Ralston Golf Club
Child Protection
David McLucas & Lily Kennedy are the Child Protection Officers for Ralston Golf Club.
In line with Child & Adult Protection Legislation implemented by the Scottish Executive David McLucas has been appointed as the clubs Child & Adult Protection Officer, and as such has now been registered with the Scottish Golf Union. Lily Kennedy the Ladies Secretary will assist him.
Everyone has a duty of care towards children to help to protect them from abuse. Ralston Golf Club now has a Child & Adult Protection Policy and Procedure in place. It is hoped that this policy and procedure will help create a safe environment in golf for all.
This policy and procedure refers to children as the primary focus throughout. However, the same principles apply and are intended to be actioned in respect of vulnerable adults. The policy and procedure is developed for the protection of the child first, but also importantly the adult working with children through the promotion of awareness and good practice.
As part of the full policy & procedure any adult working whether it be officially or on a voluntary basis with children require to be cleared for such through Disclosure Scotland. As CPO David McLucas is the clubs authorised signatory for this process via the Scottish Golf Union.
The full policy and procedure is held within the club office and “Quick Guideline” posters have now been placed around the Clubhouse emphasising Good Practices, How to react if a situation arises and giving contact details should you suspect or receive allegations.
Quick Guidelines
The Protection of Children and Young People
The Protection of Children (Scotland) Act 2003 became law on the 12 th April 2005. All organisations that work with children, including volunteer organisations, will commit an offence and be liable for prosecution if they do not comply with this legislation. Ralston Golf Club now has a Policy and Procedure to Protect Children and Young Adults in Golf (full document available within the Club Office) and David McLucas has been appointed as the Club Child Protection Officer. It is the responsibility of all associated with Ralston Golf Club to help prevent all types of abuse of children and young people. Ralston Golf Club wishes to safeguard the welfare of all employees and volunteers involved with Ralston Golf Club activities.
Promoting Good Practices:
Always :
- set an example of good behaviour and avoid drinking and use of foul language when in contact with children .
- make golf fun and encourage good etiquette and correct sporting behaviour .
- treat all children equally, putting their welfare before winning or achieving goals .
- give constructive feedback .
- challenge unacceptable behaviour, language and bullying .
- report any allegations or suspicions of abuse .
Avoid :
- favouring certain children over others.
- spending excessive amounts of time alone with a child, e.g. in a car, mini-bus, walking home, and especially in changing rooms .
- unnecessary physical contact, including minimum contact during coaching .
- sharing rooms with children on overnight trips .
Never :
- engage in rough, physical or sexually provocative games.
- make sexually suggestive comments or gestures to a child.
- form intimate emotional or physical relationships with children.
- reduce a child to tears as a form of control.
- allow allegations made by a child to go unrecorded or not acted upon.
How to react if a situation arises :
If a child tells you about abuse :
- Stay calm and listen to the child without interrupting – they will often be frightened and feeling very vulnerable.
- Reassure them that they were right to tell you, and they are not to blame.
- Do not make promises or guarantee confidentiality – let them know that you MUST inform someone in authority.
- Take what the child says seriously, and DO NOT INVESTIGATE.
- Report immediately to the Club Child and Adult Protection Officer, or if unavailable, the police or social work department.
- Record, sign and date the information and pass immediately to the Club Child and Adult Protection Officer.
- If the child is at immediate risk seek advice from the police or social work department.
If you suspect abuse or receive an allegation about any adult :
- Remember that the welfare of the child is paramount.
- Tell the Club Child and Adult Protection Officer immediately, or if unavailable, the police or social work department.
- Record, sign and date the information and pass immediately to the Club Child and Adult Protection Officer.
- Try to ensure that no-one is placed in a position that may cause further risk or concern.
It is not your duty to investigate.
It is your duty to report concerns.
Always seek advice if you are unsure.
CONTACTS:
Ralston Golf Club
Child and Young Adult Protection Officer
David McLucas
Assisted by Mrs L Kennedy, Ladies Secretary
0141 882 1349
Scottish Golf Union
Child and Adult Protection Officer
01382 549500 ext. 515