Introduction

Everyone who participates on any RSM Cricket course is entitled to do so in an enjoyable and safe environment. RSM Cricket have a moral and legal obligation to ensure that, when given responsibility for young people, coaches and volunteers provide them with the highest possible standard of care.

RSM Cricket is committed to devising and implementing policies so that everyone in sport accepts their responsibilities to safeguard children from harm and abuse. This means to follow procedures to protect children and report any concerns about their welfare to appropriate authorities.

The aim of the policy is to promote good practice, providing children and young people with appropriate safety/protection whilst in the care of RSM Cricket and to allow staff and volunteers to make informed and confident responses to specific child protection issues.

A child/young person is defined as a person under the age of 18 (Children's Act 1989.

Policy Statement

RSM Cricket is committed to the following:

1. The welfare of the child is paramount.
2. All children, whatever their age, culture, ability, gender, language, racial origin, religious belief and/or sexual identity should be able to participate in cricket in a fun and safe environment.
3. Taking all reasonable steps to protect children from harm, discrimination and degrading treatment and to respect their rights, wishes and feelings.
4. All suspicions and allegations of poor practice or abuse will be taken seriously and responded to swiftly and appropriately.
5. All RSM Cricket employees who work with children will be recruited with regard to their suitability for that responsibility, and will be provided with guidance and/or training in good practice and child protection procedures.
6. Working in partnership with parents and children is essential for the protection of children.
7. Monitor and review the policy and procedures.

The implementation of procedures should be regularly monitored and reviewed. The welfare officer should regularly report progress, challenges, difficulties, achievements gaps and areas where changes are required to the management committee. The policy should be reviewed every 3 years or whenever there is a major change in the organisation or in relevant legislation.