Gwent Golf Union – Child Protection Policy Statement
The Gwent Golf Union is committed to the following:
• That the safety and welfare of children should always be of paramount importance, whatever the circumstances.
• That everyone with a role in working with or supervising children has a responsibility to safeguard and promote a child's welfare, protecting them from harm and to provide a safe environment in which they can participate.
• That all suspicions and allegations of poor practice or abuse will be taken seriously and responded to swiftly and appropriately.
• That all officers/members/volunteers/PGA Professionals who work with children will be recruited with regard to their suitability for that responsibility and that they will be provided with appropriate guidance and training to assist them in their role in relation to child protection.
• That all involved in junior golf should be aware of their role and responsibility with regard to child protection and this should be communicated throughout the union.
• That all sections of the union will similarly accept a duty of care for the welfare of children in line with the policy statement and incorporate it into their constitutions.
PRINCIPLES:
The following principles underpin the Gwent Golf Union Child Protection Policy Statement:
• All children and young people within golf, regardless of age, gender, ability, disability, race, religious belief or sexual orientation have the right to be protected.
• All suspicions and allegations will be taken seriously and responded to swiftly and appropriately.
• All children/young people have the right to be safe and to be treated with dignity and respect.
• Adults - officers, volunteers, PGA professionals, coaches, referees and members will be supported to understand their role and responsibility with regard to the duty of care and protection of children and young people.
• Individuals will receive support through education and training to be aware of and understand best practice and how to manage any welfare or child protection issues that may come to light.
• Individuals will receive access to advice through their governing body, to understand best practice and how to manage welfare or child protection issues that may come to light.
This policy is underpinned by government guidance and current legislation including the Children Act 1989 which states that anyone who is involved in the care of children should "Do what is reasonable in the circumstances for the purpose of safeguarding or promoting the child's welfare".