two people who know you well (one personal, one professional – current or previous employer, who are not related to you) whom we can contact and verify to obtain a reference:

Name:

Address:

Telephone Number:

How do you know this individual?

Name:

Address:

Telephone Number:

How do you know this individual?

Data Protection Notification:

Information you have provided in completing this form will be used to process your application. PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED will keep the information you have supplied confidential and will not divulge it to third parties, except where required by law, or where we have retained the services of a third party representative to act on your/our behalf.

Authorisation:

I have read the Data Protection notification and understand and agree to the use of my personal data in accordance with the Data Protection Act 1998.

Signed: Date:

Declaration:

I confirm that the information I have provided is correct and that any false or misleading information may lead to the termination of my appointment.

Signed: Date:

Appendix 2a

PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED Self-declaration and disclosure form

for regulated activity roles eligible for a DBS, that involve contact with children (under 18 years old)

and/or Vulnerable adults (Adults at Risk)

To be completed at the same time as the application form:

Private and confidential

All information will be treated as confidential and managed in accordance with relevant data protection legislation and guidance. You have a right of access to information held on you under the Data Protection Act 2018.

Employee or volunteer information
Name
Address
Contact number(s)
Email address
Date of birth
Gender	Female ¨	Male ¨	Non-binary ¨	Another description or you do not wish to disclose (please state) ¨

Note: As the position you have applied for involves work with children, young people and/or Adults at Risk, it is not covered by the provisions in the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. When answering questions 1 to 4 you must declare criminal convictions and/or cautions that are not ‘protected’ under the Exceptions Order (as amended). This includes UK, overseas and armed forces convictions, cautions and relevant service discipline convictions where it would be considered an equivalent offence in England and Wales.

Free, confidential advice can be sought from the organisations below to help you understand whether to disclose certain criminal record information:

Nacro – Tel: 0300 123 1999, or email: [email protected]

Unlock – Tel: 01634 247350, email [email protected] or complete the online form on the Unlock website.

Declaration of individual

Do you have any unspent conditional cautions or convictions under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974?

Yes – please provide further information

Do you have any adult cautions (simple or conditional) or spent convictions that are not protected as defined by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (Amendment) (England and Wales) Order 2020?

Yes – please provide further information

Have you been formally charged with any other offence in any country which has not yet been disposed of?

Yes – please provide further information

Are you currently subject to any criminal investigations or pending prosecutions by the police in any country which may have a bearing on your suitability for this position?

Yes – please provide further information

Have you ever been known to any Adult or Children’s Services department or the police as being a risk or potential risk to children or vulnerable adults?

Yes – please provide further information

Have you been the subject of any formal action, disciplinary investigation and/or sanction by any organisation due to concerns about your behaviour towards children or vulnerable adults?

Yes – please provide further information

Have you ever been dismissed for misconduct from any employment, volunteering, or other position previously held by you, in circumstances which may have bearing on your suitability for this position?

Yes – please provide further information

Are you currently subject to any fitness to practise investigations or proceedings by a regulatory, governing, or licensing body in any country, which may have bearing on your suitability for this position?

Yes – please provide further information

Confirmation of declaration
Please tick the boxes below and then sign this form.
¨	I agree that the information provided here may be processed in connection with recruitment purposes and I understand that an offer of employment may be withdrawn or dismissal may result if information is not disclosed by me and subsequently comes to the organisation’s attention.
¨	In accordance with the organisation’s procedures, if required I agree to provide a valid DBS certificate* and consent to Wales Golf clarifying any information provided on the disclosure with the agencies providing it.
¨	I agree to inform Wales Golf within 24 hours if I am subsequently investigated by any agency or organisation in relation to concerns about my behaviour towards children or young people.
¨	I understand that the information contained on this form, the results of the DBS check* and information supplied by third parties may be supplied by Wales Golf to other persons or organisations in circumstances where this is considered necessary to safeguard other children.
Signature		û
Print name
Role(s) applied for
Today’s date

Appendix 2b

PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED Self-declaration and disclosure form

for non-regulated activity roles that involve minimal contact with children (under 18 years old) and/or

Vulnerable Adults (Adults at Risk)

Private and confidential All information will be treated as confidential and managed in accordance with relevant data protection legislation and guidance. You have a right of access to information held on you under the Data Protection Act 2018.

	Employee or volunteer information
	Name
	Address
	Contact number(s)
	Email address
	Date of birth
	Gender[i]	Female ¨	Male ¨	Non-binary ¨	Another description or you do not wish to disclose (please state) ¨

Note: All roles should be risk assessed to consider the level of engagement and opportunity to manipulate their role to cause potential harm to children and/or vulnerable adults (Adults at Risk).

This post is covered by the Offender Rehabilitation Act 2014[1] and therefore applicants are required to declare unspent convictions.

Free, confidential advice can be sought from the organisations below to help you understand whether to disclose certain criminal record information:

NACRO – Tel: 0300 123 1999, or email: [email protected] (England & Wales)

NIACRO – Tel: 028 9032 0157 (Northern Ireland)

Unlock – Tel: 01634 247350, email [email protected] or complete the online form on the Unlock website. (England & Wales)

Any disclosure will be considered and assessed in the context of the role description, the nature of the offence and the responsibility for the care of existing clients/volunteers and employees. Having unspent convictions will not necessarily mean that you cannot work/volunteer with us. The information provided may be assessed alongside normal selection criteria to determine suitability for the role that you have applied for. A separate arrangement will be made with you if clarification is required to discuss any issues around your disclosure before a final decision is reached.

Declaration of individual

Do you have any unspent convictions or conditional cautions?

Yes – please see the 2 options below

Option 1: You can disclose your criminal record on a separate sheet provided that, you mark a cross on the line below and attach the details in an envelope stapled to this form. The envelope should be marked CONFIDENTIAL and state your name and details of the post.

I have attached details of my conviction separately_____ (please mark with an X if appropriate.)

Option 2: Please provide details of unspent convictions or conditional cautions, in the space provided:

Have you been formally charged with any other offence in any country which has not yet been disposed of?

Yes – please provide further information

Are you currently subject to any criminal investigations or pending prosecutions by the police in any country which may have a bearing on your suitability for this position?

Yes – please provide further information

Have you ever been known to Adult or Children’s Social Care or the police as being a risk or potential risk to children or vulnerable adults?

Yes – please provide further information

Have you been the subject of any formal action, disciplinary investigation and/or sanction by any organisation due to concerns about your behaviour towards children or a vulnerable adult(s)?#

Yes – please provide further information

Have you ever been dismissed for misconduct from any employment, volunteering, or other position previously held by you, in circumstances which may have bearing on your suitability for this position?

Yes – please provide further information

Are you currently subject to any fitness to practise investigations or proceedings by a regulatory, governing, or licensing body in any country, which may have bearing on your suitability for this position?

Yes – please provide further information

Confirmation of declaration
Please tick the boxes below and then sign this form.
¨	I agree that the information provided here may be processed in connection with recruitment purposes and I understand that an offer of employment/volunteer role may be withdrawn, or dismissal may result if information is not disclosed by me and subsequently comes to the organisation’s attention.
¨	In accordance with the organisation’s procedures, if required I agree to provide a valid DBS Basic Check* and consent to Wales Golf clarifying any information provided on the disclosure with the agencies providing it.
¨	I agree to inform Wales Golf within 24 hours if I am subsequently investigated by any agency or organisation in relation to concerns about my behaviour towards children or young people.
I declare that the information provided on this form is correct. I understand that the declaration of a criminal record will not necessarily prevent me from being offered this role at [insert name of organisation]
Signature		û
Print name
Role(s) applied for
Today’s date

Appendix 3

Reference form - PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED

Reference form

(Name) _______________________________________

has expressed an interest in becoming a club member of staff, volunteer / coach* (*delete as appropriate) and has given your name as a referee.

As this post involves substantial access to children and as an organisation committed to safeguarding children, it is important that if you have any reason to be concerned about this applicant that you do not complete the following form, but please contact me on:

Telephone:

Name:

Organisation:

Any information disclosed in this reference will be treated in confidence and in accordance with relevant legislation and guidance, and will only be shared with the person conducting the assessment of a candidate’s suitability for a post, if he or she is offered the position in question.

How long have you known the person?

In what capacity?

What attributes does this person have which would make him/her suited to a role working with children?

How would you describe his/her personality?

Signed:

Date:

Appendix 4

PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED

Code of Conduct for staff, coaches & volunteers

Respect the rights, dignity and worth of every person within the context of golf
Treat everyone equally and do not discriminate on the grounds of age, gender, race, religion or belief, sexual orientation or disability
If you see any form of discrimination, do not condone it or allow it to go unchallenged
Place the well-being and safety of the young person above the development of performance
Develop an appropriate working relationship with young people, based on mutual trust and respect
Ensure that physical contact is appropriate and necessary and is carried out within recommended guidelines with the young person’s full consent and approval
Always work in an open environment (e.g. avoid private or unobserved situations and encourage an open environment)
Do not engage in any form of sexually related contact with a young player. This is strictly forbidden as is sexual innuendo, flirting or inappropriate gestures and terms
You should not have regular contact outside your club role with the juniors and should not engage in regular communication through text, email or social network sites
Familiarise yourself with and understand the PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED Safeguarding Policies and Procedures
Respect young people’s opinions when making decisions about their participation in golf
Inform players and parents of the requirements of golf
Be aware of and report any conflict of interest as soon as it becomes apparent
Display high standards of language, manner, punctuality, preparation and presentation
Do not smoke, drink or use recreational drugs while actively working with young people in the club. This reflects a negative image and could compromise the safety of the young people
Do not give young people alcohol when they are under the care of the club
Hold relevant qualifications and insurance cover. All Staff, Volunteers & Coaches who work regularly with children must have current DBS clearance, approved by Wales Golf Governance Department
Ensure the activities are appropriate for the age, maturity, experience and ability of the individual
Promote the positive aspects of golf e.g. fair play
Display high standards of behaviour and appearance
Follow Club Procedures & good practice guidelines
Ensure that you attend appropriate training to keep up-to-date with your role and the welfare of young people
Report any concerns you may have in relation to a child or the behaviour of an adult, following reporting procedures laid down by PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED

Signed:

Date:

PRINT NAME:

Role(s) at Club (paid/volunteer)

Appendix 5

PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED

Code of Conduct for Juniors/Young Golfers

As a young golfer taking part in a PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED activity, you should:

Help create and maintain an environment free of fear, discrimination and harassment
Demonstrate fair play and apply golf’s standards both on and off the course
Understand that you have the right to be treated as an individual
Respect the advice that you receive
Treat others as you would wish to be treated yourself
Respect other people and their differences
Look out for yourself and for the welfare of others
Speak out (to your parents or a club representative) if you consider that you or others have been poorly treated
Be organised and on time
Tell someone in authority if you are leaving the venue
Accept that these guidelines are in place for the well-being of all concerned
Treat organisers and coaches with respect
Observe instructions or restrictions requested by the adults looking after you
Let the Club Welfare Officer know if you need any additional support or protection

You should not take part in any irresponsible, abusive, inappropriate or illegal behaviour which includes:

Smoking
Using foul language

Publicly using critical or disrespectful descriptions of others either in person or through text, email or social network sites
Consuming alcohol, illegal performance-enhancing drugs or stimulants

Child Signature ______________ Print Name ______________

Parent/Carer Signature ______________ Print Name_______________

Appendix 6

PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED

Code of Conduct for Parents/Carers of Young Golfers

As parents you are expected to:

Positively reinforce your child and show an interest in their chosen activity
Do not place your child under pressure or push them in to activities they do not want to do
Be realistic and supportive
Promote your child’s participation in playing sport for fun
Complete and return the Player Profile Form and Consents pertaining to your child’s participation in activities at PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED
Report and update PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED with any changes relevant to your child’s health and wellbeing
Inform the Club Welfare Officer if you have any safeguarding concerns and/or of your child needs any additional support or protection arising from issues inside of or outside of a golfing context
Deliver and collect your child punctually before and after coaching sessions/competitions, ensuring that any alternative arrangements or unforeseen issues are communicated without delay to the Club
Ensure your child has clothing and kit appropriate to the weather conditions
Ensure you child has appropriate equipment, plus adequate food and drink
Ensure that you child understands the rules of Golf
Teach your child that they can only do their best
Ensure that your child understands their Code of Conduct
Behave responsibly at PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED and on the golf course; do not embarrass your child
Show appreciation and support the coaches, volunteers and staff at PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED
Accept the decision and judgement of the officials during events and competition

As a parents/carer you have the right to:

Be assured that your child is safeguarded during their participation in the sport
Be informed of problems or concerns relating to your child
Be informed if your child is injured
Have consent sought for issues such as trips, competitions and photography
Contribute to the decisions of the club
Have any concerns about any aspect of your child’s welfare listened to and responded to

Any breaches of this code of conduct will be dealt with immediately by the Board at PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED. Persistent concerns or breaches may result in you being asked not to attend games if your attendance is considered detrimental to the welfare of young participants.

