~~Bluebell Knockmitten United Fc

 

CHILD SAFEGUARDING POLICY

 

 

FEBRUARY 2020

 

 

INTRODUCTION

Bluebell knockmitten United fc is committed to safeguarding the children in our care and to providing a safe environment in which they can play, learn, develop, and play Matches

Bluebell knockmitten United fc is committed to child centred practice in all our work with children and full compliance with Children First Act 2015.

In the Republic of Ireland, as per Children’s First: National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children 2017, a ‘child’ means a person under the age of 18 years, who is not or has not been married.

It is the responsibility of all services to ensure that service users are treated with respect and dignity, have their welfare promoted and receive support in an environment in which every effort is made to promote welfare and to prevent abuse and bullying.

This policy will be reviewed every two years or in line with changing legislation and best practice guidance on the welfare of children and young people.

Affiliated Member of the Club shall mean all National Bodies, Provincial Associations, leagues, clubs, and AGM Members who have affiliated directly to the FAI or to their respective governing body.
 • Board shall mean the Board of Management/Committee of the Club.
• Children, Child, or Young Person shall mean a person under the age of 18 other than a person who is or has been married.
 • Children First Act (2015) shall mean the Act for the purposes of making further and better provision for the care and protection of Children and for those purposes to require that preparation, by certain providers of services to Children, of Child Safeguarding Statements; to require certain persons to make reports to the Child and Family Agency in respect of Children in certain circumstances; to require certain persons to assist the Child and Family Agency in certain circumstances.
 • Children First: National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children 2017 shall mean the guidance published by the Department of Children and Youth Affairs in 2017 which includes information on the statutory obligations for those individuals and Organisations under the Act. It also sets out the best practice procedures that should be in place for all Organisations providing services to Children
. • Child Risk Assessment shall mean a Risk Assessment which is carried out to identify whether a Child could be harmed whilst using the service.
 • Child Safeguarding Statement shall mean a statement that outlines the policies and procedures which are in place to manage the risks that have been identified through the Risk Assessment.
• Clubs Children’s Officer shall mean the person who the Child welfare day to day functions are delegated to. Their remit shall be a key component of the Safeguarding Statement and they shall be the Relevant Person for the Child Safeguarding Statement.
• Code of Ethics and Good Practice for Children’s Sport shall mean the Code which was developed by the Irish Sports Council (Sport Ireland) and the Sports Council for Northern Ireland. The Code has been adopted and implemented by governing bodies of sports, clubs, local sports partnerships, and community/voluntary groups.
 • Designated Liaison Person shall mean the person who is responsible for ensuring that reporting procedures within the Club are followed so that Child welfare and protection concerns are referred promptly to Statutory Authorities and will also liaise with outside agencies. Additionally, they will be a resource person to any employee, Coach or volunteer who has Child protection concerns.
 • Deputy Designated Liaison Person shall mean the person who carries out the duties of the Designated Liaison Person when the Designated Liaison Person is unavailable.
• Harm shall mean, as defined in the Children First Act 2015, in relation to a Child– • (a) assault, ill-treatment or neglect of the Child in a manner that seriously affects, or is likely to seriously affect the Child's health, development or welfare, or,
 • (b) sexual abuse of the Child. whether caused by a single act, omission or circumstance or a series or combination of acts, omissions or circumstances or otherwise.”
• Liaison Person shall mean the registered person(s) with The National Vetting Bureau for the purposes of Garda Vetting
. • Mandated Persons shall mean, as set out in the Children’s First Act 2015, persons who have contact with Children and/or families and who, because of their qualifications, training and/or employment role, are in a key position to help protect Children from harm.
 • Participants shall mean a Player, Official, Manager, Match Official, Match Agent, Intermediary and all such persons who are from time to time participating in any activity sanctioned by The Club or by any Affiliated Member.
 • Relevant Person- shall mean the person who is appointed as the Children’s Officer within National Bodies, Provincial Associations, Leagues, Clubs, to be the first point of contact in respect of an Organisation’s Child Safeguarding Statement.
• Relevant Service- shall mean Organisations that have statutory responsibilities under the Children First Act 2015, any work or activity which consists of the provision of educational, research, training, cultural, recreational, leisure, social or physical activities to Children.
 • Statutory Authorities shall mean those state bodies which promote the welfare and protection of Children and Vulnerable Persons and have a legal responsibility for the investigation and/or validation of suspected abuse, and these include but are not limited to An Garda Síochána, the Health Service Executive and the Child and Family Agency (Tulsa).
• The Policy shall mean this Bluebell Knockmitten United Fc Child Welfare and Safeguarding Policy
 
