Athletics Welfare Procedures (incorporating Child Protection) UK Athletics

Transcription

1 Athletics Welfare Procedures (incorporating Child Protection) UK Athletics working in partnership with: AAA of England Northern Ireland Athletics Federation Scottish Athletics Limited Welsh Athletics January 2005 Welfare Procedure 1

2 2 Welfare Procedure

3 Contents Page Introduction and foreword...3 Scope...6 Welfare Diagrams...7 Procedures Roles in relation to Athletics Welfare 2. Recruitment, selection and induction of staff and volunteers 3. Checks and references 4. Interviews and induction 5. Education and training 6. Monitoring and appraisal 7. Complaints procedures 8. Responding to suspicions, disclosures and allegations 9. Guidance for the designated Welfare Officer 10. Bullying 11. Substance abuse 12. Psychological stress and burnout 13. Expert advice 14. Support for the reporter of suspected abuse or misconduct 15. Types of investigation 16. Internal enquiries, suspension and reinstatement 17. Dealing with the aftermath of an allegation 18. Use of photographic filming equipment at athletics events 19.Trips away from home 20. Relationships 21. Monitoring the policy Codes of conduct...35 Appendices...43 Application form Self declaration Consent form for parents/carers Fit person checklist Incident report form Guidelines on use of Photographic and Filming Equipment Sources of Help Figures 1a Concern about child abuse or other criminal act against someone within the sport 7 1b Concern about child abuse or other criminal act involving someone outside the sport 9 1c Concern about welfare or misconduct excluding inappropriate sexual behaviour, criminal or violent act 11 2 Identifying misconduct, poor practice, abuse and bullying 21 For abbreviations see welfare policy document Procedures for Athletics Welfare in the UK prepared by UK Athletics (UKA), Amateur Athletics Association for England (AAAE), Welsh Athletics (WA), Northern Ireland Athletics Federation (NIAF) and Scottish Athletics Limited (SAL) in association with Celia Brackenridge Welfare Procedure 3

5 Introduction It is intended that the Athletics Welfare Policy and Procedures will become living, working documents that coaches, officials, administrators, athletes, parents and other individuals will want to adopt. The policy, procedures and subsequent implementation strategies are a statement of the confidence we have in our sport and in our systems to deliver on such issues.the policies state not only what our core values are but also what we define as acceptable within our sport.the documents serve to demonstrate our accountability as a provider of a service irrespective of the status of the provider, whether they are volunteers or paid people within the sport. The policy and procedures also demonstrate that in line with other voluntary agencies and also in line with other sports in the UK, we are cogniscent of the need to determine what good standards are. While the content of the welfare policy and procedures are primarily intended to develop a sense of awareness as well as procedural guidance for athletics in relation to child protection, it is essential that the key principles contained in this document are recognised as being founded on key principles of equality and social justice for all in our sport. These principles extend to all who take part in athletics irrespective of age, gender, disability, vulnerable persons, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity religion and political view. The welfare policy therefore serves as a template for further action in each and all of these areas. It serves to guide all in the sport and those from outside the sport as to the strength and robust nature of the duty of care that the sport has for all those involved in athletics throughout the UK.The welfare policy document should be both a consultative document and a living document and UKA in conjunction with the four home nations is committed to expanding the remit of the welfare policy so that it is as inclusive as possible.those reading the document should be mindful therefore that while the central focus currently is the identification of one of the more vulnerable groups in the sport (i.e. children) the document also serves to outline policies and procedures, which could equally apply across a range of issues in that UKA, and the four home nations will be adding to the document as a matter of course. UKA, AAAE, WA, NIAF, SAL will promote the welfare of the child as the paramount consideration in all activities and events and will encourage and support children and young people to express their views about matters which affect them. We will promote working in partnership with parents and carers. With support from partner agencies, we will undertake a regular review of welfare information and procedures to ensure compliance with changes in legislation, guidance and best practice. Foreword In order to meet their duty of care all athletics agencies will: - provide and enforce procedures to safeguard the well being of all participants and protect them from abuse. respect and promote the rights, wishes and feelings of young people, disabled and/or vulnerable adults recruit, train and supervise its employees and volunteers to adopt best practise to safeguard and protect young people from abuse, and themselves against false allegations or misinterpretation of actions require staff/volunteers to adopt and abide by the Athletics Welfare Policy and Procedures (incorporating child protection), code of conduct and the relevant grievance, investigatory and disciplinary procedures. respond to any allegations appropriately and implement the complaints, disciplinary and appeals procedures when necessary. UKA will work with Home Countries to: Promote adherence to the welfare policy and procedures through providing education, training and information Develop good practice guidance in relation to recruitment, selection, training of coaches, officials, volunteers and all individuals within the sport Establish welfare officers at national and local level Produce information material for those involved in athletics As a National Governing Body, UKA operates in partnership with other individuals and organisations, including the HCs, UK Sports Institute and home country Sports Councils. UKA will meet its moral and legal obligations in respect of child protection, duty of care and standards of welfare for all, and expects its national and local partners and collaborators to do the same. Welfare Procedure 5