The ultimate action should a parent/carer continue to breach the code of conduct may be PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED regrettably asking your child to leave the session, event or club.

Signed:

Date:

PRINT NAME:

FULL NAME(S) AND DATES OF BIRTH OF CHILDREN attending the Club:

Appendix 7

PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED

Managing Challenging Behaviour

Staff/volunteers who deliver sports activities to children may, on occasions, be required to deal with a child’s challenging behaviour.

These guidelines aim to promote good practice and are based on the following principles:

The welfare of the child is the paramount consideration.
Children must never be subject to any form of treatment that is harmful, abusive, humiliating or degrading.
The specific needs a child may have (e.g. communication, behaviour management, comprehension and so on) should be discussed with their parent/carer and where appropriate the child, before activities start. Where appropriate it may be helpful to record the details of any agreed plan or approach and provide copies to all parties.
Every child should be supported to participate. Consideration to exclude a child from activities should apply only as a last resort and after all efforts to address any challenge have been exhausted, in exceptional circumstances where the safety of that child or of other children cannot be maintained.

Planning Activities

Planning for activities should include consideration of whether any child involved may need additional support or supervision to participate safely. This should address:

Assessment of additional risk associated with the child’s behaviour
Appropriate supervision ratios and whether numbers of adults should be increased
Information sharing for all/volunteers on managing any challenging behaviour to ensure a consistent approach
Specialist expertise or support that may be needed from carers or outside agencies. This is particularly relevant where it is identified that a child may need a level of physical intervention to participate safely. (see below)

Agreeing Acceptable and Unacceptable Behaviours

Staff, volunteers, children, young people and parents/carers should be involved in developing an agreement about:

what constitutes acceptable and unacceptable behaviour (code of conduct)
the range of sanctions which may be applied in response to unacceptable behaviour.

This can be done at the start of the season, in advance of a trip away from home or as part of a welcome session at a residential camp. It should involve the views of children and young people to encourage better buy in and understanding.

Where challenges are anticipated in light, for example of a child’s impairment or other medical condition, a clear plan/agreement should be established and written down.

Ensure that parents/carers understand the expectations on their children, and ask them to reinforce this ahead of any trip or activity.

Managing Challenging Behaviour

In responding to challenging behaviour the response should always be:

Proportionate to the actions you are managing.
Imposed as soon as is practicable.
Fully explained to the child and their parents/carers.

In dealing with children who display negative or challenging behaviours, staff and volunteers might consider the following options:

Time out - from the activity, group or individual work.
Reparation - the act or process of making amends.
Restitution - the act of giving something back.
Behavioural reinforcement - rewards for good behaviour, consequences for negative behaviour.
De-escalation of the situation - talking with the child and distracting them from challenging behaviour.
Increased supervision by staff/volunteers.
Use of individual ‘contracts’ or agreements for the child’s future or continued

participation.

Sanctions or consequences e.g. missing an outing or match
Seeking additional/specialist support through working in partnership with other agencies.
Temporary or permanent exclusion.

The following should never be permitted as a means of managing a child’s behaviour:

Physical punishment or the threat of such.
Refusal to speak to or interact with the child.
Being deprived of food, water, access to changing facilities or toilets or other
essential facilities.
Verbal intimidation, ridicule or humiliation.

Staff/volunteers should consider the risks associated with employing physical intervention compared with the risks of not employing physical intervention.

The use of physical intervention should always:

Be avoided unless it is absolutely necessary to prevent a child injuring themselves or others, or causing serious damage to property.
Aim to achieve an outcome that is in the best interests of the child whose behaviour is of immediate concern
Form part of a broader approach to the management of challenging behaviour.
Be the result of conscious decision-making and not a reaction to an adult’s frustration.
Employ the minimum force needed to avert injury to a person or serious damage to property - applied for the shortest period of time
Used only after all other strategies have been exhausted
Be recorded as soon as possible using the appropriate organisational reporting form and procedure.

Parents should always be informed following an incident where a coach/volunteer has had to physically intervene with their particular child.

Physical intervention must not:

Involve contact with buttocks, genitals and breasts.
Be used as a form of punishment.
Involve inflicting pain

Views of the child

A timely debrief for staff/volunteers, the child and parents should always take place in a calm environment following an incident where physical intervention has been used. Even children who haven’t directly been involved in the situation may need to talk about what they have witnessed.

There should also be a discussion with the child and parents about the child’s needs and continued safe participation in the group or activity.

Appendix 8

Safeguarding Concern Report Form - PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED

Recorder’s Name:
Address:
Post Code:	Telephone No:

Child’s Name:
Address:
Post Code:	Telephone No:

Complainant’s Name:
Address:
Post Code:		Telephone No:

Details of the concerns/incident/allegations: [include: date; time; location; and nature of the concerns]
Additional information: [include: witnesses; corroborative statements; etc.]
Wales Golf notified (01633 436040) Case Number (if allocated): Name of person spoken to:
Date: Time:
Action taken:
Date: Time:
Signature of Recorder: Signature of Complainant:
Data protection: PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED and Wales Golf Governance Department may use the information in this form (together with other information they obtain as a result of any investigation) to investigate the alleged incident and to take whatever action is deemed appropriate, in accordance with their Children and Young People Safeguarding Policy and Procedures. Strict confidentiality will be maintained and information will only be shared on a “need to know” basis in the interests of safeguarding and in accordance with the company’s data protection policy. This may involve disclosing certain information to a number of organisations and individuals including relevant clubs and County bodies, individuals that are the subject of an investigation and/or Statutory agencies such as the Police and Children’s Social Care.

Appendix 9

Accident Report Form – PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED

Recorder’s Name:
Address:
Post Code:	Telephone No:
Name of Injured Person [s]:
Address:
Post Code:	Telephone No:
Nature of Injury Sustained:
Where did the Accident occur: [include: date; time; location; and nature of the accident.]
How did the Accident occur: [include: names; telephone numbers; etc.]
Were there any witnesses to the Accident: [include: names; statements, etc.]
What action was taken: [include: treatment administered, by whom, etc.]
Were any other Agencies involved: [e.g. Ambulance service?]
Have the Parents / Carers been contacted? YES NO [Please circle.]
Does the accident need to be referred to Wales Golf Governance Dept? YES NO
Date: Time:
Signature of Recorder:
Data protection: PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED and Wales Golf Governance Department may use the information in this form (together with other information they obtain as a result of any investigation) to investigate the alleged incident and to take whatever action is deemed appropriate, in accordance with their Children and Young People Safeguarding Policy and Procedures. Strict confidentiality will be maintained and information will only be shared on a “need to know” basis in the interests of safeguarding and in accordance with the company’s data protection policy. This may involve disclosing certain information to a number of organisations and individuals including relevant clubs and County bodies, individuals that are the subject of an investigation and/or Statutory agencies such as the Police and Children’s Social Care.

Appendix 10

Junior Profile and Parental Consent Forms - PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED

Player profiles forms enable those responsible for children to have the information they

need to deal effectively with any emergency situation that arises.

Although information obtained on these forms must be treated as confidential (and only

given to those who need it to fulfil a duty of care for the child), it is also critically important

this information is readily to hand at sessions and matches.

Clubs should devise their own workable system that achieves both objectives. A player

profile form template is attached below for clubs to use should they wish:

Player Profile Form Template PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED

(For Players Under the age of 18)

The safety and welfare of juniors in our care is paramount, and it is therefore important that we are aware of any illness, medical condition and other relevant health details so that their best interests are addressed.

In compliance with the Data Protection Act 1998, all efforts will be made to ensure that information is accurate, kept up to date and secure and that it is used only in connection with the purpose and activities of the organisation. Information will not be kept once a person is no longer a member of the organisation. The information will be disclosed only to those members of the organisation for whom it is appropriate and relevant officers of Wales Golf where necessary.

It is the responsibility of the junior and their parent to notify the Club Welfare Officer (CWO) or Secretary if any of the details change at any time.

Junior Name
Date of Birth
Address
Telephone Number
Parents’ Names
Address			(If different)
Home Telephone No
Mobile Telephone No
Work Telephone No
Email Address
Emergency Contacts
Contact 1 Name
Relationship to child
Home Telephone Number
Mobile Telephone Number
Work Telephone Number
Contact 2 Name
Relationship to child
Home Telephone Number
Mobile Telephone Number
Work Telephone Number

Please confirm details of all those with Parental Responsibility for the Child.

Medical Information

Child’s Doctor’s name
Doctor’s Surgery Address
Telephone Number

Does your child experience any conditions requiring medical treatment and/or medication? YES □ NO □

*If yes please give details, including medication, dose and frequency.

Does your child have any allergies? YES □ NO □

*If yes please give details.

Does your child have any specific dietary requirements? YES □ NO □

*If yes please give details.

What additional needs, if any, does your child have e.g. needs help to administer planned medication, assistance with lifting or access, regular snacks?

Disability

The Equality Act 2010 defines a disabled person as ‘anyone with a physical or mental impairment, which has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on his or her ability to carry out normal day to day activities’.

Do you consider your child to have a disability? YES □ NO □

*If yes what is the nature of the disability?

Does your child have any communication needs e.g. non-English speaker/ hearing impairment/ sign language user/ dyslexia/neurodiversity? If yes, please tell us what we need to do to enable them to feel comfortable, supported and able to communicate effectively.

Consent from Parent/Legal Carer:

I confirm to the best of my knowledge that my child does not suffer

from any medical condition other than those detailed above.

I agree to notify the Club of any changes to this information.

I give my consent that in an emergency situation, the club may act in my place (loco parentis), if the need arises for the administration of emergency first aid and/or other medical treatment which, in the opinion of a qualified medical practitioner, may be necessary. I also understand that in such an occurrence all reasonable steps will be taken to contact me or the alternative adult named in this form.

The attached signature will denote that my child has my permission to be on the golf club’s premises.

I acknowledge that the club is not responsible for providing adult supervision for my child, except for formal junior golfing coaching, matches or competition.

I agree to my child being transported by club representatives to and from venues when he/she is representing the club.

(Please tick the boxes if agreed)

By signing this document I confirm that I have legal responsibility for ……………………………………………………… ; I am entitled to give this consent and I am aware of how the information I have provided may be used.
Signed – Parent/Carer
Print name
Date

Appendix 11

Photography Consent

This form is to be signed by the legal carer of a child under the age of 18, together with the child. Please note that if you have more than one child registered you will need to complete separate forms for each. If there are reasons that the Club should be aware of (in confidence) that would potentially increase safeguarding risks or breach Court Orders should your child be filmed/photographed, please ensure that our Club Welfare Officer is informed. Your child’s safety and welfare is our priority.

PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED recognises the need to ensure the welfare and safety of all children in golf. As part of our commitment to ensure their safety we will not permit photographs, video images or other images of your child to be taken (except where some incidental inclusion may not be possible to avoid) or used without your consent.

PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED will ensure that any image of a child where consent has not been obtained will not be published.

PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED will follow the guidance for the use of images of children as detailed within the Club’s Safeguarding Children and Young Peoples Policy.

PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED will take steps to ensure these images are used solely for the purposes for which they are intended i.e. the promotion and celebration of the activities of the club.

If you become aware that these images are being used inappropriately you should inform the Club Welfare Officer immediately.

The photographs may be available on the website for the golf season . If at any time either the parent/ carer or the child wishes the data to be removed from the website, 7 days’ notice must be given to the Club Welfare Officer after which the data will be removed.

To be completed by parent/carer

I ______________________ (Parent full name) consent to _________________ (name of organisation) photographing or videoing __________________ (name of child) under the stated rules and conditions, and I confirm I have legal parental responsibility for this child and am entitled to give this consent.

Signature ________________________ Date ____________________

To be completed by child/young person

I ______________________ (Child full name) consent to _________________ (name of organisation) photographing or videoing child under the stated rules and conditions.

Signature ________________________ Date ____________________

Appendix 12

Guidance for parents

PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED is delighted to welcome you and your child to what we hope is the first of many activities and events that you will be taking part in.

The positive effect of your support, as a parent, can’t be overstated. Your behaviour has a real influence on the way your child experiences golf.

First things first – why is your child showing an interest in the sport? Is it to learn a new game? To hang out with their friends? Because they did it in school and liked it? Or because you play?