CHILD PROTECTION AND WELFARE POLICY

We recognise the right of children to be protected from harm, abuse, neglect, and unequal treatment. Each child will be treated with respect, listened to, and have their views taken into consideration in matters that affect them.

Management, staff, volunteers and work experience students in this service recognise that the welfare of children is paramount and the Bluebell knockmitten United fc is committed at all time to ensuring their safety and welfare by upholding children’s rights specifically and human rights generally.
We will endeavour to safeguard children and young people by:

• Having procedures to recognise, respond to and report concerns about children’s protection and welfare
• Having a safe recruitment procedure for staff and volunteers
• Having procedures for managing/supervising coaches, work experience students and volunteers
• Providing supervision, support and training for coaches and volunteers.
• Ensuring the Garda Vetting process for all coaches and volunteers is managed. 
• Having a procedure to respond to accidents and incidents
• Having a procedure to respond to complaints
• Having procedures to respond to allegations of abuse and neglect against staff members.
• Having an anti bullying attitude and procedures
• Appoint both a Designated Liaison Person for dealing with child protection concerns and a Deputy
• Provide induction training on the Child Protection Act 2015 and Welfare Policy to all coaches, volunteers, work experience students and members of the board of management
• Ensure that staff attend Child Safeguarding Training as appropriate
• Work and cooperate with the relevant statutory agencies as required.

Bluebell knockmitten United fc’s Child Safeguarding Policy applies to all staff, coaches and volunteers working within and on behalf of the organisation. 

 

 

 

CHILD SAFEGUARDING STATEMENT

1. Name of service being provided: Football Coaching
2. Nature of service and principles to safeguard children from harm Bluebell Knockmitten United Fc is the provider of  football Coaching and Mentoring to all kids and youths, we provide training in all aspects and support for Match Days as well as Management and Coaching. as arts and crafts groups, activity groups, events, amongst others.
3. Risk Assessment

 Risk Identified Procedure in place to manage identified risk
1 Risk of harm including assault, ill treatment, or neglect of a child in a manner that seriously affects or is likely to seriously affect the child’s health, development or welfare or sexual abuse of a child Child Welfare and Safeguarding policy Concern-Complaint policy Safeguarding training, Specific Guidance
2 Risk of harm of abuse when hosting an activity and or an away trip Child Welfare and Safeguarding policy Concern-Complaint policy Safeguarding training, Specific guidance
3 Risk of harm of online abuse through social media Child Welfare and Safeguarding policy Social Media policy, Specific guidance, rules, or handbooks in place for various events
4 Bullying of a child Child Welfare and Safeguarding policy Concern-Complaint policy, Social Media policy, Specific guidance, rules, or handbooks in place for various events

4. Procedures
Our child Safeguarding Statement has been developed in line with requirements under the Children First Act 2015, Children First: National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children 2017, and Tusla’s Child Safeguarding: A Guide for Policy, Procedure and Practice.   
• Procedure for the management of allegations of abuse or misconduct against workers/volunteers of a child availing of our service.
• Procedure for the safe recruitment and selection of workers and volunteers to work with children.
• Procedure for provision of and access to child safeguarding training and information, including the identification of the occurrence of harm.
• Procedure for the reporting of child protection or welfare concerns to Tusla
• Procedure for maintaining a list of the persons (if any) in the relevant service who are mandated persons.
• Procedure for appointing a relevant person.
All procedures listed are available upon request.