6 SCOPE Athletics stakeholders (see Athletics Welfare Policy) need to respond to four main dimensions of welfare and protection by: 1. recognising and referring to the appropriate agency anyone who has been subjected to poor practice, abuse or misconduct by someone else, whether inside sport (by another staff member or athlete) or outside sport (such as the family or peer group); 2. observing and encouraging good practice when working with athletes in order to avoid perpetrating poor practice, abuse or other types of misconduct; 3. taking precautions to avoid being involved in situations which may give rise to concern; 4. safeguarding the good name and integrity of the sport of athletics. The procedures adopted in this volume should assist with safe practice with respect to all four dimensions of welfare in the sport. The 'golden rule' for all involved in athletics in relation to welfare and protection is that it is not your responsibility to judge whether or not a welfare violation has taken place but it is your responsibility to act on any concerns you may have. The following flow charts provide a quick reference guide to support you in responding to concerns: 6 Welfare Procedure

7 Figure 1a Welfare Procedure 7

9 Figure 1b Welfare Procedure 9

11 Figure 1c Welfare Procedure 11

13 PROCEDURES 1. Roles in relation to Athletics Welfare Effective implementation of Athletics Welfare requires all those delivering athletics to work in close partnership. Key roles and responsibilities in this regard are listed below. The role of the Clubs is to: appoint or identify at least one Club Child Protection/Welfare Officer (WO),preferably one male and one female and notify HCs and Club Services at UKA of their name and contact details accept that all officers and committee members have responsibilities for upholding the policy and procedures and for responding to any suspected breaches of it wherever possible involve children and parents in the development of policies, procedures, codes of conduct and the general implementation of welfare amend poor practice (see Codes of Conduct) implement recommendations from UKA and HC relating to welfare and/or child protection through the club WO, inform the social services without delay if a concern about child abuse is identified (if the WO is not available, or the concern is about them, then the person with concerns or being informed of them should immediately contact the local social services or the police). Inform UKA or the HC Welfare Officer. ensure that contact details for social services, the police and NSPCC (or the social work department in Scotland) are made available to all club organisers, coaches and officials maintain confidentiality of the those disclosing, those accused of misconduct and any alleged victims For general misconduct cases (non welfare) appoint a disciplinary panel, operate this in accordance with the Grievance and Disciplinary Procedures. Refer disciplinary case in relation to athletics welfare to UKA and / or HC welfare team. Refer decisions of other disciplinary cases to panel as appropriate. The role of the Club Welfare Officer is to: ensure that all club helpers/officials/coaches complete a volunteer reference form (see Fit Person Checklist in Appendix) send a copy of any such forms to UKA / HC on request receive and advise on reports or disclosures from club members work with UKA and partners when requested to ensure CRB process is in place initiate action, ensuring that all appropriate persons have been contacted inform the UKA / HC WO of any cases of misconduct that may involve child abuse maintain up to date knowledge of welfare and child protection issues with support from UKA / HC refer all media enquiries about suspected or reported abuse or poor practice to UKA / HC. The role of the County/ Regional /Territorial /Area Welfare Officer is to: receive and advise on reports or disclosures at county level or about child protection issues at club, county or area level put in place procedures for a disciplinary enquiry where necessary maintain up to date knowledge of welfare and child protection issues initiate action, ensuring that all appropriate persons have been contacted inform the UKA / HC WO of any cases of misconduct that involve child abuse or athletics welfare issues (see Fig 1) refer all media enquiries about suspected or reported abuse or poor practice to UKA/ HC WO work with UKA and partners when requested to ensure CRB process in place Welfare Procedure 13

14 The role of the HC i.e. Amateur Athletics Association of England, Welsh Athletics, Northern Ireland Athletics Federation, Scottish Athletic Limited and UK Athletics is to: appoint a Welfare Officer or identify a welfare team appoint a Disciplinary Panel when necessary provide training, support and guidance for club / county / regional / territorial and area WOs to be aware that UKA maintains and updates regularly a national record of all suspended and disqualified persons and act accordingly liaise closely with partners over disciplinary matters related to welfare and misconduct and over the identification of training needs in this area inform all appropriate individuals and bodies of disciplinary enquiries on a need to know basis handle all media enquiries about suspected or reported abuse or poor practice monitor the effectiveness of the Athletics Welfare Policy 14 Welfare Procedure