Make sure they’re playing for their own reasons, not yours.

To enable us to provide the best possible experience for you and your child, we kindly request that you read through the following guidance and complete the attached forms.

Take an interest in your child’s activity and progress and be supportive.

Familiarise yourself with the PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED Safeguarding Policy (attached).

Familiarise yourself with

Codes of Conduct for parents, coaches, children and young people.
Transport Policy.
Changing Room Policy.
Photography, Videoing and the use of Social Media Policies.

Complete the attached Parental Consent Form which will enable event organisers to cater for any particular needs that your child may have (e.g. medical conditions and medications, allergies, learning difficulties etc.), as well as contact you in the unlikely event of an emergency.

Go through the attached Code of Conduct with your child and return a signed copy to the club/event organiser.

Be punctual when dropping off and picking up your child from coaching/ events. It is important to communicate with the club if collecting your child after an event/coaching session may cause a problem.

Introduce yourself to the adults involved in the supervision and support of your child.

When leaving your child, make sure they have the necessary provisions for the day, including the ability to meet the requirements of changing weather conditions. Please ensure that your mobile is switched on when you are away from the club, so that you can be contacted in an emergency.

Encourage your child to take part and support club activities such as coaching & competitions.

Help your child to arrange golf with other juniors away from club organised activities so they have someone to play golf with.

As a parent/carer you are encouraged to:

Discuss any concerns regarding the organisation of activities or the behaviour of adults or other juniors towards your child with the Club Welfare Officer, who will treat any concerns you or your child may have in the strictest confidence

Wales Golf Lead Safeguarding Officer is also available for advice: 01633 436040

Club Welfare Officer

Leon Warne

Tel: 01495 763655

[email protected]

Appendix 13

Managing Young People on Away Trips – PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED

The following provides good practice guidance for taking teams on an away fixture for

a day (not overnight)

appoint a team manager with clear roles and responsibilities
appoint a designated safeguarding lead contact (not the team manager) who is appropriately trained and competent for the role and responsibilities
establish well in advance where the fixture is
ensure you have sufficient staff to manage and look after the Young People
obtain written permission from the parents/carers or carers for participation, transporting and supervising. An up to date photograph of each child must be attached to the child’s consent form (for use in the event of any child going missing)
ensure that a welfare plan has been written and communicated to staff, participants and carers
ensure all staff responsible for the young people have been DBS checked to the appropriate level and staff have had appropriate safeguarding training
ensure that a risk assessment has been conducted
ensure that there is a contact available e.g a staff member who is not travelling away, who will act as the key contact point if required.

Accommodation

Whatever the accommodation, the team manager should ensure that the children are safe. Discuss your code of conduct and discipline policy with the staff at the accommodation. All children must know which rooms staff are in and how to contact them if required.

If rooms are equipped with satellite TV, inappropriate programmes may be available. It may be possible to have these programmes disconnected.

If rooms have fridges, all alcohol must be removed.

Check the accommodation policy for extras on bills, breakages and lost keys. All accommodation must be clean and with access to sufficient toilet and bathing facilities.

It is not acceptable:

• For children to share a bed

• For male and female children to share a room

• For staff to share a room with children

Checks must be made to ensure that the needs of children with disabilities are met. For wheelchair users, it is important to check access to the building, room and bathroom facilities

Overnight Stays

Those responsible for organising overnight stays should establish the purpose of the trip, confirm the dates, location, and duration. You should also conduct a risk assessment, identify suitable venues and facilities for both fixtures and accommodation and consider the following:

Purpose of the trip.
Who will be going, children? Staff?
How much will it cost? How much spending money is required?
What insurance cover is required?
Supervision of children, both playing and non-playing time.
Catering for all food requirements.
Communication with parents (see above)
Ensure a list of the team and staff is left, with contact number and address of the accommodation
Ensure that there are emergency contact numbers for all the team and staff.
An itinerary giving as much detail as possible.
Emergency procedures and telephone contacts.
Codes of contact for both staff and children.
Welfare and child protection procedures.

Appendix 14

Social Media Guidance - PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED

This guidance gives procedures that will support and underpin the use of social networking and other online services within PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED. It is important that all members, staff, volunteers, coaches, officials/referees, board members, or anyone working on behalf of PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED are aware of this policy and agree to the following terms.

Advice for Individual

Do not accept children as contacts on social networking sites if you hold a position of trust with children/young people.
Where contact through social networking sites is used for professional reasons, restrict the communication to professional content and obtain written consent from parents prior to establishing contact.
Include a third party in any communications to children, e.g. copy parents into communications.
Use the privacy settings on the various sites to ensure that your content will only be viewed by appropriate people.
Ensure that any content you place on a social networking site is age-appropriate. Do not use the site to criticise or abuse others.
Know where to direct junior members and their parents for information.
Know how to report concerns.
Know how to keep data safe and secure. This should include the personal contact data of individuals, such as mobile numbers, email addresses and social networking profiles.

Advice for Children

Consider carefully who you invite to be your friend online and make sure they are who you actually think they are.
There are websites that offer advice about protecting yourself online, such as www.ceop.gov.uk and www.childnet.com
Make sure you use privacy settings so that only friends can view your profile.
Remember that anything you post on websites may be shared with people you don’t know.
Never post comments, photos, videos, etc., that may upset someone, that are untrue or that are hurtful. Think about whether you may regret posting the content at a later date.

If you are worried or upset about something that’s been posted about you, or by texts you receive from other juniors or adults involved with the club, raise this with your Club Welfare Officer. Alternatively contact your National Governing Body Lead Safeguarding Officer (Siân Simmons at Wales Golf Tel: 01633 436040). Do not suffer alone. You will be listened to and your concerns will be taken seriously.

If you want to talk to someone anonymously, call Childline on 0800 1111, or contact them on the web at www.childline.org.uk . You can also call the NSPCC on 0808 800 5000.

Advice for Parents

Make yourself knowledgeable about social networking platforms and how they work.
Go on the internet with your child and agree what sites are acceptable to visit. Regularly check that they are staying within the agreed limits.
Encourage your child to talk to you about what they have been doing on the internet.
Make sure they feel able to speak to you if they ever feel uncomfortable, upset or threatened by anything they see online.
Encourage children to look out for each other when they're online. Explain that it's all part of staying safe and having fun together.
Explain to children that it's not safe to reveal personal information, such as their name, address or phone number on the internet. Encourage them to use a cool nickname rather than their own name.
Attachments and links in emails can contain viruses and may expose children and young people to inappropriate material. Teach children to only open attachments or click on links from people they know.

Further Advice for Parents of Young Golfers

If you are concerned about any texts, social networking posts or any other use of communication technology by members of the golf club, volunteers or members of staff, raise this with the Club Welfare Officer. They will look into the matter and take appropriate action. Alternatively contact Wales Golf Lead Safeguarding Officer Tel 01633 436040.
In addition to reporting concerns to Wales Golf (National Governing Body), you should immediately report possible online abuse to the Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre (CEOP) or the police. Law enforcement agencies and the internet service provider may need to take urgent steps to locate a child and/or remove the content from the internet. Where a young person may be in immediate danger, dial 999.
Do not post/send negative or critical comments or messages about other children in the club, staff or volunteers. If you have concerns about a person, these should be raised using appropriate channels within the club and not using social media.
If you wish to speak to an external organisation for advice, you can contact the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000.

Appendix 15

Whistleblowing Policy - PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED

Safeguarding children, young people and adults at risk requires everyone to be committed to the highest possible standards of openness, integrity and accountability.

As a club, we are committed to encouraging and maintaining a culture where people feel able to raise a genuine safeguarding concern and are confident that it will be taken seriously.

You may be the first to recognise that something is wrong but feel that you cannot express your concerns as this may be disloyal to your colleagues or you may that you will be the victim of harassment or victimisation as a result.

Children, Young People and Adults at risk need someone like you to safeguard their welfare.

What is whistle blowing?

In the context of safeguarding, “whistle blowing” is when someone raises a concern about the well-being of a child or an adult at risk.

A whistle blower may be:

a player;
a volunteer;
a coach;
other member of staff;
an official;
a parent;
a member of the public.

Reasons for whistle blowing:

Those involved in sport must acknowledge their individual responsibilities and bring matters of concern to the attention of the relevant people and/or agencies. Although this can be difficult it is particularly important where the welfare of children may be at risk.

Each individual has a responsibility for raising concerns about unacceptable practice or behaviour:

To protect or reduce risk to others
To prevent a problem from becoming worse or more widespread
To prevent becoming implicated yourself

What prevents those individuals from whistle blowing:

Starting a chain of events that they have no control of
Disrupting work or training
Fear of getting it wrong or making a mistake
Fear of repercussions
Fear of damaging careers
Fear of not being believed.

If a child or an adult at risk is in immediate danger or risk of harm, the police should be contacted by calling 999.

Where a child or an adult at risk is not in immediate danger the first person you should report your suspicion or allegation to is your Club Welfare Officer. If for any reason you cannot, or do not wish to report the matter to your Club Welfare Officer please contact the Wales Golf Lead Safeguarding Officer on 01633 436040 or email [email protected]

Alternatively you can contact the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) or the NSPCC on 0808 800 5000.

Information to include when raising a concern

The whistle blower should provide as much information as possible regarding the incident or circumstance which has given rise to the concern, including:

their name and contact details (unless they wish to remain anonymous);
names of individuals involved;
date, time and location of incident/circumstance; and
whether any witnesses were present.

PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED assures that all involved will be treated fairly and that all concerns will be properly considered. In cases where suspicions prove to be unfounded, no action will be taken against those who report their concerns, provided they acted in good faith and without malicious intent.

What happens next?

• You should be given information on the nature and progress of any enquiries – this may vary depending on the nature and result of the investigations.

• All concerns will be treated in confidence. During the process of investigating the

matter, every effort will be made to keep the identity of those raising the concern

to the minimum number of individuals practicable.

• Your Club has a responsibility to protect you from harassment or victimisation

• No action will be taken against you if the concern proves to be unfounded and was

raised in good faith

• Malicious allegations may be considered a disciplinary offence

The Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998 protects whistle blowers from victimisation, discipline or dismissal where they raise genuine concerns of misconduct or malpractice.

If the whistle blower does not believe that the concern has been dealt with appropriately and wishes to speak to someone outside the club or the Wales Golf Governance Department the NSPCC Whistleblowing advice line should be contacted on 0800 028 0285 or by emailing [email protected].

Appendix 16

Wales Golf DBS Flowchart

Does

this activity happen as often as

any of the following?

. Once a week or more often

. 4 or more days in a 30 day period

. ANY overnight between 2am and

6am

Is the individual carrying out any of the

following activities?

. Teaching, training, instructing, caring for or

supervising children

. Providing guidance and advice on well

being

for children

. Driving a vehicle to solely transport children

Will

the activity

happen on a regular*

basis?

YES

Will the individual be

sufficiently supervised ** by

someone in Regulated

Activity?

This is REGULATED ACTIVITY.

The individual is required to

have an Enhanced DBS with

the Barred List check.

YES

The individual is eligible

for an Enhanced DBS

without Barred List

check. Wales Golf

advise that this check is

carried out.

* Regular is open to definition

it is suggested that annually would be insufficient but an argument for

eligibility could be made if the individual does an activity once a month or a number of times over the

summer period, for example.

**Supervision must be ‘reasonable in all the circumstances to ensure the protection of children’. It

must be ‘regular and day to day’ (supervision must not be concentrated in first few weeks and then tail

off). Supervision must be undertaken by someone who is in Regulated Activity themselves.

YES

There

is NO

requirement for a

DBS check in these

circumstances

MAY 18

Appendix 17

CATEGORIES OF CHILD ABUSE

Abuse can happen on any occasion or in any place where children and young people are present.

Child abuse is any form of physical, emotional or sexual mistreatment or lack of care that leads to injury or harm. Children may be abused in a family or in an institutional or community setting by those known to them or, more rarely, by a stranger. Children can be abused by adults, either male or female, or by other children.

Safeguarding is defined as:

Protecting children from maltreatment;
Preventing impairment of children’s health or development;
Ensuring that children are growing up in circumstances consistent with the provision of safe and effective care; and
Taking action to enable all children to have the best life chances.

Child Protection is the activity that is undertaken to protect specific children who are suffering, or are likely to suffer significant harm.

There are 4 main types of abuse: neglect, physical abuse, sexual abuse and emotional abuse. Children and young people can also be harmed through poor practice and bullying within a sport setting.