5. Implementation
We recognize that implementation is an on-going process. Our service is committed to the implementation of this Child Safeguarding Statement and the procedures that support our intention to keep children safe from harm while availing of our services.

This Child safeguarding Statement will be reviewed March 3rd, 2022, or sooner after there has been a material change in any matter to which the statement refers.
Signed: Sam Doran (Designated Liaisons Person)
[Sam Doran: 0860235557]

For queries, please contact Sam Doran, Relevant Person under the Children First Act 2015.

 

DESIGNATED LIAISON PERSON AND MANDATED PERSON

Children First Act 2015 requires that every organisation providing services to children appoint a Designated Liaison Person (DLP) for reporting neglect or abuse. The DLP is responsible for dealing with child protection and welfare concerns in accordance with Children First Act 2015 and Our Duty to Care.
The Child Protection Officer will be appointed by the board of management/manager to undertake the below duties when the DLP is on leave or is unavailable for a long period of time.

Designated Liaison Person Child Protection Officer
Name, post, contact details
Samuel Doran
0860235557 Name, post, contact details
Andy Kavanagh
087 299 3361

The Role of the DLP is to:
• Provide information and advice on child protection and welfare concerns and issues to the staff of the service
• Be accessible to all staff
• Ensure that they are knowledgeable about child protection and welfare and that they undertake any training considered necessary to keep updated on new developments
• Ensure that the Child Protection Act 2015 and Welfare Policy and procedures of the service are followed
• Be responsible for reporting concerns about the protection and welfare of children to TUSLA – Child & Family Agency or to An Garda Síochána
• Ensure that appropriate information is included in the report to the Child & Family Agency and that the reported is submitted in writing (under confidential cover) using the Standard Report form
• Liaise with the Child & Family Agency, An Garda Síochána and other agencies as appropriate
• Keep relevant people within the organisation informed of relevant issues, whilst maintaining confidentiality
• Ensure that an individual case record is maintained of the action taken by the Bluebell Knockmitten United fc, the liaison with other agencies and the outcome
• Advise the organisation of child protection training needs
• Maintain a central log or record of all child protection and welfare concerns in the service
It must be remembered that the Designated Liaison Persons role within Bluebell Knockmitten United fc is to support staff and volunteers to make reports to Tusla.  It is not their role to do this for staff, however, they may have to assist volunteers with this process.  Remember, the first port of call for staff in all child safeguarding situations is through their Line Manager. 

Mandated Persons
Harm, in relation to a child, means:
(a) Assault, ill-treatment, or neglect of the child in a manner that seriously affects, or is likely to seriously affect the child’s health, development, or welfare.
or
(b) Sexual abuse of the child.
The Children First Act 2015 places a legal obligation on certain people, many of whom are professionals, to report child protection concerns at or above a defined threshold to Tusla. These mandated persons must also assist Tusla, on request, in its assessment of child protection concerns about children/young people who have been the subject of a mandated report. 
Mandated persons are people who have contact with children and/or families and who, because of their qualifications, training and/or employment role, are in a key position to help protect children from harm. 
Where a mandated person knows, believes or has reasonable grounds to suspect, on the basis of information that he or she has received, acquired or becomes aware of in the course of his or her employment or profession that a child-
(a) Has been harmed,
(b) Is being harmed, or
(c) Is at risk of being harmed,
he or she shall, as soon as practicable, report that knowledge, belief, or suspicion to Tusla.
Where a child believes that he or she
(a) Has been harmed,
(b) Is being harmed, or
(c) Is at risk of being harmed,
and discloses this belief to a mandated person during the mandated person’s employment or profession, the mandated person shall, as soon as practicable, report that disclosure to Tusla.
If, as a Mandated Person you have a concern in relation to a child/young person out of hours please contact Tusla.

