Safeguarding Policy

Belvoir Riding Club

 

Introduction

Belvoir Riding Club fully accepts its legal and moral obligation under the Children Acts (1989 and 2004) to provide a duty of care to protect all children and safeguard their welfare, irrespective of age, ability or disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation, and socio-economic background.

We adopt the BHS Safeguarding Children and Young People Policy and the Safeguarding Adults Policy and Procedures.

1. Purpose

This policy outlines Belvoir Riding Club’s commitment to safeguarding children, young people, and adults at risk. It ensures that all members, staff, and volunteers understand their responsibilities in creating a safe environment.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all members, volunteers, coaches, staff, and visitors involved in any activity organized by Belvoir Riding Club.

3. Responsibilities

Belvoir Riding Club will:

  • Appoint a Centre Safeguarding Officer (CSO) responsible for safeguarding matters.
  • Ensure all staff, volunteers, and members understand their safeguarding responsibilities.
  • Provide safeguarding training and refresher courses every three years.
  • Maintain contact details for local children’s social care and police services.
  • Ensure all individuals working with children have up-to-date DBS checks.

 

4. Club Safeguarding Officer

Name: Laura Morgan

Email: belvoirridingclub@gmail.com

5. Procedures for Reporting Concerns

• Concerns should be reported to the Club Safeguarding Officer immediately.

• In cases of immediate danger, contact emergency services (999).

• Reports can also be made to:

  – BHS Safeguarding Team: safeguarding@bhs.org.uk

  – NSPCC Helpline: 0808 800 5000

  – Childline: 0800 1111

  – Ann Craft Trust: ann-craft-trust@nottingham.ac.uk

Serious concerns can be reported to child protection units within local police forces, children’s social care services or local safeguarding children’s board.

Reporting a Concern flowchart
pastedGraphic.png

6. Record Keeping and information sharing

 

All safeguarding concerns must be documented clearly and factually, including:

  • Description of the concern
  • Any visible injuries or signs
  • Witnesses
  • Dates, times, and actions taken
  • Confidentiality must be maintained, and records securely stored.
  • Information will be shared on a need-to-know basis with relevant agencies to protect individuals and promote welfare. This includes schools, social care, and law enforcement when necessary.

 

 

7. Training Requirements

 

• All staff and volunteers must complete safeguarding training.

• Training includes:

  – Safeguarding for Equestrians

  – Designated Safeguarding Officer Training

  – E-Safety and Anti-Bullying Workshops

 

8. Code of Conduct

• Treat all individuals with respect.

• Maintain professional boundaries.

• Communicate appropriately, especially with under-18s.

9. Review and communication 

This policy will be:

  • Available on the club’s website and noticeboard.
  • Shared with all staff, volunteers, junior members, and their parents/guardians.
  • Reviewed every three years or following significant changes in legislation or guidance.

Approved by:

Laura Morgan

Club Safeguarding Officer

Belvoir Riding Club