Neglect is when adults consistently or repeatedly fail to meet a child’s basic physical and/or psychological needs which could result in the serious impairment of the child’s health or development e.g. failure to provide adequate food, shelter and clothing; failing to protect a child from physical harm or danger; or the failure to ensure access to appropriate medical care or treatment. It may also include refusal to give love, affection and attention.

Examples in sportcould include a coach or supervisor repeatedly failing to ensure children are safe, exposing them to undue cold, heat or extreme weather conditions without ensuring adequate clothing or hydration; exposing them to unnecessary risk of injury e.g. by ignoring safe practice guidelines, failing to ensure the use of safety equipment, or by requiring young people to participate when injured or unwell.

Physical abuse is when someone physically hurts or injures children by hitting, shaking, throwing, poisoning, burning, biting, scalding, suffocating, drowning or otherwise causing harm. Physical harm may also be caused when a parent or carer feigns the symptoms of, or deliberately causes, ill health to a child whom they are looking after.

Examples in sportmay be when the nature and intensity of training or competition exceeds the capacity of the child’s immature and growing body; where coaches encourage the use of drugs or harmful substances to enhance performance or delay puberty; if athletes are required to participate when injured; or when sanctions used by coaches imposed involve inflicting pain.

Sexual abuse is where children and young people are abused by adults (both male and female) or other children who use them to meet their own sexual needs. This could include full sexual intercourse, masturbation, oral sex, anal intercourse, kissing and sexual fondling. Showing children pornographic material (books, videos, pictures) or taking pornographic images of them are also forms of sexual abuse.

Sexual abusers groom children, protective adults and clubs/organisations in order to create opportunities to abuse and reduce the likelihood of being reported.

Examples in sport may includecoaching techniques involving physical contact with children creating situations where sexual abuse can be disguised and may therefore go unnoticed. The power and authority of, or dependence on, the coach if misused, may also lead to abusive situations developing. Contacts made within sport and pursued e.g. through texts, Facebook or Twitter have been used to groom children for abuse.

Child Sexual Exploitation is a form of child sexual abuse. It occurs where an individual or group takes advantage of an imbalance of power to coerce, manipulate or deceive a child or young person under the age of 18 into sexual activity

(a) in exchange for something the victim needs or wants, and/or

(b) for the financial advantage or increased status of the perpetrator or facilitator.

The victim may have been sexually exploited even if the sexual activity appears consensual. Child sexual exploitation does not always involve physical contact; it can also occur through the use of technology.

Emotional abuse is the persistent emotional ill-treatment of a child so as to cause severe and persistent adverse effects on the child’s emotional development. It may involve conveying to children that they are worthless or unloved, inadequate, or valued only insofar as they meet the needs of another person.

It may feature age or developmentally inappropriate expectations being imposed on children or even the over protection of a child. It may involve causing children to feel frightened or in danger by being constantly shouted at, threatened or taunted which may make the child very nervous and withdrawn. Some level of emotional abuse is involved in all types of ill-treatment of a child.

Examples in sportmay include children who are subjected to constant criticism, name-calling, sarcasm, bullying, racism or pressure to perform to unrealistically high expectations; or when their value or worth is dependent on sporting success or achievement.

Appendix 18

PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED

Appendix 19

PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED

The purpose of this document is to make all Club members aware of their safeguarding responsibility, identify particular areas of the Safeguarding Policy that they should be aware of and give some guidance on reporting procedures if a concern is identified. A club may choose to display this on a notice board or give a copy to all new/existing members.

Safeguarding Children and Young People – A Short Guide for Club Members

PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED is committed to ensure that the sport of golf is one within which children and young people involved can thrive and flourish in a safe environment and that all children, young people and adults at risk have a fun, safe and positive experience when playing golf.

PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITEDis an affiliated member of Wales Golf and follows the Wales Golf Safeguarding Children and Young People Policy and procedures.

You might be thinking “What has safeguarding got to do with me?”

Government guidance makes it clear that ‘Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility’.

Anyone who has a negative experience of sport at a young age is less likely to become a regular long-term participant. It’s important for the future of your club and the sport as a whole that children and young people have an enjoyable experience.

All club members have a part to play in making that happen.

All adults should contribute to the club meeting its overall duty of care, be aware of our club’s safeguarding policy, and know what to do if they are concerned about a young person.

PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED asks our members to

Familiarise yourself with the PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED Safeguarding Policy.

The full copy of the PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED Safeguarding Children and Young People Policy is available on our website www.PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED.com

In particular familiarise yourself with: (Golf Clubs can add relevant information from their Safeguarding Policy in each section)

PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED Codes of Conduct

For example - Adults should always be aware that age related differences exist and conduct themselves in a manner that both recognises this and prioritises the welfare of children and young people.

Anti-Bullying Policy

For example - PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED believe that every effort must be made to eradicate bullying in all its forms. The Club will not tolerate bullying in any of its forms during club matches, competitions, coaching or at any other time while at the club.

Transport Policy

For example - The club believes it is primarily the responsibility of parents/carers to transport their child/children to and from events.

Changing Room Policy

For example - The changing rooms are used by all members & visitors. Wherever possible adults will avoid changing or showering at the same time as children but parents will be made aware that with limited changing room space there will be occasions when adults and children may need to share the facilities. Where a parent/carer does not consent to their child accessing the changing rooms, it is their responsibility to either supervise the child while in the changing rooms or ensure that they do not use them.

Photography, Videoing and the use of Social Media Policies

Think very carefully before contacting a young person via mobile phone, e-mail or social media.

Do not accept children as contacts on social networking sites if you hold a position of trust with children/young people.

In general stick to group communications, copy the communication to a parent and only communicate about organisational matters.

What should I do if I’m concerned about a child or young person?

A concern may involve the behaviour of an adult towards a child at the club, or something that has happened to the child outside the club.

Children and young people may confide in adults they trust, in a place where they feel comfortable.

An allegation may range from verbal bullying, to inappropriate contact online, to neglect or emotional abuse, to physical or sexual abuse.

If you are concerned about a child, it is not your responsibility to investigate further, but it is your responsibility to act on your concerns and share them.

Pass the information to Welfare Officer who will follow the club’s Safeguarding procedures.

Name: Leon Warne

Email Address: [email protected]

Telephone Number: 01495 763655 Ext 2

If you believe the child is at immediate risk of harm, call the Police.

Other useful contacts:

NSPCC Tel: 0808 800 5000 | Wales Golf Lead Safeguarding Officer 01633 436040

Appendix 20

PHOTOGRAPHY POLICY - PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED

Whilst the PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED does not seek to prohibit those with a legitimate interest in filming or photographing children participating in sporting activities it recognises that such activity should take place within an appropriate policy framework.

This policy applies at any PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED event at which children under the age of 18 are participating.

POLICY

The PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED policy is as follows;

The welfare of children taking part in golf is paramount.

Children and their parents/guardians and or the PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED should have control over the images taken of children at PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED events. . If there are reasons that the Club should be aware of (in confidence) that would potentially increase safeguarding risks or breach Court Orders should your child be filmed/photographed, please ensure that our Club Welfare Officer is informed. Your child’s safety and welfare is our priority.

The golfing activity should not be misused purely for the purpose of obtaining images of children.

Images should not be sexual or exploitative in nature or open to misinterpretation and misuse.

The identity of children in a published image should be protected so as not to make the children vulnerable. (If the name of an individual golfer is published with their photograph to celebrate an achievement other personal contact details should never accompany the picture).

PROCEDURE

Official/professional photographers and those using ‘professional’ equipment

PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED requires that anyone wishing to take photographic or video images, at any PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED event at which children under the age of 18 are participating, in an official or professional capacity or using ‘professional’ camera or video equipment registers their details with the PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED Office. This must be done before carrying out any such activity on the golf course (including the practice ground) or surrounding area or in the clubhouse.

Once registered an identification label will be issued as confirmation of registration. Anyone found using photographic or video equipment without an appropriate identification label will be questioned.

The PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED reserves the right to refuse to grant permission to take photographic or video images if it sees fit.

Photographers must obtain consent from parents to take and use their child’s image.

Parents/carers/family members of competitors

Parents, carers and family members taking occasional informal photographs with mobile devices of their own child, ward or family member at a PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED event do not need to register their details with the PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED.

If such photographs include other children (eg at a prize presentation) they should not be publically displayed or published on social media unless the prior permission of the parents/guardians of all the children in the photographs has been obtained.

CONCERNS

If competitors or parents have any concerns they should raise them by contacting the PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED Secretaries Office immediately.

PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED will notify the relevant authorities should it have any doubts as to the authenticity of any individual taking photographs.

Appendix 21

ANTI-BULLYING POLICY - PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED

PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED will:

· recognise its duty of care and responsibility to safeguard all participants from harm

· promote and implement this anti-bullying policy in addition to our safeguarding policy and procedures

· seek to ensure that bullying behaviour is not accepted or condoned

· require all members of PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED to be given information about, and sign up to, this policy

· take action to investigate and respond to any alleged incidents of bullying

· encourage and facilitate children and young people to play an active part in developing and adopting a code of conduct to address bullying

· ensure that staff, volunteers and coaches are given access to information, guidance and/or training on bullying.

Each participant, coach, volunteer or official will:

· respect every child’s need for, and rights to, a play environment where safety, security, praise, recognition and opportunity for taking responsibility are available

· respect the feelings and views of others

· recognise that everyone is important and that our differences make each of us special and should be valued

· show appreciation of others by acknowledging individual qualities, contributions and progress

be committed to the early identification of bullying, and prompt and collective action to deal with it

· ensure safety by having rules and practices carefully explained and displayed for all to see

· report incidents of bullying they see – by doing nothing you are condoning bullying.

Bullying

all forms of bullying will be addressed
everybody in PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED has a responsibility to work together to stop bullying
bullying can include online as well as offline behaviour
bullying can include:

- physical pushing, kicking, hitting, pinching etc.

- name calling, sarcasm, spreading rumours, persistent teasing and emotional torment through ridicule, humiliation or the continual ignoring of individuals

- posting of derogatory or abusive comments, videos or images on social network sites

- racial taunts, graffiti, gestures, sectarianism - sexual comments, suggestions or behaviour

- unwanted physical contact

· children with a disability, from ethnic minorities, young people who are gay or lesbian, or those with learning difficulties are more vulnerable to this form of abuse and are more likely to be targeted.

Support to the child

· children should know who will listen to and support them

· systems should be established to open the door to children wishing to talk about bullying or any other issue that affects them

· potential barriers to talking (including those associated with a child’s disability or impairment) need to be identified and addressed at the outset to enable children to approach adults for help

· children should have access to helpline numbers

· anyone who reports an incident of bullying will be listened to carefully and be supported

· any reported incident of bullying will be investigated objectively and will involve listening carefully to all those involved

· children being bullied will be supported and assistance given to uphold their right to play and live in a safe environment which allows their healthy development

· those who bully will be supported and encouraged to stop bullying

· sanctions for those bullying others that involve long periods of isolation, or which diminish and make individuals look or feel foolish in front of others, will be avoided.

Support to the parents/carers

parents/carers to be advised on PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED bullying policy and practice

any incident of bullying will be discussed with the child’s parents/carers

parents/carers will be consulted on action to be taken (for both victim and bully) and agreements made as to what action should be taken
information and advice on coping with bullying will be made available
support should be offered to the parents/carers including information on other agencies or support lines.

Useful contacts

PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED Welfare Officer, Leon Warne, Tel: 01495 763655

NSPCC Helpline 0808 800 5000

ChildLine 0800 1111 / www.childline.org.uk

Kidscape www.kidscape.org.uk

Anti-Bullying Alliance www.antibullyingalliance.org.uk

Wales Golf Lead Safeguarding Officer 01633 436040

Title	Club Template Safeguarding Adults Policy
Author(s)	Sian Simmons/Gillian Camina
Document Date	February 2023
Version	6.0
Status	Live
Next review date	February 25

Revision History

Version	Date	Amended by	Summary of Changes
5.0	September 2020	Gillian Camina	Review
6.0	February 23	Gillian Camina	Legislation changes and review

****************************************************************************************************************

PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED

Safeguarding Adults Policy and Procedures

Contents

	Page
Safeguarding Policy Statement	2
Procedures:
Complaints, concerns and allegations	6
Responding to a Disclosure of Abuse	6 & 7
Signs and Indicators of Abuse and Neglect	7
Consent	8 & 9
Useful Contacts	10

Supporting Documents
Safeguarding Adults Flowchart	11
Capacity – Guidance on Making Decisions	12 & 13
Safeguarding Concern Report Form	14 & 15
Guidance on Types of Harm	17 - 19
Guidance on Consent and Information Sharing	20 & 21
Legislation & Government Initiatives	22 - 24

Safeguarding Adults Policy

INTRODUCTION

PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED is committed to creating and maintaining a safe and positive environment for all individuals involved in golf. Over the past decade there has been an increasing recognition of the need to widen safeguarding focus and practice to ensure that appropriate support and protection is afforded to those transitioning into adulthood, adults who may be additionally vulnerable and at risk of abuse and those involved in talent pathways and elite sport. It is important to recognise that individuals of any age can be or become vulnerable as a result of a range of intersectional factors (including isolation, illness, disability, dependency, discrimination, oppression, isolation, bereavement and relationship breakdown).