Non-Mandated Persons
Volunteers and staff not listed as mandated persons have a duty of care in ensuring children and young people are safe and have a duty to report any concerns, they may have in relation to child safeguarding or welfare concerns.
Where a child believes that he or she
(a) Has been harmed,
(b) Is being harmed, or
(c) Is at risk of being harmed,
and discloses this belief to a non-mandated person, they have a duty of care to report this concern to their Child Protection Officer or Designated Liaison Person (DLP) within Bluebell Knockmitten United fc
If you are a Non-Mandated Person, concerns in relation to children or young people out of hours should be reported to An Garda Siochana.

REASONABLE GROUNDS FOR CONCERNS OF CHILD ABUSE

Reasonable grounds for concern that a child may have been, is being, or is at risk of being abused or neglected should always be reported to Tusla in consultation with the relevant Child Protection Person and/or Designated Liaison Person.  If symptoms of abuse are ignored it could result in ongoing harm to the child.  It is not necessary for a staff or volunteer to prove that abuse has occurred to report a concern to Tusla.  It is Tusla’s role to assess concerns that are reported.  Reasonable grounds for a child protection or welfare concern include:
• Evidence, for example an injury or behaviour, that is consistent with abuse and is unlikely to have been caused in any other way.
• Any concern about possible sexual abuse.
• Consistent signs that a child is suffering from emotional or physical neglect.
• A child saying or indicating by other means that he or she has been abused.
• Admission or indication by an adult or a child or an alleged abuse they committed.
• An account from a person who saw the child being abused.
• Retrospective disclosure by an adult.
The safety and wellbeing of the child must take priority over concerns about adults against whom an allegation may be made and reports of concerns should be made without delay to Tusla.
If a child is in immediate danger and Tusla cannot be contacted, the Gardai should be contacted without delay.
As part of this policy, Bluebell Knockmitten United fc have appointed a Designated Liaison Person (DLP) who is the ‘go to’ person within the organisation should there be concerns about child safeguarding. 

DEALING WITH DISCLOSURES OF ABUSE

Child abuse can be categorised into four different types: neglect; emotional abuse; physical abuse and sexual abuse.  A child may be subjected to one or more forms of abuse at any given time.  Abuse and neglect can occur within the family, in the community or in an institutional setting.  The abuser may be someone known to the child or a stranger and can be an adult or another child.  In a situation where abuse is alleged to have been carried out by another child, it should be considered a child welfare and protection issue for both children. 
Under no circumstances should a child be left in a situation that exposes him or her to harm or risk pending Child & Family Agency intervention. In the event of an emergency and unavailability of a Duty Social Worker, the DLP will contact An Garda Síochána.

Everyone must be alert to the possibility that children and young people with whom they are in contact may be experiencing abuse or have been abused in the past.  This is an important responsibility for staff and volunteers when working with children and young people.
In the event of a child/young person disclosing an incident of abuse, it is essential that it is dealt with sensitively and professionally by the staff member/volunteer involved.  The following are guidelines to support the worker/volunteer:
• React calmly.
• Listen carefully and attentively.
• Take the child/young person seriously.
• Reassure the child/young person that they have taken the right action in talking to you.
• Do not promise to keep anything secret.
• Ask questions for clarification only.  Do not ask leading questions.
• Check back with the child/young person that what you have heard is correct and understood.
• Do not express any opinions about the alleged abuser.
• Record the conversation as soon as possible, in as much detail as possible using the language of the child/young person.  Sign and date the record.
• Ensure that the child/young person understands the procedures which will follow.
• Treat the information confidentially.
• Inform the Line Manager.
• Ensure parents of child/young person are informed unless doing so puts the child in a vulnerable or dangerous situation.
• Complete the Standard Tusla Reporting Form and submit to the relevant Duty Social Worker.
• Ensure a copy of the Standard Reporting Form is submitted to Bluebell Knockmitten United fc Designated Liaison Person (DLP).
The safety and wellbeing of the child or young person must take priority and reports should be made without delay to Tusla. 
Tusla operate an out-of-hours social work service which is available by contacting An Garda Siochana.  This service deals with emergencies that occur outside of office hours.  If there are concerns for the immediate safety of a child, An Garda Siochana should be contacted in an out-of-hours situation.  The out of hours service deals with cases that come to the attention of An Garda Siochana, where a child is at immediate risk of harm.  Emergency placements can be made when necessary. 

