Child Protection Policy

Swimming Buddies is committed to ensuring that any child who attends is treated with care and respect and that all activities are carried out in a safe environment. We have a duty of care and follow the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Children which states ‘Children have the right to be protected from all forms of violence, they must be kept safe from harm and they must be given proper care by those looking after them’.

To adhere to this, we will ensure:
• A register of attendance will be taken at each centre, at each session.
• Children shall never be left unattended on the premises at any time.
• All Swimming Buddies teachers and poolside should be Access NI checked and have attended a child protection course.

If you have any concerns about any child please speak to a coach in person or contact Sarah Jane 
at info@swimmingbuddies.co.uk

​

If you do not feel comfortable doing this, please contact the NSPCC on 0808 800 5000 or by email at 
help@nspcc.org.uk

​

We also have a separate Whistleblowing Policy which you can follow or contact NSPCC on their Whistleblowing Advice Line on 0800 0280 285 or email help@nspcc.org.uk

​

We hope that all those involved with Swimming Buddies will feel able to voice concerns openly under this policy. Completely anonymous disclosures are difficult to investigate. If you want to raise your concern confidentially, we will make every effort to keep your identity secret and only reveal it where necessary to those involved in investigating your concern. We are committed to providing ongoing support for those reporting concerns to encourage transparency and safeguarding against victimisation and discrimination.

• No child shall be put in a dangerous, uncomfortable or difficult situation which could put him/her at risk. All children shall be treated equally.
• Complaints are welcome and will be taken seriously no matter whom the source is or who the complaint is against. All children must be listened to.
• Any complaint must be listened to as a matter of urgency and will be recorded and followed up.
• Swimming Buddies must be made aware of any health issues which may affect a child.
• There should be at least one trained lifesaver to assist in an injury at any centre.
• A full first aid kit must be kept on site.
• No alcohol or drugs can be on the premises at any time.
• A signed registration form for each child must be completed. This will indicate emergency contact details, permission for photography and any health & safety issues.
• All information gathered on a child is protected by the Data Protection Act 1998.
• Swimming ratios will be upheld at all times within classes.
• Changing rooms can be shared by all children as we operate a village changing environment, private cubicles and privacy screens are also available. Showers can be used. Please note: Bathing suits are required at all times.
 

Designated Child Safety Officer is Joel Lawson 07814755709
Emergency Contact is Sarah Jane Reynolds 07746724160
NSPCC on 0808 800 5000 or by email at help@nspcc.org.uk