An "adult at risk"* is an individual aged 18 years and over who:

is experiencing or is at risk of abuse or neglect,
has needs for care and support (whether or not the authority is meeting any of those needs) and
as a result of those needs is unable to protect himself or herself against the abuse or neglect or the risk of it.

(*Section 126 of the Social Services and Well-Being Act 2014)

The use of the term ‘at risk’ means that actual abuse or neglect does not need to have occurred, and emphasises the importance of early interventions to support and protect an adult at risk of abuse to prevent abuse and neglect occurring.

PRINCIPLES IN RELATION TO ADULTS AT RISK

The Social Services and Well-Being (Wales) Act 2014 (SS&WB) principles are:

Pay attention to what people want.
Remember people’s dignity.
Think about each person. Think about their culture, beliefs and language.
Support people to be part of decisions about their life.
Expect adults to know what is best for themselves.
Support adults to be as independent as possible.

The concept of well-being is a constant thread in both English and Welsh legislation and is a key principle in safeguarding. It is related to maintaining the personal dignity, support and inclusion of all.

Whilst the Care Act 2014 is the primary legislation for the protection of adults in England and has many similarities with the SS&WB Act, it is important to note that the Wales Safeguarding Procedures (2019) provide guidance for all Welsh organisations to ensure that they meet the requirements of the SS&WB Act which cover both adult and child protection responsibilities. The Procedures make it clear that there is an expectation that everyone will act to protects Adults at Risk by reporting all safeguarding concerns regardless of the views of the individual at risk (this is set out as an ethical obligation which ensures that no adult experiences significant harm as a result of failures to seek the support and assessment of the local social services or the police). For any club, organisation or activity in receipt of Welsh Government funding, this is a legal responsibility.

Whilst this legal obligation does not extend to privately owned clubs and facilities, any failure to report or decision to not share concerns which result in significant harm would need to be defensible. Wales Golf advises that advice be sought at the earliest opportunity should concerns arise.

In addition, in January 2022 the Welsh Government issued ‘Working Together to Safeguard People: Code of Safeguarding Practice’ for all individuals, groups and organisations offering activities or services to children and adults in Wales. The code makes it clear that individuals (paid and voluntary) and organisations have a duty of care to ensure that children and adults are protected from harm and that the right action is taken if a person is potentially at risk of harm. This includes taking action where you have information or concerns that a child or adult who is attending an activity or service you provide is vulnerable, in need of additional protection/support or being harmed at home or in the community. Compliance with this policy will ensure that XPONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED fulfils that duty.

Making safeguarding personal is the concept that adult safeguarding should be person led and outcome focused. It engages the person in a conversation about how best to respond to their safeguarding situation in a way that enhances involvement, choice and control. As well as improving quality of life, well-being, and safety.

Wherever possible discuss safeguarding concerns with the adult to get their view of what they would like to happen and keep them involved in the safeguarding process, seeking their consent to share information outside of the organisation where necessary.

Capacity refers to the ability to make a decision at a particular time, for example when under considerable stress. It should always be assumed that a person has capacity to make a decision unless it can be established that they lack capacity. It is critically important that people are provided with information in a way or format that they understand in order to ensure informed decision making.

The principles of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 (MCA) state that every individual has the right to make their own decisions and provides the framework for this to happen. The Wales Safeguarding Procedures, like the Care and Support Guidance, make it clear that the voice and views of the adult who is perceived to be at risk must remain central to and involved in any decisions about how they are supported to address any safeguarding concerns, to the extent that they are able (capacity and consent considerations).

Where concerns arise that capacity and consent are compromised however (due to illness, disability, coercion and control for example), the Mental Capacity Act also provides a framework for situations where there is a risk of immediate or significant harm which supports intervention and advocacy in order to safeguard and protect the most vulnerable.

In addition PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED recognises the following principles which underpin our work with all groups and individuals who may have additional needs for support and protection:

• It is every adult’s right to be protected from abuse irrespective of their age, gender identity, faith or religion, culture, ethnicity, sexual orientation, background, economic position, marital status, disability or level of ability.

• All staff, volunteers and members share the responsibility for the protection of adults at risk and will show respect and understanding for their rights, safety and welfare.

• The additional vulnerability of disabled adults (including those with invisible disabilities, learning and communication differences) is recognised.

• Allegations of abuse or concerns about the welfare of any adult will be treated seriously and will be responded to swiftly and appropriately.

• PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED recognises the role and responsibilities of the statutory agencies in safeguarding adults and is committed to complying with the Welsh Safeguarding Procedures and the procedures of the relevant Safeguarding Adults Board.

• Confidentiality will be maintained appropriately at all times. Sensitive and confidential information will only be shared on a ‘need to know’ basis in line with GDPR and current data protection legislation. The adult’s safety and welfare must be the overriding consideration when making decisions on whether or not to share information about them.

PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED recognises that legislation across the UK strongly supports information sharing in the interests of safeguarding as failures to share information and to work in partnership with the statutory agencies have consistently been shown to result in poor outcomes for the most vulnerable. We are committed to sharing information without delay when concerns arise in relation to the safety and well-being of an adult at risk.

• PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED will support all staff, volunteers, and adult members of our club to understand their roles and responsibilities in relation to safeguarding and protecting adults at risk, including the responsibility to report all concerns in line with PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED’s safeguarding adults’ policy and procedures.

• All participants involved in golfing activities have the right to be listened to with respect and to be heard.

LEGISLATION AND GUIDANCE

The practices and procedures within this policy are based on the principles contained within the UK and Welsh legislation and Government Guidance. We recognise the authority of the statutory agencies and are committed to complying with all UK legislation and statutory guidance in relation to child protection, safeguarding, information-sharing, data protection and safe recruitment and deployment, including:

Legislation

Social Services and Well-Being (Wales) Act 2014
England - Care Act 2014
England and Wales - Mental Capacity Act 2005
Mental Capacity (Amendment) Act 2019 and the Liberty Protection Standards (LPS)
Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims (Amendment) Act 2012
Serious Crime Act 2015 (Section 76 – Controlling and coercive behaviour)
Equality Act 2010 (see Wales Golf Template Equality Diversity and Inclusion Policy)
Children and Families Act 2014
Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006
England and Wales - Mental Capacity Act 2005
Sexual Offences Act 1956 & 2003
Human Rights Act 1998
Data Protection Act 1998
General Data Protection Regulations 2016
Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015
Modern Slavery Act 2017

This list is not intended to be exhaustive.

Statutory Guidance

Wales Safeguarding Procedures (2019) https://safeguarding.wales/en/
Working Together to Safeguard People: Code of Safeguarding Practice (Welsh Government, January 2022)
England - Care and Support Statutory Guidance (updated July 2018)

An explanation of legislations can be found on pages 22-24.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND IMPLEMENTATION

PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED will seek to promote the principles of safeguarding by:

Reviewing PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED policy and procedures annually or whenever there is a major change in legislation.
Giving guidance on appropriate recruitment procedures to assess the suitability of volunteers and staff working with vulnerable groups.
Being clear that safeguarding is everybody’s responsibility and that this includes the need for effective information-sharing which is central to good safeguarding practice.
Ensuring that all stakeholders are aware of expectations around behaviour and conduct when working with children and/or vulnerable individuals of any age, including Positions of Trust.

Following procedures to report welfare concerns and allegations about the behaviour of adults and ensure that all staff, volunteers, parents and participants, including children, are aware of these procedures. Directing club staff, volunteers & coaches to appropriate safeguarding training and learning opportunities, where this is appropriate to their role Positions of Trust

It has always been Wales Golf’s policy position (as with almost all sport’s national governing bodies) and in breach of Codes of Conduct for someone in a position of responsibility for young people to have an intimate or sexual relationship with a young person under 18 who they were responsible for, linked to disciplinary action. This also extends to evidence of grooming and/or developing inappropriate relationships with any participant under 18 with intent to pursue a future sexual relationship once that individual reaches adulthood. This positive change extends the legal reach of the Sexual Offences legislation which was previously limited to statutory roles including teachers, care workers and youth justice staff.

The Wales Safeguarding Procedures set out arrangements for responding to safeguarding concerns about those whose work, either in a paid or voluntary capacity, brings them into contact with children or adults at risk. It also includes individuals who have caring responsibilities for children or adults in need of care and support and their employment or voluntary work brings them into contact with children or adults at risk. In a golfing context, Positions of Trust will be those roles where an individual is coaching, teaching, supervising training or instructing a young person or an adult at risk on a regular basis. PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITEDwill ensure that those carrying out these activities, those in leadership roles and safeguarding/welfare roles are aware of the expectations of their role and of positions of trust.

All volunteers & coaches should read the Code of Conduct relevant to their role, and sign to indicate their understanding and agreement to act in accordance with the code. The code is linked to the Wales Golf Disciplinary Procedures and the sanctions set out within them. Where concerns arise that may indicate potential abuse/a crime has been committed or thresholds for statutory agency consideration have been met, a referral to the police and/or social services will be made without delay and advice sought. All Wales Golf and Club level action will be held pending the outcome of a statutory agency decision or investigation. During the course of any investigation however (internal, where thresholds do not meet statutory thresholds for intervention, or external), a temporary suspension may be imposed from golfing activities by the Club and/or Wales Golf whilst concerns are clarified and information is gathered. This is a neutral act intended to protect all parties and not an indication of guilt.

1. COMPLAINTS, CONCERNS AND ALLEGATIONS

1.1 As a player, parent, carer, member of staff or volunteer you may be concerned about the welfare of an adult, observe behaviours or attitudes which appear to be having a negative impact, become aware that abuse or poor practice is taking place, suspect abuse or poor practice may be occurring or be told about something that may be abuse or poor practice. These concerns may arise both within your activities or outside of these activities/services and should be brought to the attention of the PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITEDWelfare Officer andWales Golf Lead Safeguarding Officer without delay (see contact information on page 10). The person reporting the concern is not required to decide whether abuse has occurred or to seek the adult’s consent, but simply has a duty to share their concerns and any relevant information. In the event of an emergency, where you believe an adult may be at risk of or experiencing significant harm, please call the police 999.

1.2 All concerns will be treated in confidence. Details should only be shared on a ‘need to know’ basis with those who can help with the management of the concern.

1.3 Concerns will be recorded on an Safeguarding Concern Report Form and sent to Wales Golf Lead Safeguarding Officer.

TheLead Safeguarding Officer will assist with completion of this formif required (see contact details on page 10).

1.4 PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED has appointed a Club Welfare Officer/Safeguarding Lead to ensure that safeguarding support and advice is accessible and informed at club level (see contact details on page 10). The Club Welfare Officer will work with Wales Golf, and other external agencies to take appropriate action where concerns relate to potential abuse or serious poor practice. PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED disciplinary procedures will be applied and followed where possible.

1.5 Safeguarding adults at risk requires everyone to be committed to the highest possible standards of openness, integrity, and accountability. PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED supports an environment where staff, volunteers, parents/carers, and the public are encouraged to raise safeguarding concerns. Anyone who reports a legitimate concern to the organisation (even if their concerns subsequently appear to be unfounded) will be supported. All concerns will be taken seriously.

1.6 It is important when considering your concern that you also consider the needs and wishes of the person at risk.

1.7 If any person has knowledge, concerns, or suspicions that a child or adult is suffering, has suffered or is likely to be at risk of abuse, it is their responsibility to ensure that the concerns are referred to social services or the police who have statutory duties and powers to make enquiries and intervene when necessary. The Wales Safeguarding Procedures make it clear that THIS IS NOT A MATTER OF PERSONAL CHOICEand the Wales Golf Safeguarding Lead Officer will be able to provide support to do this.