 

RETROSPECTIVE DISCLOSURES BY AN ADULT

The term retrospective abuse refers to abuse that an adult discloses that took place during their childhood.  In cases of retrospective abuse, a report needs to be made to Tusla where there is a current or potential future risk to children.  Such disclosures can possibly come to light when an adult attends counselling or is having a discussion with a staff member.  If a client discloses, they were abused as a child, this must be reported to Tusla, as the alleged abuser may pose a current risk to children/young people.  In cases of retrospective abuse, where there are no identified children, a Retrospective Abuse Form should be completed and sent to Tusla.

 

Duty Social Work Team, Tusla – Child & Family Agency An Garda Síochána  Tusla Dublin
Name, post, contact details (phone number and address)
Duty Social Work Department, Chamber House, Chamber Square, Tallaght, Dublin 24.
(01) 4686289 Name, post, contact details (phone number and address)
Clondlkin Garda Station, Clondalkin Village. D22
(01)  6667600 Dublin
01 7718500

Dublin 10
01
6201100

Community Services/Services with a Voluntary Management Committee:   Where there is a voluntary management committee in place, the chairperson is informed each time a referral or report is made under the Child Protection Act 2015 and Welfare Policy. In accordance with the confidentiality policy no identifying information is included when informing the chairperson.

Other Services:  If the owner is not the DLP they are informed when a referral or a report is made under the Child Protection Act 2015 and Welfare Policy.

Procedure when a referral is not made to the Child & Family Agency
• Not all concerns will meet the reasonable grounds for concern.  In this case, the concern and any informal consultation will be documented and kept confidentially and securely.
• The DLP will inform the member of staff, volunteer or student who raised the concern that it is not being referred in writing, indicating the reasons.  The DLP will advise the individual that they may make a report themselves or contact the Duty Social Work Team and that the provision of the Protection for Persons Reporting Child Abuse Act, 2015will apply.

 Informing Parents about Child Protection and Welfare Concerns
• Good communication with parents is very important in ensuring best outcomes for children and any concerns about the health and well-being of a child will always be discussed with parents from the outset.
• When a child protection concern is being reported to the Child & Family Agency, good practice indicates that parents should be informed about the report unless doing so may put the child at further risk.  The DLP may seek advice from the Child and Family Agency Social Work Department in relation to this. 

CONFIDENTIALITY STATEMENT

The effective protection of a child often depends on the willingness of the staff in statutory and voluntary organisations involved with children to share and exchange relevant information. It is therefore critical that there is a clear understanding of professional and legal responsibilities with regard to confidentiality and the exchange of information.

Confidentiality
Working with children and young people involves the development of trusting relationships where it may be common for children and young people to divulge personal information.  Confidentiality is about managing sensitive information in a manner that is respectful, professional, and purposeful.  No undertakings regarding secrecy can be given.  Those working with a child/young person and family should make this clear to all parties involved. 
Staff and Volunteers within Bluebell Knockmitten United fc need to observe the following in relation to confidentiality:
• All information regarding child safeguarding concerns or suspected cases of child abuse must be shared on a ‘need to know basis’ and always in the best interests of the child’s welfare and safety.  These matters should not be discussed with staff/volunteers within Bluebell Knockmitten United fc if they are not directly involved in the situation.
• In the case of a child safeguarding concern, staff/volunteers should not promise to keep secrets to the person disclosing the information.  The person making the disclosure must be informed that the information will be shared with the appropriate person within Bluebell Knockmitten United fc who will handle the information sensitively.
• Personal information, gathered for a specific purpose, will not be used for any other purpose without consulting the person who provided that information. 
Sharing information with an appropriate person (usually the Line Manager, DLP or HR) is not a breach of confidentiality.  Bluebell Knockmitten United fc has a responsibility to protect children and young people in their care.

