Safeguarding Children
Safeguarding and Protecting our Youngsters
Every Child Matters
Netball is a team sport. It should be fun, safe and child-friendly. England Netball is committed to creating and maintaining a safe and positive environment for all young people to play netball. In line with this, we have recently launched a new approach to ensuring that every child can take part in netball safely.
New Policy
England Netball Safeguarding and Protecting Young People in Netball
Policy and Procedures will apply to all individuals involved – paid or in a voluntary capacity. Everyone has a responsibility.
We have agreed a new policy that will apply across England, The principles of which are as follows:
1. Anyone under the age of 18 will be considered a child or young person
in relation to Safeguarding and Protecting Young People in Netball Policy and Procedures.
2. The safety and welfare of young people is paramount.
3. All young people, regardless of age, ability, gender, race, religion, ethnic origin, social status or sexual orientation, have the right to be protected from abuse.
4. The rights, dignity and worth of all young people should always be respected.
5. All allegations will be taken seriously and responded to quickly in line with England Netball Policy and Procedures.
6. It is the responsibility of safeguarding and child protection experts to determine whether or not abuse has taken place but it is everyone’s responsibility in netball to act appropriately and report concerns.
7. England Netball recognises the role and responsibilities of the statutory agencies safeguarding children and young people and is committed to complying with the procedures of the Local Safeguarding Children Boards.
8. Working in partnership with parents and carers is essential for the safeguarding and protection of young people.
9. England Netball Safeguarding and Protecting Young People in Netball Policy and Procedures arc (in time) mandatory and all regions and affiliated dubs must (over time) appoint a Welfare Officer to ensure that appropriate procedures are followed.