2. RESPONDING TO CONCERNS AND/OR DISCLOSURE OF ABUSE

2.1 If an adult indicates that they are being harmed or abused the person receiving the

information should:

Stay Calm
Listen carefully to what is said, allowing the adult to continue at their own pace, and take it seriously.
Explain that it is likely the information will have to be shared with others- do not promise to keep secrets.
Keep questions to a minimum, only ask questions if you need to identify/ clarify what the person is telling you. Take care to distinguish between fact, observation, allegation, and opinion. It is important that the information you have is accurate.
Reassure the person that they have done the right thing in sharing the information

Ask them what they think might help and what they would like to happen next.
Explain what you would like to do next and ask if they are happy for you to share the information in order for you to help them. As long as it does not increase the risk to the individual, you should explain to them that it is your duty to share your concern with your Club Welfare Officer or Wales Golf’s Lead Safeguarding Officer.
Record in writing what was said using the adult’s own words as soon as possible.

2.2 DO NOT:

Dismiss the concern.
Panic or allow shock or distaste to show.
Probe for more information than is offered.
Make promises that cannot be kept.
Conduct an investigation of the case.
Make negative comments about the alleged perpetrator.

2.3 If the matter is urgent and relates to the immediate safety of an adult at risk

then contact the police immediately. Complete an Incident Form and copy it

to the Wales Golf Lead Safeguarding Officer within 24 hours so that support and advice can be provided appropriately.

2.4 In all other cases, where you have concerns about the safety and well-being of an adult, seek support and advice from the Club’s Welfare Officer and/or Wales Golf’s Safeguarding Lead Officer without delay. The incident form provides useful guidance to ensure that all critical information which might be required in order to take action is recorded.

3. SIGNS AND INDICATORS OF ABUSE AND NEGLECT

3.1 Abuse can take place in any context. Abuse may be inflicted by anyone.

Players, members, staff, volunteers, or coaches may suspect that an adult

is being abused or neglected outside of the club setting. There are many signs

and indicators that may suggest someone is being harmed, abused, or neglected, these

include but are not limited to:

Unexplained bruises or injuries, inconsistency with the account of what happened or lack of medical attention when an injury is present.
Person has belongings or money going missing.
Person is not attending / no longer enjoying their sessions. You may notice that a participant has been missing from practice sessions and is not responding to reminders from team members or coaches.
Someone losing or gaining weight / an unkempt appearance. This could be a player whose appearance becomes unkempt, does not wear suitable sports clothing and there is a deterioration in hygiene.
A change in the behaviour or confidence of a person. For example, a participant may be looking quiet and withdrawn when their brother comes to collect them from sessions in contrast to their personal assistant whom they greet with a smile.
Avoidance of eye contact.
Changes in posture and movement.
They may self-harm.
They may have a fear of a particular group of people or individual.
They may tell you / another person they are frightened of someone or that someone is abusing them (a disclosure).
Harassment of a participant because they are or are perceived to have protected characteristics.
Not meeting the needs of the participant. E.g. training without a necessary break.
A coach or carer intentionally striking a player or threatening to do so verbally or through gestures.
A participant who sends unwanted sexually explicit text messages to an adult with learning disabilities they are training alongside.
A participant threatening another participant with physical harm and persistently blaming them for poor performance.

4. CONSENT

4.1 The Social Services and Wellbeing (Wales) Act 2014 statutory guidance advises that the first priority in safeguarding should always be to ensure the safety and well-being of the adult.

4.2 Adults have a general right to independence, choice and self-determination including control over information about themselves. The new Wales Safeguarding Procedures state clearly that, irrespective of the adult at risk’s views, the advice and support of the local authority (social services) must be sought through referral or the police must be informed if it is felt that there is an immediate risk of harm. Contact Wales Golf’s Safeguarding Team for support and advice. Follow these procedures and don’t wait until you are certain. It is essential that you do not let subjective factors prevent you from taking action, including:

fear of actual or perceived threats from the family and or community;
concern that the referral is a breach of trust;
wish to retain control and manage the situation locally;
over identification with those who may be negatively impacting the adult at risk and making excuses and/or justifying potentially abusive behaviours;
concerns that the report will not be taken seriously;
worries that the report will result in considerable distress for the adult at risk and others, but no meaningful help and support will be provided because of lack of resources;
making excuses for behaviour;
normalising a particular form of abuse or neglect because of the commonality of a particular situation.
a belief that the behaviour may be acceptable in a particular culture or religion.
over-optimism about a situation: seeing it as a one-off or accident;
reluctance to accept professionals or those in higher socio-economic groups can perpetrate abuse or neglect;
being re-assured by an abuser they have/will change and/or engaged with services.

4.3 PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED does not expect staff, coaches, or volunteers to support an adult who is felt to be vulnerable or at risk through their decision-making process but expects them to inform Wales Golf without delay so that they can clearly define the various options to help support the adult at risk to make a decision about their safety. As long as it does not increase the risk to the individual, it should be explained to them that it is their duty to share their concern with the Wales Golf Safeguarding Lead Officer. Consent is not required to seek guidance or share information with the National Governing Body and support from the Wales Golf Safeguarding Lead Officer should be sought without delay.

4.4 Adults may not give their consent to the sharing of safeguarding information outside of the organisation for a number of reasons. For example, they may be unduly influenced, coerced or intimidated by another person, they may be frightened of reprisals, they may fear losing control, they may not trust social services or other partners or they may fear that their relationship with the abuser will be damaged. Reassurance and appropriate support may help to change their view on whether it is best to share information.

4.5 Those seeking to support the adult should consider the following:

Explore the reasons for the adult’s objections – what are they worried about?
Explain the concern and why you think it is important to share the information
Tell the adult with whom you will be sharing the information with and why in line with Wales Golf and national safeguarding procedures.
Seek to provide reassurance. Explain the benefits, to them or others, of sharing information – could they access better help and support?
Discuss the consequences of not sharing the information – could someone come to harm?
Reassure them that the information will not be shared with anyone who does not need to know
Reassure them that they are not alone and that support is available to them.

4.6 You should always advise the adult at risk that you will be seeking the support and advice of the Wales Golf Safeguarding Lead Officer, unless to do so might increase immediate risk to the adult (through their own actions, suicidal actions for example) or because possible disclosure to and action by the alleged abuser.

4.7 It should be noted that there have always been a number of circumstances where those seeking to support the adult must make a referral to the statutory agencies without their consent, including but not limited to:

It appears that the adult lacks the mental capacity to make that decision (this must be properly explored and further guidance should be sought from the Wales Golf Lead Safeguarding Officer)
Emergency or life-threatening situations may warrant the sharing of relevant information with the emergency services without consent
Other people are, or may be, at risk, including children
A serious crime has been committed / may be prevented
Individuals in a Position of Trust are implicated

4.7.1 It is important to keep a careful record of the decision making process and guidance should be sought from the Wales Golf Lead Safeguarding Officer. Legal advice will be sought where appropriate. If a decision is to take action without the adult’s consent, then unless it is unsafe to do so, the adult should be informed that this is being done and of the reasons why.

Useful Contacts

PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED Club Contacts
Name	Address	Number/Email
PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED Club Welfare Officer/Designated Safeguarding Lead	Lasgarn Lane Trevethin Pontypool NP4 8TR	01495 763655
PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED Club Secretary/Manager Mrs Dawn Scammell	Lasgarn Lane Trevethin Pontypool NP4 8TR	01495 763655 [email protected]
Wales Golf Contacts
Name	Address	Number
Lead Safeguarding Officer	Sian Simmons Wales Golf Catsash Newport NP18 1JQ	01633 436040 [email protected]
Deputy Safeguarding Officer	Linda Stokoe Wales Golf	01633 436044 [email protected]
Wales Golf Safeguarding Team		[email protected]

Local Contacts

Torfaen County Borough Council – Safeguarding Adults

01495 762200

Torfaen County Borough Council – Safeguarding Adults

Emergency Out of Hours

NOT GIVEN

National Contacts

Ann Craft Trust - Safeguarding Adults in Sport and Activity

Website: www.anncrafttrust.org

Email: [email protected]

Telephone: 0115 951 5400

Samaritans

08457 90 90

Wales Safeguarding Hub

Safeguarding Adults in Sport Manager,

Ann Craft Trust

Michael Harrison

Email: [email protected]

Telephone: 02920 334975

Mobile: 07704885507

NSPCC

Child Protection in Sport Unit

Cerri Dando-Thompson

Telephone: 02920 334975

Email: [email protected]

Mobile: 07563383180

What to do if you have a concern about an adult?

Where possible discuss your concerns with the adult.

Inform that you will have to share them with your Club Welfare Officer (CWO)*

If the CWO is implicated or there is a perceived conflict of interest, contact Wales Golf’s Safeguarding Lead Officer without delay

Ensure that you complete the Safeguarding Concern Report Form

You have a concern about an adult based on observations, disclosure or an allegation

When a decision is to make a safeguarding referral to the police or social service (Local Authority), the adult at risk’s views should be communicated and any issues relating to consent (or lack of it) explained.

If there are concerns that they remain at risk or others are at risk of harm you must make a referral and consent is not required under the Wales Safeguarding Procedures.

Remember

It is not your duty to investigate concerns about an adult but don’t ignore them and do respond positively – talk to the adult if possible and contact your CWO, the Wales Golf Safeguarding Lead Officer, social services or contacts set out on page 10 for advice

* If for any reason a Club Welfare Officer i not in post or is unavailable a principle of least delay is important. Please contact the Wales Golf Lead Safeguarding Officer

If there is an immediate risk and you need to ensure the immediate safety or medical welfare of an adult of the adult

The Club Welfare Officer should contact Wales Golf Lead Safeguarding Officer and give full details of the concerns.

Telephone Wales Golf on 01633 436040.

If there is any significant delay in responses from your CWO or Wales Golf contact the Local Authority Safeguarding Adults Team for advice

If there is not an immediate risk

Call 999 or 101 for an ambulance or the police

PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED

Capacity – Guidance on Making Decisions

The issue of capacity or decision making is a key one in safeguarding adults. It is useful to have an overview of the concept of capacity.

We make many decisions every day, often without realising. We make so many decisions that it’s easy to take this ability for granted.

But some people are only able to make some decisions, and a small number of people cannot make any decisions. Being unable to make a decision is called “lacking capacity”.

To make a decision we need to:

Understand information
Remember it for long enough
Think about the information
Communicate our decision

A person’s ability to do this may be affected by things like the impact of current trauma, learning disability, dementia, mental health needs, acquired brain injury, and physical ill health.

The Mental Capacity Act 2005 (MCA) states that every individual has the right to make their own decisions and provides the framework for this to happen.

The MCA is about making sure that people over the age of 16 have the support they need to make as many decisions as possible.

The MCA also protects people who need family, friends, or paid support staff to make decisions for them because they lack capacity to make specific decisions.

Our ability to make decisions can change over the course of a day. The following criteria should be considered when assessing whether a person on a particular occasion has sufficient understanding to consent, or to refuse consent, to sharing of information about them or participating in specific activities:

Can the person understand the question being asked of them?
Are they taking an active part in the discussion?
Can they explain how this situation arose e.g. what are the perceived benefits of the relationship or arrangements?
Can they rephrase the question in their own words?
How would they explain it to someone else?
Do they have a reasonable understanding of what the risks or benefits of giving their consent or saying no?
What do they say they think would happen if they agree the action being suggested?
Can they appreciate and consider the alternatives, weighing up one aspect against another and express a clear and consistent personal view? Encourage them to say out loud, or write down, their view of the pros and cons. You could recheck these views later or at a later meeting.

Here are some examples that demonstrate how the timing of a question can affect the response:

A person with epilepsy may not be able to make a decision following a seizure.
Someone who is anxious or traumatised may not be able to make a decision at that point.
A person may not be able to respond as quickly if they have just taken some medication that causes fatigue.

In each of these examples, it may appear as though the person cannot make a decision. But later in the day, presented with the same decision, they may be able to at least be involved.

The MCA recognises that capacity is decision-specific, so no one will be labelled as entirely lacking capacity. The MCA also recognises that decisions can be about big life-changing events, such as where to live, but equally about small events, such as what to wear on a cold day.

To help you to understand the MCA, consider the following five points:

Assume that people are able to make decisions, unless it is shown that they are not. If you have concerns about a person’s level of understanding, you should check this with them, and if applicable, with the people supporting them.
Give people as much support as they need to make decisions. You may be involved in this – you might need to think about the way you communicate or provide information, and you may be asked your opinion.
People have the right to make unwise decisions. The important thing is that they understand the implications. If they understand the implications, consider how risks might be minimised.
If someone is not able to make a decision, then the person helping them must only make decisions in their “best interests”. This means that the decision must be what is best for the person, not for anyone else. If someone was making a decision on your behalf, you would want it to reflect the decision you would make if you were able to.
Find the least restrictive way of doing what needs to be done.