15 2. Recruitment, selection and induction of paid staff All reasonable steps will be taken to ensure unsuitable people are prevented from working in athletics, especially with young people and disabled or vulnerable adults. Advertising will reflect: the Athletics Welfare Policy the responsibilities of the role the level of experience or qualifications required a positive stance on all aspects of welfare and child protection Pre-application information will be sent to interested or potential applicants and will include: a job description including roles and responsibilities a person specification (e.g. stating qualifications or experience required) an application pack Applications will be required for all positions, whether paid or voluntary, full- or part-time positions. The application pack will ask for: name, address and National Insurance Number (to confirm identity and right to work) relevant experience, qualifications and training undertaken. listing of past career or involvement in sport (to confirm experience and identify any gaps) whether the applicants are known to any social services department as being an actual or potential risk to children or young people, the completion of a self-declaration form to establish whether they have ever had action taken against them in relation to child abuse, sexual offences or violence the names of at least two people (not relatives) willing to provide written references that comment on the applicant's previous experience of, and suitability for, working with children and young people (previous employer) and permission to clarify information with those referenced any former involvement with athletics the applicant's consent to criminal record checks (CRB) being undertaken if necessary and willingness to provide a self declaration form The application form will state that should the post being applied for require it, short listed candidates would have to demonstrate suitability to be appointed to that post, including the disclosure of any criminal records. A system will exist within UKA and partner organisations that results in any disclosure of criminal records being held and seen only by designated staff at regional / national level and not at local level. Welfare Procedure 15

16 The application form will also state that submission of false information, failure to disclose information or subsequent failure to conform to the Welfare Policy or its Codes of Conduct will result in disciplinary action and may result in dismissal from the sport. (See sample Application Form in Appendices.) UKA, AAAE, WA NIAF and SAL will ensure the application of equal opportunities when it comes to the recruitment and selection of individuals to work with children. However, certain previous convictions and circumstances e.g. previous offences against children will prohibit an individual working with children and young people. All within the sport must ensure that individuals working with children are not included in the POCA, POVA or POCSA (Scotland) lists and not therefore disqualified from working with children and vulnerable adults. The only way to check the list is to obtain a CRB check or a Disclosure Scotland check. It is a criminal offence to engage someone named on the list in a child-care position. UKA will be undertaking disclosure checks on all licensed individuals in a staged process from April 2005 including coaches, officials and team managers. Prior to this time clubs and organisations delivering activities for children are encouraged to obtain a check on any individual engaged in delivering activities to children. Recruitment, selection and induction of volunteers UKA and HC's recognise that this procedure will not be practicable for many volunteer roles in the sport, in particular at club level. However, it does represent best practice and should be followed wherever possible. The items in the self-declaration form must be included. A Volunteer Action Plan is under development that will set out appropriate procedures for the recruitment and management of volunteers. 3. Checks and references All employees in regulated positions (including significant access to children) will be required to undergo a CRB or Disclosure Scotland check. Clubs and individuals will be informed of the procedures for undertaking the checks in due course. A minimum of two written references will be taken up. Where the applicant is to work with children at least one reference will be associated with former work with children/young people. If an applicant has no experience of working with children then they will be given appropriate training. Written references will be followed up and confirmed by telephone. It is recognised that it can be difficult to report concerns about a colleague and support will be provided for doing so. 4. Interviews Where formal interviews are used they will be conducted according to accepted good practice in human resource management. All paid staff will have their qualifications substantiated. For unpaid volunteers the use of a Fit Person Checklist is recommended (see Appendix) in order to assess their appropriateness for the role. 5. Induction, education and training All staff, paid or voluntary, will undergo a formal or informal induction in which: they complete a profile to identify training needs/aspirations they sign up to the Welfare Policy and relevant codes of practice the expectations, roles and responsibilities of the job are clarified (e.g. through a formal or informal work programme or goal-setting exercise) the child protection/welfare procedures in this booklet are explained and training needs established. UKA and HC's will, in partnership, develop and deliver appropriate training. 16 Welfare Procedure

17 All staff whose work involves access to children and vulnerable adults will be expected to be up to date, or to receive training in: child protection awareness and procedures relationships between staff, volunteers and athletes, in particular Home Office guidance on those in positions of trust working with young people (see below). For further guidance please refer to the Athletics Disciplinary procedures first aid, health and safety how to work effectively with children child-centred coaching styles restraint procedures for taking children and young people away (see ASA/NSPCC SafeSportAway booklet, 2001) sources of education and training 6. Monitoring and appraisal All staff will be given the opportunity to receive periodic formal (e.g. through an appraisal) or informal feedback, to identify training needs and set new goals. Concerns about misconduct, poor practice or abuse, however, will be acted on as they arise. Appropriate support will be offered to those who report concerns/incidents or complaints. 7. Complaints procedures Relevant organisations' complaints, grievance and appeals procedures will be used to deal with any formal complaints and/or appeals. Where children or young people are involved, the relevant organisation should ensure that parents/carers are aware of the existence of these procedures. Welfare Procedure 17

