SAFEGUARDING POLICY

Introduction: Gymlab recognises that all children and young people have a right to protection and that the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults is paramount. 

Gymlab acknowledges its duty of care to safeguard and promote the health, safety and welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults by ensuring safeguarding practice reflects and complies with best practice and British Gymnastics (BG) policies (which are updated regularly based on changes to legislation). 

Gymlab commits to: 

• Adopting the British Gymnastics health, safety and welfare guidelines https://www.british-gymnastics.org/safeguarding-and-compliance-policies 

• Ensuring staff and volunteers understand their roles and responsibilities in respect of safeguarding and are provided with appropriate learning opportunities to recognise, identify and respond to signs of abuse, neglect and other safeguarding concerns relating to children and young people. 

• Appointing a Designated Safeguarding Lead to whom grievances or concerns can be made confidentially in person via welfare@gymlab.fit

• Encouraging an open environment where gymnasts, staff, volunteers and parents can raise any concerns without fear of negative repercussions. 

• Ensuring that any grievances or concerns are dealt with promptly and in accordance with the Gymlab Complaints Procedure

• Ensuring appropriate action is taken in the event of incidents/concerns of abuse and support will be provided to the individual/s who raise or disclose the concern. 
Gymlab Designated Safeguarding Lead: Massimo Petracca
For more information, refer to NSPCC: https://www.nspcc.org.uk/

• Preventing the employment/deployment of unsuitable individuals by screening, checking references and obtaining criminal record disclosure as appropriate.

• Having a zero-tolerance policy of poor practice, bullying or any other potential abuse form. For more information, refer to Gymlab Anti-Bullying Policy

• Recognising that certain children are more vulnerable and that all children regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, ability or disability, religion or beliefs, sexual orientation, parental status or socio/economic background have a right to be protected from abuse. 

• Ensuring that the participants and parents know the purposes of videoing, filming or photography during training or events. 

• Ensuring that all coaches, members and parents know the Club Rules. For more information, refer to Gymlab Rules