Remember:

If any person has knowledge, concerns, or suspicions that an adult is suffering, has suffered or is likely to be at risk of abuse, it is their responsibility to ensure that the concerns are referred to social services or the police who have statutory duties and powers to make enquiries and intervene when necessary. The Wales Safeguarding Procedures make it clear that this is not a personal choiceand the Wales Golf Safeguarding Lead can support you to do this.
The obligation to take this action does not preclude working respectfully and in partnership with the person and enabling them to feel that they have some control and influence over decisions affecting them.
You should not discriminate or make assumptions about someone’s ability to make decisions, and you should not pre-empt a best-interest’s decision merely on the basis of a person’s age, appearance, condition, or behaviour.
When it comes to decision-making, you could be involved in a minor way, or asked to provide more detail. The way you provide information might influence a person’s ultimate decision. A person may be receiving support that is not in-line with the MCA, so you must be prepared to address this.

Relevant Policies

This policy should be read in conjunction with the following Wales Golf policies

Wales Golf Safeguarding Policy and Procedures (children and young people) – and appendices/resources
Whistle Blowing
Social media
Complaints
Disciplinary
Equality, diversity and inclusion

PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED

SAFEGUARDING CONCERN Report Form

Recorder’s Name:
Address:
Post Code:	Telephone No:
Email address:

Name of Identified Adult:
D.O.B:
Address:
Post Code:	Telephone No:
Email address (if known):

Person making the referral:
Role:
Address:
Post Code:		Telephone No:
Email:

Details of the concerns/allegations: [include: date; time; location; and nature of the incident]
Club/Event: Safeguarding Lead Name and Contact details:
Additional information: [include: witnesses; corroborative statements; carer information where appropriate etc.]
Have you discussed your concerns with the adult? What are their views? If you haven’t spoken to the adult, please explain why.
Wales Golf notified (01633 436040) Case Number (if allocated): Name of person spoken to:
Date: Time:
Action taken:
Date: Time:
Signature of Recorder: Signature of Referrer:
Data protection: Wales Golf may use the information in this form (together with other information they obtain as a result of any investigation) to investigate the alleged incident and to take whatever action is deemed appropriate, in accordance with their Safeguarding Adults Policy and Procedures. Strict confidentiality will be maintained and information will only be shared on a “need to know” basis in the interests of safeguarding. This may involve disclosing certain information to a number of organisations and individuals including relevant clubs and County bodies, individuals that are the subject of an investigation and/or Statutory agencies such as the Police and Adult Social Care.

PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED

GUIDANCE ON TYPES OF HARM

The Social Services and Well-Being (Wales) Act 2014 recognises 5 categories of abuse that may be experienced by adults. These are

Physical

Sexual

Psychological

Neglect

Financial

These categories are expanded below but the descriptions are not intended to be exhaustive and it does not matter whether you are unsure that a concern meets a threshold for abuse or, if so, which category. Action should be taken at the point when concerns arise as waiting until you are certain that harm has occurred leads to very poor outcomes in many cases.

Physical

Including hitting, slapping, pushing, kicking, misuse of medication, restraint or inappropriate sanctions.

Sexual

Including rape, indecent exposure, sexual harassment, inappropriate looking or touching, sexual teasing or innuendo, sexual photography, subjection to pornography or witnessing sexual acts, indecent exposure and sexual assault or sexual acts to which the adult has not consented or was pressured into consenting.

Emotional or Psychological

This includes threats of harm or abandonment, deprivation of contact, humiliation, blaming, controlling, intimidation, coercion, harassment, verbal abuse, isolation or withdrawal from services or supportive networks.

Neglect and acts of omission

Including ignoring medical or physical care needs, failure

to provide access to appropriate health social care or educational services, the withholding of the necessities of life, such as medication, adequate nutrition and heating.

Financial or Material

Including theft, fraud, internet scamming, coercion in relation to an adult’s financial affairs or arrangements, including in connection with wills, property, inheritance or financial transactions, or the misuse or misappropriation of property, possessions or benefits.

The Care Act 2014 and wider UK legislation identify a range of categories of abuse not included in Social Services and Wellbeing (Wales) Act 2014. These expand upon the above definitions of abuse where they take place in differing contexts. They are also relevant to safeguarding adults in sport and physical activity and include:

Self-neglect

This covers a wide range of behaviour: neglecting to care for one’s personal hygiene, health or surroundings and includes behaviour such as hoarding.

Modern Slavery / Human Trafficking

Encompasses slavery, human trafficking, forced labour and domestic servitude. Traffickers and slave masters use whatever means they have at their disposal to coerce, deceive and force individuals into a life of abuse, servitude and inhumane treatment

Domestic Abuse and coercive control

Including psychological, physical, sexual, financial and emotional abuse. It also includes so called 'honour' based violence. It can occur between any family members.

Discriminatory

Discrimination is abuse which centres on a difference or perceived difference particularly with respect to race, gender or disability or any of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act.

Organisational / Institutional

Including neglect and poor care practice within an institution or specific care setting such as a hospital or care home, for example, or in relation to care provided in one’s own home. This may range from one off incidents to on-going ill-treatment. It can be through neglect or poor professional practice as a result of the structure, policies, processes and practices within an organisation.

Exploitation

Is the deliberate maltreatment, manipulation or abuse of power and control over another person; to take advantage of another person or situation usually, but not always, for personal gain from using them as a commodity. It may manifest itself in many forms including slavery, servitude, forced or compulsory labour, domestic violence and abuse, sexual violence and abuse, or human trafficking.

Hate crime

Is any incident which constitutes a criminal offence perceived by the victim or any other person as being motivated by prejudice, discrimination or hate towards a person’s actual or perceived race, religious belief, sexual orientation, disability, political opinion or gender identity.

There are additional definitions which, whilst not included in legislation, interface with adult safeguarding:

Cyber Bullying

Cyber bullying occurs when someone repeatedly makes fun of another

person online or repeatedly picks on another person through emails or text messages, or uses online forums with the intention of harming, damaging, humiliating or isolating another person. It can be used to carry out many different types of bullying (such as racist bullying, homophobic bullying, or bullying related to special educational needs and disabilities) but instead of the perpetrator carrying out the bullying face-to-face, they use technology as a means to do it.

Forced Marriage

Forced marriage is a term used to describe a marriage in which one or both of the parties are married without their consent or against their will. A forced marriage differs from an arranged marriage, in which both parties consent to the assistance of a third party in identifying a spouse. The Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 makes it a criminal offence to force someone to marry. The forced marriage of adults with learning disabilities occurs when the adult does not have the capacity to consent to the marriage.

Mate Crime

A ‘mate crime’ as defined by the Safety Net Project is ‘when vulnerable people are befriended by members of the community who go on to exploit and take advantage of them. It may not be an illegal act but still has a negative effect on the individual. Mate Crime is carried out by someone the adult knows and often happens in private. In recent years there have been a number of Serious Case Reviews relating to people with a learning disability who were murdered or seriously harmed by people who purported to be their friend.

Radicalisation

The aim of radicalisation is to attract people to their reasoning, inspire new recruits and embed their extreme views and persuade vulnerable individuals of the legitimacy of their cause. This may be direct through a relationship or through social media.

Misogyny, sexual violence and sexual harassment

Misogyny is the prejudice, hatred, dislike, or mistrust of women, manifested in various forms such as physical intimidation and abuse, sexual harassment and rape, social shunning and ostracism. This can prevail unchallenged in strongly male dominated environments and cultures. It can manifest as ingrained and institutionalised prejudice against women and sexism and has become a strong focus of concerns in UK educational settings after widespread reports of sexual violence against teenagers in secondary education in March 2021. He revelations came after ‘Everyone’s Invited’[1], a website and Instagram page dedicated to giving students a platform to report cases of sexual abuse and harassment, became inundated with testimonies. Many girls who’ve spoken up have demanded that sexual violence and gender inequality be openly discussed and tackled by school leaders. These issues have been the source of concern and media attention in wider society (#MeToo movement[2]).

Microaggression

Microaggression is a term used for brief and commonplace daily verbal, behavioural or environmental indignities, whether intentional or unintentional, that communicate hostile, derogatory, or negative attitudes toward stigmatized or culturally marginalized groups. This is an area which particularly impacts those who are from Black and Minority ethnic groups. The term racial microaggressions was first proposed by psychiatrist Chester M. Pierce, MD, in the 1970s, but psychologists have significantly amplified the concept in recent years. Some racism is so subtle that neither victim nor perpetrator may entirely understand what is going on. For these individuals there is not a choice to be colour-blind or unaware of racism but for many white people it is extremely difficult to get them to realise and acknowledge that maybe at an unconscious level they have biased thoughts, attitudes and feelings that negatively impact or harm people of colour.

Honour-Based Violence (HBV)

‘Honour-based’ violence encompasses crimes which have been committed to protect or defend the honour of the family and/or the community, including Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), forced marriage, and practices such as breast ironing. All forms of HBV are considered to be abuse in the UK.

PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED

Consent and Information Sharing

Although we want to make safeguarding personal, there are some circumstances when we may need to take action without an adult’s consent. Sometimes an adult at risk may not want you to act on your concerns or their disclosure. This may be because they are scared or fearful of the repercussions from you taking action. It may also be because they are not aware abuse is taking place, or they have not got the mental capacity to make an informed decision and understand that remaining in their current situation is unsafe. Sharing information with the right people is central to good practice in safeguarding adults.

You must not keep safeguarding concerns about adults at risk to yourself. The Wales Safeguarding Procedures state clearly that if any person has knowledge, concerns or suspicions that an adult is suffering, has suffered or is likely to be at risk of abuse, it is their responsibility to ensure that the concerns are referred to social services or the police who have statutory duties and powers to make enquiries and intervene when necessary. Whilst this differs from the procedures within the other UK Home Nations, the Wales Safeguarding Procedures make it clear that this is not a matter of personal choice. Wales Golf’s Safeguarding Lead Officer will support you and your club to take appropriate action when concerns arise.

Explain to the adult that you must pass the concern on to your Safeguarding Lead, as you have a duty of care. You should reassure the adult that they will be fully included on what happens.

It is appropriate to report concerns without an adult’s consent when:

You have reason to be believe the adults health and or wellbeing will be adversely affected by ongoing harm.
Other people are, or may be, at risk from the person causing harm, including children.
It is necessary to prevent a crime, or a serious crime has been committed.
Sharing the information could prevent a crime and help to stop abuse.
The adult may be under duress or being coerced.
The alleged abuser has care and support needs and may also be at risk.

Workers and volunteers within sports and physical activity organisations should always share safeguarding concerns in line with their organisation’s policy, usually with their safeguarding lead or welfare officer in the first instance, except in emergency situations. If it does not increase the risk to the individual, the worker or volunteer should explain to them that it is their duty to share their concern with their safeguarding lead or welfare officer.

The safeguarding lead or welfare officer will then consider the situation and plan the actions that need to be taken, in conjunction with the adult at risk and in line with the organisation’s policy and procedures and relevant safeguarding adults board policy and procedures.

To make an adult safeguarding referral you need to call the local safeguarding adults team within social services. This may be part of a MASH (Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub). A conversation can be had with the safeguarding adult’s team without disclosing the identity of the person in the first instance. If it is thought that a referral needs to be made to the safeguarding adults team, consent should be sought where possible from the adult at risk.

Individuals may not give their consent to the sharing of safeguarding information with the safeguarding adults team for a number of reasons. Reassurance, appropriate support and revisiting the issues at another time may help to change their view on whether it is best to share information.

If they still do not consent, then their wishes should usually be respected. However, there are circumstances where information can be shared without consent. For example, when the adult does not have the capacity to consent, it is in the public interest because it may affect other people, or a serious crime has been committed. This should always be discussed with your safeguarding lead and the local authority safeguarding adults team.

When sharing information there are seven Golden Rules that should always be followed:

Seek advice if in any doubt.
Be transparent - The Data Protection Act (DPA) is not a barrier to sharing information but to ensure that personal information is shared appropriately; except in circumstances where by doing so places the person at significant risk of harm.
Consider the public interest - Base all decisions to share information on the safety and well-being of that person or others who may be affected by their actions.
Share with consent where appropriate - Where possible, respond to the wishes of those who do not consent to share confidential information. You must still share safeguarding concerns and information without consent in Wales.
Keep a record - Record your decision and reasons to share or not share information.
Accurate, necessary, proportionate, relevant and secure - Ensure all information shared is accurate, up-to-date, necessary and share with only those who need to have it.

PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED

Legislation and Government Initiatives are documented here. Links are also provided further information and ease of access.

Wales - Social Services and Well Being Act 2014

http://www.legislation.gov.uk/anaw/2014/4/pdfs/anaw_20140004_en.pdf

Reforms and integrates social services’ lawmaking provisions for improving well-being outcomes for people who need care and support. Requiring coordination and partnership by public authorities to improve wellbeing. It replaces No Secrets and puts adult safeguarding on a statutory footing.