Limits to Confidentiality
The following are limits to confidentiality:
* If a strong belief or evidence exists that there is a serious risk of harm or danger to a child or young person.  This may relate to issues surrounding physical, emotional or sexual abuse, concerns for child protection, rape, self-harm, suicidal intent or criminal activity.
* Occasions when disclosure is required as part of a legal process or Garda investigation. In such instance’s information may be disclosed to significant others or appropriate third parties without permission being sought. Where possible a full explanation will be given to the client regarding the necessary procedures and intended actions that may need to be taken.

ALLEGATIONS OF ABUSE OR NEGLECT AGAINST EMPLOYEES

When developing procedures for dealing with allegation of abuse or neglect against employees it is recommended that services seek legal advice and/or Human Resource Management advice. 

• The protection and welfare of the children in Bluebell Knockmitten Utd are paramount and their safety and well-being is the priority. However, Bluebell Knockmitten Utd also has a duty and responsibility, as a Club, in respect of its Coaches and Volunteers.  It is important to note that there are two procedures to be followed when an allegation of abuse or neglect is made against an employee:
1. Reporting procedure in respect of any child protection and welfare concern
2. The procedure in respect to the allegation against the employee

It is recommended that two different people are nominated to manage each procedure. In small staff teams it may be necessary to call on external people who are independent to the parties.

Where an allegation of abuse is made against an employee/volunteer of Bluebell Knockmitten Utd, the Line Manager must be immediately be informed.  The Designated Liaison Person (DLP) will engage with the child/young person and HR will engage with the employee/volunteer.  The following procedures will apply:

• The safety of the child/young person is the priority of Bluebell knockmitten United fc and all necessary steps will be taken to ensure that the child/young person is safe.

• Bluebell knockmitten United fc will ensure that no other children/young people are at risk during this period and will inform other relevant agencies.

• The measures which can be taken to ensure the safety of children and young people can include the following:
- Suspension of duties of the person accused.
- Re-assignment of duties where the accused will not have contact with children/young people.
- Working under supervision during the period of investigation.

• Unless advised to do otherwise by An Garda Siochana, Bluebell Knockmitten United fc will notify the employee/volunteer that an allegation has been made and the nature of the allegation.  The employee/volunteer will be afforded an opportunity to respond.  Bluebell Knockmitten United fc will note the response and pass the information to the Designated Liaison Person (DLP) who will include this information if a formal report is being made to Tusla. 

• Bluebell Knockmitten United fc will ensure that the principle of ‘natural justice’ will apply whereby a person is considered innocent until proven otherwise.

• Bluebell Knockmitten United fc will work in co-operation with An Garda Siochana and Tusla and any decisions on action to be taken in regard to the employee/volunteer will be taken in consultation with these agencies.

• The person against whom the allegation is made will need support during this period and Bluebell Knockmitten United fc will provide advice on how to access the relevant support services.

• The person receiving the allegation needs to be mindful that they have a duty of confidentiality and should only discuss the situation with their Line Manager/DLP. 
Should an allegation be made against the Line Manager of KYCA, the Chairperson of the Board will be informed and manage the situation.

PARENTS AND ALLEGATION OF ABUSE OR NEGLECT AGAINST EMPLOYEES
• Parents have the right to contact the Child & Family Agency to report an allegation of abuse or neglect about the employee or service.
• Parents of children who are named in an allegation of abuse or neglect will be kept informed of actions planned and taken, having regard to the rights of others concerned.
• If there is any concern that a child may have been harmed thier parents will be informed immediately.

