AWA Coaching | Youth Athletics Training in Sheffield

1. Policy Statement

AWA Coaching is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and young people. We recognize that:

The welfare of the child is paramount
All children, regardless of background, have the right to be safe from abuse
All suspicions and allegations of abuse will be taken seriously
Working in partnership with children, parents, and agencies is essential

2. Our Commitment

Safe Recruitment

✓Enhanced DBS checks for all staff
✓Reference verification
✓Safeguarding training (minimum annual)
✓Clear code of conduct

Safe Environment

✓Appropriate supervision ratios
✓Visible, open spaces
✓Two-adult rule where possible
✓Regular risk assessments

Clear Procedures

✓Reporting mechanisms
✓Investigation protocols
✓Record keeping
✓Information sharing

Ongoing Training

✓Annual safeguarding updates
✓Awareness of current issues
✓Best practice guidance
✓Multi-agency working

3. Recognizing Abuse

Physical Abuse

Definition: Causing physical harm including hitting, shaking, throwing, poisoning, burning, or drowning

Signs: Unexplained injuries, fear of physical contact, wearing inappropriate clothing to hide injuries

Emotional Abuse

Definition: Persistent emotional maltreatment causing severe adverse effects on development

Signs: Low self-esteem, withdrawn behavior, attention-seeking, difficulty forming relationships

Sexual Abuse

Definition: Forcing or enticing a child to take part in sexual activities

Signs: Inappropriate sexual knowledge, sexualized behavior, fear of specific people or places

Neglect

Definition: Persistent failure to meet basic physical and/or psychological needs

Signs: Poor hygiene, inadequate clothing, untreated medical conditions, frequent absences

4. Reporting Procedure

Recognize

Notice signs of abuse or concerning behavior. Trust your instincts.

Respond

Listen carefully if a child discloses. Don't promise confidentiality. Reassure them they've done the right thing.

Report

Contact the Safeguarding Lead immediately (same day). In emergencies, call 999.

Record

Write down what was said/observed as soon as possible. Include dates, times, and exact words used.

Refer

Safeguarding Lead will refer to Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) or Children's Social Care as appropriate.

5. Staff Code of Conduct

All staff must:

✓Treat all children with respect and dignity

✓Maintain professional boundaries

✓Ensure actions cannot be misinterpreted

✓Report concerns immediately

✓Keep detailed records

✓Attend safeguarding training annually

Staff must never:

✗Spend time alone with a child unnecessarily

✗Contact children via personal social media

✗Give gifts or favors to individual children

✗Make sexually suggestive comments

✗Engage in rough physical games

✗Do things of a personal nature children can do themselves

6. Photography & Social Media

Consent Required: Written parental consent is required for all photography/video of children under 18.

Prohibited Areas: No photography in changing rooms, bathrooms, or during one-to-one coaching without additional safeguards.

Identification: Children without photography consent will be clearly identified to staff with a 🚫📷 indicator.

Social Media: Staff must not accept friend requests from current athletes. Official AWA social media accounts only.

7. Useful Contacts

AWA Safeguarding Lead

Sarah Thompson

safeguarding@awasportscoaching.com

07XXX XXXXXX

NSPCC Helpline

Free, confidential advice

0808 800 5000

help@nspcc.org.uk

Childline

For children and young people

0800 1111

www.childline.org.uk

Local Social Services

24/7 emergency line

020 XXXX XXXX

children@localauthority.gov.uk

Safeguarding Policy

Report a Concern