England - Care Act 2014 – statutory guidance
http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2014/23/introduction/enacted

The Care Act introduces new responsibilities for local authorities. It also has major implications for adult care and support providers, people who use services, carers and advocates. It replaces No Secrets and puts adult safeguarding on a statutory footing.

Protection of Freedoms Act 2012

http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2012/9/contents/enacted

Brought about a wide range of measures, regarding numerous areas of law. Notably changes to the vetting and barring system to create the Disclosure and Barring Service.

Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims (Amendment) Act 2012

http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2012/4/contents/enacted

Creates an offence of causing or allowing the death or serious harm of a child or adult at risk for those within the household.

Serious Crime Act 2015

https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/serious-crime-bill

This Act addresses increasing safeguarding and criminal concerns about sexual communications with children and young people (Section 67) and coercion and control (section 76). It creates an offence in relation to controlling and coercive behaviour in an intimate or family relationships and this can be a critical issue in undermining an individual’s ability/capacity to give or withhold informed consent and/or to recognise themselves as being at risk or abused.

Equality Act 2010

https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2010/15/contents

The Act legally protects people from discrimination in the workplace and in wider society. It replaced previous anti-discrimination laws with a single Act, making the law easier to understand and strengthening protection in some situations. It identified nine protected personal characteristics which increase the risk of individuals being at increased risk of abuse, disadvantage or discrimination. Safeguarding concerns may arise where it is indicated that the following personal characteristics have been a factor:

Age
Disability
Gender reassignment
Marriage and civil partnership
Pregnancy and maternity
Race
Religion and belief
Gender
Sexual orientation

Children and Families Act 2014

https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2014/6/contents/enacted

This Act seeks to improve services for vulnerable children and young people and to reform the systems for adoption, looked-after children, family justice and special educational needs. It is relevant to adult protection because it extends the support, resources and protection available to those who are transitioning into adulthood e.g. care leavers, those with a recognised disability. As a result of this legislation, ’Staying Put’ arrangements extend the rights of those aged over 18 to remain in supported households with their former foster carers until their 21^st birthday and for those with special educational needs or disability to access additional protection and support up to the age of 25 years.

England & Wales - Mental Capacity Act 2005
http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/9/introduction

Its general principle is that everybody has capacity unless it is proved otherwise, that they should be supported to make their own decisions, that anything done for or on behalf of people without capacity must be in their best interests and there should be least restrictive intervention. www.dca.gov.uk

Sexual Offences Act 2003
http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2003/42/contents

The Sexual Offences Act introduced a number of new offences concerning adults at risk and children. www.opsi.gov.uk

‘Position of Trust’ is a legal term referring to roles and settings where an adult has direct and regular contact with and responsibility for a child or individual who may be additionally vulnerable. These positions create power imbalances and potential dependency (for example, teachers, nurses, care workers, social workers). Whilst positions of trust are not yet legally covered within the sport sector, all of the recognised sports governing bodies and the NSPCC continue to campaign to have this loophole closed. Under current safeguarding policies and procedures Wales Golf will always seek support and advice in relation to concerns arising about staff, volunteers or coaches who hold a position of responsibility in relation to vulnerable groups from the statutory agencies in the first instance.

Human Rights Act 1998

https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1998/42/contents

Designed to incorporate into UK law the rights contained in the European Convention on Human Rights. The Act makes a remedy for breach of a Convention right available in UK courts, without the need to go to the European Court. In particular, the Act makes it unlawful for any public body to act in a way which is incompatible with the Convention, unless the wording of any other primary legislation provides no other choice.

Data Protection Act 2018 (including General Data Protection Regulations)

2018 Act - http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2018/12/contents/enacted

GDPR - https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32016R0679&from=EN

The original 1998 DPA was superseded in May 2018. The new Act supplements the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which came into effect later the same month. The Act is designed to protect personal data stored on computers or on paper, regulating collection, storage, and use. The Act provides individuals with the legal rights to control information about themselves. No current UK legislation including GDPR, precludes the sharing of information where there are safeguarding concerns as the prevention of harm and safeguarding of the most vulnerable in society (children and adults at risk) is actively recognised and supported as the primary consideration in all cases.

Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006
http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2006/47/contents

Introduced the new Vetting and Barring Scheme and the role of the Independent Safeguarding Authority. The Act places a statutory duty on all those working with vulnerable groups to register and undergo an advanced vetting process with criminal sanctions for non-compliance. www.opsi.gov.uk

Modern Slavery Act 2015 (updated 2017)

https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/modern-slavery

https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2015/30/contents/enacted

This Act sought to address increasing concerns around criminal exploitation, human trafficking and slavery, servitude and forced/compulsory labour in the UK. This is an increasing issue and it is important to note that this can look very varied in terms of how an individual may be harmed or exploited (e.g. agricultural work, domestic work, nail bars etc.). The consent of a person (whether an adult or a child) to any of the acts alleged to constitute holding the person in slavery or servitude, or requiring the person to perform forced or compulsory labour, does not preclude a determination that the person is being held in slavery or servitude, or required to perform forced or compulsory labour.

Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015

https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/counter-terrorism-and-security-bill#:~:text=The%20Counter%2DTerrorism%20and%20Security%20Act%20contains%20powers%20to%20help,then%20return%20to%20the%20UK

This act contains powers to enable the UK to respond to extremism, radicalisation and terrorism. The ‘Prevent’ strategy and anti-radicalisation statutory responsibilities sit under this legislation. It is increasingly apparent that many of those who have become radicalised have been identified as vulnerable (isolated, Autistic spectrum, communication differences, socially and educationally disadvantaged) and then targeted and groomed. Concerns should be responded to as a safeguarding issue at the earliest possible opportunity to ensure that an adult at risk is supported, protected and prevented from becoming radicalised and criminalised. Any immediate risk of significant harm to the individual or others however must be immediately reported to the police.

Liberty Protection Standards (LPS)

Replace the Deprivation of Liberty Standards (DoLS) which were introduced into the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and came into force in April 2009. The new MCA Code provides updated guidance and was introduced under the Mental Capacity (Amendment) Act 2019 to set out a two-stage test of capacity with an increased the focus upon appropriate advocacy and support for the individua, a reduction of bureaucracy to avoid delays which potentially increase risk and guidance around both executive capacity and fluctuating capacity. Designed to provide appropriate safeguards for vulnerable people who have a mental disorder and lack the capacity to consent to the arrangements made for their care or treatment, and who may be deprived of their liberty in their best interests in order to protect them from harm.

Disclosure & Barring Service 2013
https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/disclosure-and-barring-service/about

Criminal record checks: guidance for employers - How employers or organisations can request criminal records checks on potential employees from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). www.gov.uk/dbs-update-service

Making Safeguarding Personal Guide 2014

http://www.local.gov.uk/documents/10180/5852661/Making+Safeguarding+Personal+-+Guide+2014/4213d016-2732-40d4-bbc0-d0d8639ef0df

This guide is intended to support councils and their partners to develop outcomes-focused, person-centred safeguarding practice.

Title	Club Template Safeguarding Adults Policy
Author(s)	Sian Simmons/Gillian Camina
Document Date	February 2023
Version	6.0
Status	Live
Next review date	February 25

Revision History

Version	Date	Amended by	Summary of Changes
5.0	September 2020	Gillian Gamina	Review
6.0	February 23	Gillian Camina	Legislation changes and review

[1]https://www.everyonesinvited.uk/

[2]https://metoomvmt.org/

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PONTYPOOL GOLF CLUB LIMITED

MEMBERS’ CODE OF CONDUCT

Introduction

While we see Pontypool Golf Club as a relaxed modern golf club, some behaviour is deemed unacceptable; therefore we must define unacceptable behaviour so as to recognise that our standards are not compromised in any way at any time.

Pontypool Golf Club is committed to providing an environment that is free of discrimination, harassment and intimidation for its members, employees and guests.

Members, guests and visitors are all reminded that an acceptable standard of behaviour is expected in all areas of the Club and course, at all times and that upon payment of membership or green fees, all members, guests and visitors have given their consent to be bound by both the restrictions and penalties which may be imposed for any breach of the club’s standards and policies, or serious misconduct in failing to meet the standards set in this Code of Conduct.

Members will be liable for any breach committed whether by themselves or their guests.

In the Clubhouse

Members, guests and visitors are reminded that:

Any form of discrimination is regarded as unacceptable behaviour.

Intimidating, harassing or putting any member of staff in a situation where they feel distressed in anyway;
Intimidating, harassing or putting any member in a situation where they feel distressed in anyway;
Failure to comply with a reasonable request from a member of staff with regards to safety or compliance issues for the club;
Consumption of excessive quantities of alcohol is not permitted by law. Please do not be offended if service is refused;
The use of foul or abusive language such as swearing has no place in the clubhouse and any member heard using unacceptable or offensive language will be asked to either stop or leave the premises. Where someone is noticed to be consistently using bad language after being warned then their continued membership will be reviewed accordingly;
Smoking or the use of e-cigarettes is not permitted within any of the club buildings;
The taking of illegal substances will incur immediate suspension and loss of membership;
The smoking of cigarettes or e-cigarettes is not permitted in the clubhouse;
Be considerate towards others when using your Mobile phone in the clubhouse;
The use or possession of ANY illegal substances is strictly prohibited anywhere on Pontypool Golf Club owned property, course and club house, use or possession of illegal substances may result in termination of membership with immediate effect.

Any reported unacceptable behaviour will be investigated and could result in disciplinary action being taken.

Conclusion

Whilst Pontypool Golf Club fully acknowledge that adult “banter” contributes to creating a healthy atmosphere amongst members, these rules are designed to safeguard others who find such banter offensive and/or intimidating. This Code of Conduct is not intended to create a bureaucratic, regulatory environment, but rather to promote and enhance our Club’s values.

A person engaging in any behaviour that may be detrimental to the game of golf or Pontypool Golf Club is in breach of the code of conduct and should be reported to the Secretary in writing as soon as possible.

It is in the best interests of the game that such behaviour is reported, and all players, members and members of the public are encouraged and have a duty to report such behaviour.

Approved by: The Board

Date: 27th September 2023

AFFORDABLE MEMBERSHIP

The Club has an affordable membership fee of £520 per annum for anyone who has difficulty in paying full membership fees. Details on how to apply can be obtained from the Secretary.

AVAILABLE LOCKERS AND TROLLEY STORAGE

Any Member who wishes to occupy a locker or trolley storage, both are now available to rent. Please see the Secretary, Mrs Dawn Scammell, in the office to be allocated a locker or trolley space.

Club Notices

Dress Code Policy & Etiquette
The Board are keen to embrace change and promote the club and course as a family-friendly venue where members and visitors can enjoy playing the course and relax in a more informal atmosphere. The changes below reflect Pontypool Golf Club's modern approach to golf.

On The Course
Permitted - Polo Shirts and Round Turtle-Neck Shirts. Tailored Shorts and Plain Cargo Shorts (Not below knee length). Plain Matching Socks (Including Trainer Socks).
Not Permitted - Shirts with Large Advertisements/Logos. Rugby or Football Shirts. Camouflage Shorts. Crop Trousers .

In The Club House
Permitted
Private Functions - No Dress Code or Restrictions.
Club Functions - As determined by the Function.
Member's Bar - Tailored Jeans (Single-Coloured). Collared Shirts. Polo Shirts. Square shirts worn outside trousers. Appropriate Clean & Tidy Footwear.
Not Permitted
Ripped or Bleach-Coloured Jeans. Rugby or Football Shirts. Emblazoned T-Shirts.
Tailed shirts worn outside trousers. No Beachwear.

Etiquette
Members' guests & visitors are expected to have good golf course etiquette and repair all divots and pitch marks on the greens.
Golfers must also smooth over marks in bunkers.
Golfers may not share golf bags or clubs.
Golfers shall always observe the requests from staff in relation to speed of play.
The club reserves the right to remove any individual from the course who persistently fails to observe the rules of golf etiquette or directions from the staff.

Wireless Communication Devices (WCDs)
We recognise that in today’s environment wireless communication devices are necessary to both personal and business lives. WCDs must be set in silent/vibrate mode and any use of WCDs must not detract from other members' and guests' enjoyment of the Golf Course and Clubhouse.
Do consider others when making audible use of mobile phones and wireless devices.

Liability
The club does not accept responsibility for loss of property.
Please be aware that each player has a liability of safeguarding the surrounding property.
Should any damage or injury occur as a result of players' negligence then they will be held responsible for such damage or injury.