RECORD KEEPING/ACCESS AND STORAGE OF INFORMATION

All information in relation to Child Safeguarding and Welfare Concerns should be submitted on the appropriate Standard Reporting Forms to the relevant Duty Social Worker within Tusla.  A copy of these forms must also be submitted to the Designated Liaison Person (DLP) within Bluebell knockmitten United fc.  Any acknowledgements or correspondence from Tusla must also be submitted to the DLP.
Copies of these reports should not be kept in local services unless there is a clear reason for doing so.  This information is treated in the strictest of confidence and maintained in a locked filing cabinet in line with General Data Protection Legislation. 

Under the Child Care (Pre-school Services) Regulations 2006, accurate and up to date records in relation to children, staff and service provision must be kept.  The Early Years (Preschool) Inspectorate will have access to files for inspection purposes.

SELF RECRUITMENT

• We will ensure that all staff and volunteers are carefully selected in line with the Service Recruitment Policy Regulations 2006.   The following will be undertaken:
- Development of job description which outlines the qualifications, skills and experience needed for each post
- Advertising vacancies externally and as widely as practicable
- Requesting candidates to supply personal information on an application form
- Interviews will be conducted by more than one person.  It is the responsibility of the interview panel and not one individual to appoint staff
- All processes should be consistent and transparent.  (i.e. interview questions agreed in advance, scoring sheets and feedback to candidates)
- Prior to commencement of position, proof of identity including address (passport, driving licence or ID card) will be requested and kept on file.
- Prior to commencement of position satisfactory Garda Vetting will be in place for all staff or volunteers.
- The development of criteria on decision making regarding suitability in the event of a vetting disclosure (Garda Vetting Policy)

• Any child protection and welfare concerns that arise through the recruitment process should be dealt with through the reporting procedures.
• All new appointments should be subject to a probationary period for a stated period and a review meeting held before the post is confirmed.
• All employees will be provided with an employment contract.

RESPONDING TO COMPLAINS

Policy Statement:
Bluebell Knockmitten United fc works in partnership with parents by seeking their views and encouraging parents to participate in any decision making in relation to the service. We welcome comments/suggestions on the delivery of the service.

Procedures for Responding to a Complaint
• Bluebell Knockmitten United fc undertake to ensure all complaints are taken seriously and dealt with fairly, impartially, and confidentially.
• Bluebell Knockmitten United fc will endeavour to resolve complaints quickly and informally through discussion with parents and members of staff as appropriate
• If Bluebell Knockmitten United fc find that we have made a mistake or that something could have been done better Bluebell Knockmitten United fc will change the way, we do things to avoid making the same mistake in future.
• Complaints can be made by parents, guardians, and other advocates on behalf of children.
• If a parent is not satisfied with any aspect of Bluebell Knockmitten United fc they are requested to resolve the issue informally through discussion with the room leader /manager.
• If the problem persists, re-occurs or the parent is not satisfied with the response, the complaint should be put in writing to the manager/DLP

Community Services/Services with a Board of Management
• The Board of Management may then nominate a committee member to meet with the parents and the room leader/manager (as appropriate) to try and resolve the issue.
• Most complaints are resolved at this stage. However, if there are other or more serious issues arising from the complaint or it cannot be resolved then both sides may agree the need for a third party to mediate in relation to the complaint.
• Written records of discussion and agreements made will be kept of this meeting and copies made available to parents, room leader, or other involved staff (as appropriate).
• All complaints will be dealt within in a timely manner.

Other services
• If the issue still remains unresolved the manager will ask the parents to put their complaint in writing to them, a further meeting may take place and agreements reached will be written up and copies forwarded to parents and other relevant personnel (as appropriate).
• Most complaints are resolved at this stage. However, if there are other or more serious issues arising from the complaint then both sides may agree the need for a third party to mediate in relation to the complaint.
• Depending on the nature of the complaint the Disciplinary procedures may also be followed.