19 8. Responding to disclosures, concerns, suspicions and allegations All staff will be encouraged to discuss any welfare or child protection concerns they may have immediately with UKA or HC WO or their designated deputy. This should happen in cases of concern about any aspect of misconduct, whether perpetrated from inside or outside sport, by another child or an adult (including UKA / HC staff), and whether current or relating to someone's past experiences. Wherever suspicions arise, careful, factual notes should be made to record all descriptive information (dates, places, events etc.) Please refer to the sample forms in the Appendix for support paperwork. If anyone reports alleged abuse, either to themselves or to a friend, then follow these steps STEP 1 - LISTEN AND REASSURE DO DO Stay calm - do not rush into inappropriate action DO Reassure the person - tell them you know how difficult it is to confide in someone and tell them that you may have to tell someone else in order help the child DO Listen - to what they say and show them that you take them seriously, recognising the difficulties inherent in interpreting what is said by a child or someone who has a speech disability and/or differences in language DO Avoid involving any other adult - in talking to them DO Keep questions to a minimum - only use questions to clarify what the child is telling you DO Ensure that you understand clearly what has been said - so that you can pass it on to the appropriate agencies DO Consult - with the relevant WO if appropriate (see Figure 1) DON'T DON'T Panic DON'T Make the discloser keep repeating their concerns unnecessarily DON'T Delay - contact the relevant WO immediately (see Figure 1) DON'T Make promises you cannot keep - explain that you may have to tell other people in order to help the child DON'T Take sole responsibility for further action If you are unsure what to do the NSPCC can help you via their 24 hour telephone helpline on Welfare Procedure 19

20 STEP 2 - RECORD Record what the discloser has said/and or your concerns legibly and accurately and give a copy of the report to the appropriate WO. The WO should use the sample incident report form outlined in the Appendix. The report should be factual only and should include: the discloser's and/or child's name, address and date of birth the date and time of the incident(s) and /or the nature of the allegations your observations e.g. describe the behaviour and emotional state of the alleged victim child and/or bruising or other marks or injuries the discloser's/child's account- if it can be given - of what happened details of any witnesses to the incident(s) attach any relevant evidence any action that you took as a result of your concerns e.g. comments made to the discloser/child, whether the parents/carers have been contacted whether the person writing the report is expressing their own concerns or those of others a clear distinction between what is fact, opinion or hearsay your signature and the date of the record Note: Should this incident give rise to a legal case then the written information may be required to be presented in a court of law. Your report may have to be given to the police so ensure that you have a copy for your record.these notes will form the basis of your evidence if you have to be a witness in any proceedings. Do not store / save information on a PC Record only the facts - what you saw and what was said. Do not record opinions or your thoughts / impressions. 20 Welfare Procedure

21 STEP 3 - INVOLVE THE APPROPRIATE PEOPLE Notify the appropriate WO as soon as possible (see Figure 1). They will contact the appropriate organisations at the appropriate level and UKA / HC WO who will investigate whether further action is required. If you are unhappy with the way someone has handled an incident, or if they are the cause of the allegations, you should again contact the UKA / HC WO and make a written record of what you have done and why. UKA / HC will contact the Social Services and/or Police. Remember - speed is of the essence when reporting child abuse or criminal acts - if you are unable to locate the appropriate WO then you must contact the Social Services and/police or directly. Figure 2 Identifying Misconduct, Poor Practice, Abuse and Bullying Remember that anyone can perpetrate misconduct or abuse - an adult on a child, a child on another child or an adult upon another adult. Dealing with breaches of welfare is rarely straightforward and often difficult. Some cases are clear-cut but often decisions about what action to take can be difficult. Possible signs of welfare problems in athletics might include: uncharacteristic changes in someone's behaviour, attitude or commitment e.g. becoming quiet and withdrawn or displaying sudden outbursts of temper trackside gossip unusual secretiveness or withdrawal from normal social contact sudden or unexplained evidence of material wealth unusual eating habits sudden or unexplained changes in performance standard In the case of possible child abuse, additional signs might include: bruises or unusual injuries untypical of the athlete's event or for which the proffered explanation seems inconsistent or unlikely signs of discomfort or pain reluctance to remove tracksuit or to change or shower in view of others increasing dirtiness or unkempt appearance unexplained loss of weight nervousness when approached or touched fear of particular people, especially those with whom a close relationship would normally be expected requests to switch coach or training group without a reasonable explanation inappropriate sexual awareness or awareness unusual for age children who are always alone and unaccompanied and/or prevented from socialising with other children children who appear reluctant to go home after training or events Athletes with disabilities may be at greater risk of abuse because of: communication difficulties sensory disabilities vulnerability due to isolation dependence on the goodwill of carers power differences limited assertiveness limited ability to recognise inappropriate sexual behaviour need for intimate care need for attention, friendship or affection limited sense of danger and/or inability to see warning signs fear of not being believed These examples are not exhaustive: nor are they necessarily proof that misconduct or abuse is actually taking place. Welfare Procedure 21

