Child Protection Policy

SBG Orkney outlines here a clear child protection policy in line with Sport Scotland & Charity Children’s 1st guidelines on Safeguarding Children in Sport. SBG Orkney acknowledges the duty of care to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and is committed to ensuring safeguarding practice reflects statutory responsibilities, and government guidance and complies with best practice and UK Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Association (UKBJJA) requirements. The policy recognises that the welfare and interests of children are paramount in all circumstances. It aims to ensure that regardless of age, ability or disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation, or socio-economic background, all children: 

  • have a positive and enjoyable experience of sport at SBG Orkney in a safe and child-centred environment
  • are protected from abuse whilst participating in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or outside of the activity.

SBG Orkney acknowledges that some children, including differently abled children and young people or those from LGBTQI+ or ethnic minority communities, can be particularly vulnerable to abuse and we accept the responsibility to take reasonable and appropriate steps to ensure their welfare.

As part of our safeguarding policy, SBG Orkney will:

 

  • promote and prioritise the safety and wellbeing of children and young people
  • ensure everyone understands their roles and responsibilities concerning safeguarding and is provided with appropriate learning opportunities to recognise, identify and respond to signs of abuse, neglect and other safeguarding concerns relating to children and young people
  • ensure appropriate action is taken in the event of incidents/concerns of abuse and support provided to the individual/s who raise or disclose the concern
  • ensure that confidential, detailed and accurate records of all safeguarding concerns are maintained and securely stored
  • prevent the employment/deployment of unsuitable individuals
  • ensure robust safeguarding arrangements and procedures are in operation.

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

The named Child Protection & Wellbeing Officer is Michael McDaid, whose responsibilities will include promoting this policy and ensuring it is implemented; being a first point of contact for any concerns from both team members and members of the public; and ensuring any concerns reported are addressed in line with national, local and UKBJJA legislations. Michael is Sports Scotland CWPO certified, and in his mental health nurse training and his background in working with vulnerable child and adult groups, Michael has also received extensive Child Protection training and has up-to-date First Aid and Immediate Life Support qualifications.

The policy will be reviewed a year after development and then every three years, or in the following circumstances:

  • changes in legislation and/or government guidance
  • as required by the Local Safeguarding Children Board, UK Sport and/or Home Country Sports Councils and the UKBJJA as a result of any other significant change or event

Vulnerable Adults Policy

As per our child protection policy, we also apply the same rule set to our protection of vulnerable adult groups policy, and we follow the guidance provided by Sport Scotland and UKBJJA.