Child Protection
My name is Sarah Palmer and I have recently taken up the role of Welfare Officer at Sutton Swimming Club. I hope that most children know me by sight. My children attend training sessions in the large pool. I also help out on the door during both training sessions and assist at galas timekeeping and anything else that may assist the organisers/ coaches/swimmers.
I come from a background of child protection and it is important for all children to feel safe and secure when they attend training sessions and any events which the club participates in. It is not mine or anyone else’s responsibility to decide whether a child is being abused, but, it is our responsibility to act on any concerns and to ensure they are raised and passed on accordingly. Child welfare is a team effort.
ASA CHILD PROTECTION IN SWIMMING-PROCEDURES AND GUIDELINES
These procedures and guidelines were produced by the ASA Child Protection Working Party in conjunction with the NSPCC.
The ASA believes that the welfare of children and young people is everyone's responsibility, particularly when it comes to protecting children from abuse. Everyone in swimming - administrator, club official, coach, parent, friend, children themselves, everyone - can help. It is not just the role of the Welfare Officer to ensure that children are safe and protected. A child should feel they can approach any adult whom they feel comfortable with and able to speak to about anything which may be bothering them.
A copy of the Procedures and Guidlines can be obtained from the ASA's web-site and as Welfare Officer I can supply you with hard copies should you require them - please ask.
As Welfare Officer I also have a range of leaflets giving information about safeguarding and protecting children in sport:
A Guide for Sports Clubs/Organisations
A Guide for Sports Coaches & Leaders
Please ask me if you would like a copy or click on the links above. Please note that Adobe Acrobat will be required to view these documents online.
Child Protection is also an agenda item at the monthly committee meetings for the swimming club.
There are a number of help lines available to children and young people.
Swimline – 0808 100 4001
A service provided for anyone involved in swimming who believes that the welfare of a child is at risk – neglect, abuse, bullying or fear of someone, or anything that is worrying you and you don’t know who to discuss it with.
Kidscape – 0207 730 330
A voluntary organisation committed to help child bullying
NSPCC Child Protection Helpline – 0800 800 5000
24 Hour helpline and calls are free of charge
Textphone on 0800 056 0566
Childline – 0800 1111
Child Protection in Sport Unit – 0116 234 7278