23 9. Guidance for the designated Welfare Officer (including Child Protection Officers) Your first action upon receiving allegations or reports of misconduct is to report this to the Regional / HC WO who in consultation with the relevant body will decide whether these concern child abuse or some other breach of welfare policy, such as poor practice (see Figure 2). If the concern is about CHILD ABUSE then: make a full report of the allegations or suspicions (see Step 2 above) using an Incident Report Form (see sample in Appendices) notify local Social Services and/or Police as soon as possible, make a record of this and send the report of the allegations to them within 24 hours, keeping a copy. If you have not heard anything back from Social Services within 3 working days, make contact again. note down the name and designation of the social services member of staff or police officer to whom the concerns were passed, together with the time and date of the call, in case any follow up is needed inform UKA and the HC and keep them informed of subsequent local developments (see Figure 1). They will liaise over any decision about the accused in the period prior to the meeting of a Disciplinary Panel maintain confidentiality If the allegation relates to any other breach of Welfare Policy: make a record of the allegations inform the WO at the closest point (see Figure 1).They will decide whether an enquiry should be held and make the necessary arrangements maintain confidentiality UKA /HC 's are committed to working in partnership with clubs and parents/carers in relation to its events and programmes. If there are concerns about the welfare or protection of a young person, the WO or their designated deputy should take advice from the County / National WO or local social services to determine if it is appropriate to talk to parents or carers to help clarify any initial concerns. However, there are circumstances in which a young person might be placed at even greater risk if concerns are shared (e.g. where a parent or carer may be responsible for abuse or not able to respond to the situation appropriately). In these situations or where concerns still exist, the WO or their designated deputy will decide what course of action should be followed. In cases of child protection police and social services should be contacted immediately. Information will be stored in a secure place with access limited to the UKA or HC WO or welfare team, his or her designated deputy and the Chief Executive / Directors only, in line with the Data Protection Act (i.e. that information is accurate, regularly updated, relevant and secure). No information about disclosures will be discussed by HC or UKA staff except with designated individuals. It is equally important that data received by a designated welfare officer, operating within a club, is stored in a secure place with access limited to the welfare officer. The information must be accurate, regularly updated, relevant and secure. 10. Bullying The welfare policy and procedures are designed to prevent bullying of all types. UKA / HC staff will endeavour to provide supportive networks, supervision and an environment were children and young people are encouraged to participate and enjoy their activity. We will: take all signs of bullying very seriously encourage all athletes, especially children, to speak and share their concerns help victims of bullying to speak out and tell the person in charge or someone in authority create an open environment investigate all allegations and take action to ensure the victim is safe speak with the victim and the bully(ies) separately Welfare Procedure 23

24 provide support for the victim and reassure them that they can be trusted and will help, although they cannot promise not to tell others what is said keep records of what is said (what happened, by whom, when) report any concerns to the appropriate authorities (see section above and Figure 1) keep a written record of action taken. Where bullying involves children as perpetrators the WO or their designated deputy will also: talk with the bully(ies), explain the situation, try to get the bully(ies) to understand the consequences of their behaviour and to give an apology to the victim(s) inform the bully/bullies' parents/persons with parental responsibility encourage and support the bully(ies) to change their behaviour be aware that bullies are frequently themselves victims of bullying 11. Substance abuse Regardless of age, the use of drugs, alcohol and tobacco is incompatible with a healthy approach to sporting activity. Therefore, athletics personnel should: not drink alcohol or take drugs prior to taking charge of athletes and never smoke when doing so ensure that social gatherings and organised receptions take place in an environment that is age-appropriate promote fair competition through sound training practices and actively discourage the use of any substance that is perceived to offer short cuts to improved athletic performance educate and inform those in their care of the short and long-term effects of substance taken to enhance performance ensure that those in their care are fully aware of the illegality of proscribed drugs or other banned performance-enhancing substances refrain from seeking sponsorship from the alcohol or tobacco industries Any individual within the sport of athletics found to be guilty of a doping offence will not be accepted or allowed to be involved in the UKA and HC programmes, coaching or other, for the duration of the ban and will have their accreditation, pass and licence removed. UKA reserve the right NOT to qualify (recognise qualification of) or licence / relicence coaches unless they can demonstrate satisfactory reasons as to why they should be licensed, display the qualities and values demanded in the role of a UKA coach and agree to operate within the rules and guidelines set out in the UKA and HC Welfare Policy and Procedures. 12. Psychological stress and burnout Burnout may occur with anyone in athletics, adult or child, volunteer or athlete. It reduces an activity that was once a source of fun and personal satisfaction to one associated with progressive physical and/or psychological stress. It may be manifested as intense fatigue despite commitment, feelings of judgement and exhaustion, irritability and reduced ability to eat sensibly or to sleep. Often, those suffering from burnout do not recognise their own symptoms. Athletics personnel in any role can help to prevent burnout and stress occurring by: being alert to the symptoms warning someone that they are suffering from signs of burnout offering to put this person in touch with professional sources of support intervening if they witness someone else placing undue expectations on an athlete or putting them repeatedly under strain 24 Welfare Procedure

25 13. Expert advice In case of any uncertainty about welfare concerns obtain advice from the UKA / HC Welfare Officer. Where concerns relate to children then additional help is available by telephoning: the local social services department and speaking to the duty worker the NSPCC 24 hour free phone Helpline on the police (who have specially trained child protection teams that will give guidance and support and deal with out-of-office-hours enquiries when social services are not available Club / Local / HC or UKA welfare officer Children 1st (Scotland) Support for the reporter of suspected abuse or misconduct It is recognised that blowing the whistle on a colleague is a difficult and painful process. However, shared ownership of and commitment to the Athletics Welfare Policy means that, on occasion, this will be necessary. All staff will be fully supported and protected if, in good faith (without malicious intent), they report concerns about suspected misconduct or the possibility that someone may be being abused. Support will be given by the UKA / HC Welfare teams or through the relevant HR Departments. 15. Types of investigation Where there is a complaint of abuse there may be three types of investigation: Criminal Child protection (in the case of a child abuse allegation) Internal disciplinary or misconduct (see also UKA / HC Grievance and Disciplinary Procedures) Civil proceedings may also be initiated by the alleged victim of misconduct or abuse, or their family, or by persons wrongly accused. Guidelines for retention of records relating to possible future investigations may be found from local authority sources, however, records should be securely kept for up to three years at least. The results of the police and social services investigation will inform the disciplinary investigation. Investigations by the UKA / HC will be conducted within the rules of Natural Justice and relevant legal statutes. (In relation to child abuse enquiries, further information on the potential actions of social services etc. may be found in guidelines of the appropriate local Area Child Protection Committee or Child Protection Committees in Scotland.) 16. Internal enquiries, suspension and reinstatement (See relevant Grievance and Disciplinary Procedures) The investigating body (see Figure 1) will make an immediate decision about whether any individual accused of misconduct or abuse should be temporarily suspended from athletics, in line with constitutional powers and the relevant Grievance and Disciplinary Procedures, pending further police and social services inquiries and/or enquiries within the sport. This suspension is to facilitate the investigation and is without prejudice to the outcome of the investigation. Welfare Procedure 25

26 Irrespective of the findings of the social services or police inquiries, UKA / HC will assess all individual cases under the appropriate misconduct/disciplinary procedure, to decide whether a member of staff or individual concerned can be reinstated and how this can be sensitively handled with other members of staff or individuals. Where this is in doubt, UKA / HC will reach a decision based on the available information that could suggest, on a balance of probability, it is more likely than not that the allegation is true. The welfare of children and young people will always remain paramount. Any staff or individual found guilty of child abuse, bullying, harassment or serious misconduct, or against whom substantial evidence is available short of a criminal conviction may be dismissed or subject to other disciplinary processes as defined by UKA, and may not be permitted to operate in athletics again in any capacity. UK Athletics will hold a confidential list of offenders who have been barred, restricted or warned and will refer to POCA, POCSA and POVA. All affiliated clubs, counties, territories and other associated bodies may consult this list by written request, at the discretion of UKA and within the terms of the Data Protection Act. Where UKA have established that an individual working in a child care position has harmed a child or placed a child at risk of harm and as a result the individual has been disciplined, removed from the position, has left or contract not renewed then UKA must make a referral to ensure that such a person is added to the POCA, POVA and POCSA lists. UKA will make the referral in association with AAAE, WA, NIAF and SAL 17 Following an allegation UKA / HC's will provide or seek appropriate support for children, parents/carers and members of staff during the aftermath of any disclosure or concern about misconduct in line with the recommendations of the statutory agents e.g. police and social services. This may involve: the use of the CPSU or generic telephone help lines professional counselling groups open meetings where relevant The WO will decide what support should be offered to the alleged perpetrator of the abuse or misconduct, again in line with the recommendations of the statutory agents. In cases where this person is suspended as a result of allegations they should not attempt to communicate with the alleged victim during this time. HC's may have their own support lines for use following the outcome of any welfare investigation and you may wish to speak with your relevant HC WO. Other key contacts in the area of child protection are NSPCC Child Protection Helpline or Childline for confidential advice. 26 Welfare Procedure

27 18. Use of photographic filming equipment at athletics events It is recommended that the guidelines on photography that have been developed by the Amateur Swimming Association (see Appendix) are followed. These were introduced following recognition of increased misuse of sports photography and video recording within the sporting arena. To reduce the risk of abuse to children anyone wishing to use cameras and video recorders should declare their interest in writing. This procedure is not intended to prevent the bona fide use of this equipment for family or coaching purposes but may deter inappropriate use of photographic material. Managers of all athletic events are encouraged to adopt this practice. Welfare Procedure 27

29 19.Trips away from home Implicit within the Athletics Welfare Policy is the duty of care that a Team Manager and/or Club has to its young athletes when travelling to events. UKA and HC deem the guidelines in SafeSportAway (ASA/NSPCC, 2001) appropriate to adopt for such athletics events. As minimum standards, Clubs should travel with a full address list and the permission of parents/carers for each child (noting special dietary, medical or allergy instructions). Emergency contact details should be available at all times. Team Managers should take the necessary action to prevent the misuse of alcohol (from hotel minibars etc.) and access to adult video/film channels. UKA, HCs and Clubs will ensure that all team managers are police checked and will establish, implement and monitor the code of conduct for team managers. Regardless of the ages of athletes on trips away, Team Managers should ensure that teams observe respectful behaviour regarding other hotel residents, local communities and cultural norms. Event organisers and promoters must ensure that the safety of and welfare of all competitors, officials and spectators is paramount. The NSPCC publication Safe Sports Events Guide should be used as a template to be adopted in all events. UKA Health and Safety and Risk Assessment procedures should be followed at all times Welfare Procedure 29

31 20. Sexual activity Within sport, as within other activities, sexual relationships do occur. All sports organisations should therefore be aware of the law relating to sexual behaviour and should develop and promote guidelines relating to sexual activity. These guidelines should address sexual activity both between children and young people and between adults and young people. Sexual activity between children/young people (U16) involved in sport is prohibited during team events, in sports facilities or social activities organised by the club/organisation. Inappropriate or criminal sexual behaviour committed by a young person may lead to disciplinary action in accordance with the sports governing body guidance. Sexual interactions between adults and young people (under 18) involved in sport raise serious issues given the power imbalance inherent in the relationship. Where a young person is of the age of consent the power of the adult over that young person may influence their ability to genuinely consent to sexual activity. A coach or other adult in a position of authority may have significant power or influence over a young person's career. It is for these reasons that sexual activity between adults and young people (under 18 years) involved in the same sport should be prohibited when the adult is in a position of trust or authority (coach, trainer, official). Sexual activity between adults and children under the age of 16 (17 in Northern Ireland) is a criminal act and immediate action must be taken to report it. Inappropriate sexual behaviour (with a person under 18 years) committed by an adult should lead to suspension and disciplinary action in accordance with the sports governing body guidance. NB The age of consent in Northern Ireland for sexual intercourse is 17 years for heterosexual and 18 years for homosexual intercourse. Welfare Procedure 31

33 21. Monitoring the policy It is the responsibility of UKA and the HCs to monitor the Athletics Welfare Policy and Procedures. This will be done by: keeping records of cases brought and their outcomes consulting with athletics clubs and WOs on a regular basis about the ease of implementation, the effects of the policy and ideas for improvements taking legal advice to ensure that the policy and procedures conform to statutory guidance establishing an expert panel to provide guidance on policy implementation. Cases will be reviewed to ensure that necessary amendments can be made to procedures in the event of lessons learned Welfare Procedure 33

35 CODES OF CONDUCT The Responsible Athletics Club Code of Conduct As a responsible club you will: ensure that all staff operating within the club environment hold the appropriate qualifications. adopt national policies and codes of good practice in relation to athlete welfare ensure that club officers and volunteers always act responsibly and set an example to younger members appoint a designated Welfare Officer, who is provided with appropriate training and periodic updating, to act as a first port of call in cases of concern about athlete welfare liaise appropriately with other key persons, including parents/persons with parental responsibility, officials, coaches and sport scientists, to ensure that good practice is followed in maintaining athletes' welfare carry out their duty of care within relevant legislation and government guidance operate within the guidelines of the clubs:future manual Share your Code of Conduct with the Club or athlete involved Welfare Procedure 35

36 The responsible Athletics Coach Code of Conduct As a responsible coach you will: respect the rights, dignity and worth of every athlete and treat everyone equally, regardless of background or ability place the welfare and safety of the athlete above the development of performance encourage and guide athletes to accept and take responsibility for their own behaviour and performance be appropriately qualified and update your licence and education as and when required by UK Athletics ensure that the activities you guide or advocate are appropriate for the age, maturity, experience and ability of the individual athlete at the outset, clarify with athletes (and where appropriate their parents or carers) exactly what is expected of them and what athletes are entitled to expect from you never try to recruit, either overtly or covertly, athletes who are already receiving coaching. If approached by an athlete receiving coaching, refer immediately to the coach currently providing coaching support co-operate fully with other colleagues (e.g. other coaches, officials, team managers, sport scientists, doctors, physiotherapists, governing body staff) in the best interests of the athlete consistently promote positive aspects of the sport (e.g. fair play) and never condone rule violations or the use of prohibited or age-inappropriate substances consistently display high standards of behaviour and appearance In addition, as a responsible athletics coach you must: develop appropriate working relationships with athletes (especially under 18s), based on mutual trust and respect. In particular, a coach will not exert undue influence to obtain personal benefit or reward; strictly maintain a clear boundary between friendship and intimacy with athletes and not conduct inappropriate relationships with athletes. Relationships with athletes can cause significant problems for other team members and can fracture teams, raising concerns of favouritism, or even of victimisation, should the relationship later end. However, due to the very special relationship between coaches and athletes: You must not allow an intimate personal relationship to develop between yourself and any athlete under the age of 18. Any violation of this could result in a coach licence being withdrawn or restrictions being imposed on it under condition 6 below; it is also strongly recommended that you do not allow intimate personal relationships to develop between yourself and athletes (coached or supervised by you) who are aged 18 and over. In addition to the above Code of Conduct coaches should follow the following guidelines to ensure that they work within the best coaching practice. Coaches should: never do something for an athlete that they can do for themselves avoid critical language or actions, such as sarcasm, that undermine an athlete's self-esteem not spend time alone with a young athlete unless clearly in view of others avoid taking a young athlete alone in your car never invite a young athlete alone to your home never share a bedroom with a child always explain why and ask for consent before touching an athlete work in same-sex pairs when supervising changing areas ensure that parents/carers know about and have approved in advance if taking a young athlete away from the usual training venue respect the right of young athletes to an independent life outside athletics challenge inappropriate behaviour or language by others report any accidental injury, distress or misunderstanding or misinterpretation. A brief written report of such incidents should be submitted to the WO as soon as possible, and parents/carers notified. (See sample Incident Report Form in Appendices) report any suspected misconduct by other coaches or athletics personnel (see Figure 1) Share your Code of Conduct with the Club or athlete involved 36 Welfare Procedure

37 The responsible athletics Technical Official Code of Conduct As a responsible athletics technical official you will: respect the rights, dignity and worth of every athlete and treat everyone equally, regardless of background or ability place the welfare and safety of the athlete above the development of performance encourage and guide athletes to accept and take responsibility for their own behaviour and performance be appropriately qualified and update your licence and education as and when required by UK Athletics ensure that the activities you guide or advocate are appropriate for the age, maturity, experience and ability of the individual athlete at the outset, clarify with athletes (and where appropriate their parents or carers) exactly what is expected of them and what athletes are entitled to expect from you co-operate with other officials, competition organisers, coaches, team managers etc. in the provision of fair and equitable conditions for the conduct of Athletic events under the relevant rules of competition, thereby offering all participants every opportunity to achieve their own personal goals and aspirations act in a decisive, but friendly, manner in their interaction with other officials, competitors, coaches and spectators, respecting the rights of others consistently promote positive aspects of the sport (e.g. fair play) and never condone rule violations or the use of prohibited or age-inappropriate substances consistently display high standards of behaviour and appearance In addition, as a responsible athletics technical official you must: develop appropriate working relationships with athletes (especially under 18s), based on mutual trust and respect. In particular, a coach will not exert undue influence to obtain personal benefit or reward; strictly maintain a clear boundary between friendship and intimacy with athletes and not conduct inappropriate relationships with athletes. Relationships with athletes can cause significant problems for other team members and can fracture teams, raising concerns of favouritism, or even of victimisation, should the relationship later end. You must not allow an intimate personal relationship to develop with any athlete under the age of 18. Any violation of this could result in an official licence being withdrawn or restrictions being imposed on it it is also strongly recommended that you do not allow intimate personal relationships to develop with athletes (judged by you) who are aged 18 and over. Welfare Guidelines: In addition to the above Code of Conduct you should follow the guidelines below to ensure that you work within the best practice. Officials should: never do something for an athlete that they can do for themselves avoid critical language or actions, such as sarcasm, that undermine an athlete's self-esteem not spend time alone with a young athlete unless clearly in view of others avoid taking a young athlete alone in your car never invite a young athlete alone to your home never share a bedroom with a child always explain why and ask for consent before touching an athlete work in same-sex pairs when supervising changing areas Share your Code of Conduct with the Club or athlete involved Welfare Procedure 37