 

MANAGEMENT OF DAY TRIPS/OUTINGS FROM SERVIS

Policy Statement
Bluebell Knockmitten Utd aims to provide children with a varied and wide experience and from time to time Bluebell Knockmitten Utd may organize day trips and outings. It is our policy to ensure the safety and well-being of children during these activities through planning, risk assessment, management, and supervision of the activity.

Managing Routine Outings
Bluebell Knockmitten Utd uses the facilities in park when weather permits. In managing and planning these activities we will:
• Inform parents at enrolment of the proposed activity, method of travel and supervision in place
• Seek written consent from the parents; children will not be able to participate in this activity unless this has been obtained
• Ensure an adequate number of personnel are present and that the children are supervised at all times
• Ensure that the person in charge will have access to a mobile phone in case of emergency
• A risk assessment of the venue/facility will be carried out and reviewed annually
• Ensure that adequate insurance is in place for the outing
• Ensure staff are familiar with emergency procedures

Managing and Planning Day Trips/Outings
Bluebell Knockmitten United fc aims to provide children with a varied and wide experience and from time to time Bluebell Knockmitten United fc will organize Day Trips. The following will be considered in planning these activities.
• All trips and outings will be planned in advance and a risk assessment will be carried out with regard to the following issues: safety in regard to method of transport, facilities, activities, accessibility for children with additional needs and emergencies.
• We will ensure that the method of transport complies with relevant safety requirements and insurance.
• We will ensure that adequate insurance is in place and that appropriate staff/child ratios are maintained in line with the pre-school regulations and the risk assessment.
• An outline of the details of the trip and related activities will be supplied in writing to parents and written consent by a parent specifically for each trip will be obtained. Parents will be asked to provide information about any allergies that their child has.
• Where appropriate, parents may be invited to accompany their children on trips.
• If all staff are leaving Bluebell Knockmitten utd , emergency contacts for all children will be brought on the trip.
• Children will be appropriately supervised at all times and the relevant adult/child ratios maintained.
• Safety Measures such as frequent head counts/roll calls at key stages, name tags, hats, armbands may be used as appropriate.

Managing Emergencies and Critical Incidents
• A first aid box will be brought and a person with a First Aid certificate will be present
• The person in charge will have access to a mobile phone in case or emergency
• Bluebell Knockmitten utd does its up most to minimize risk and ensure the safety of all children at all times. However, it is important that staff are prepared for any emergencies that may arise andin this regard, a plan to deal with emergencies (such as critical incidents or an incident involving a missing child) will be developed for each outing. Staff will be reminded of any relevant policies and procedures prior to the day trip.

DEALING WITH ACCIDENTS AND INCIDENTS

Policy Statement
It is our policy to promote the health, well-being and safety of all the children in our service through the implementation of robust policies and procedures and by developing and regularly reviewing accident prevention procedures and fire safety.  Although we adhere to all safety precautions and guidelines, accidents may occur. 

Responding to an Accident or Incident
• Bluebell Knockmitten Utd will ensure that all personnel are aware of emergency numbers and that they are prominently displayed. 
• Bluebell Knockmitten Utd will ensure that all relevant personnel have up to date First Aid Training and that a complete First Aid Box is accessible.
• The safety and welfare of the child is always the first consideration if a child is injured or an accident occurs.
• After an accident, as soon as practicable, the accident Report Form is completed and recorded in the accident book/log.
• The DLP/owner/chairperson is informed of serious accidents or incidents.
• Parents are always informed of incidents or accidents involving their child and requested to sign the relevant form.
• The Manager/DLP will review the accident and incident reports annually

SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY- IT, Email & Internet
Bluebell Knockmitten Utd
The purpose of this policy is to outline the appropriate standards, behaviour, and requirements with regard to the use of social media. Participating in external social media may be either on behalf of Centre business or for personal reasons.
This policy must be read in conjunction with other worker policies such as equality, bullying and harassment, internet/e-mail usage, data protection and confidentiality. Your existing obligations with regard to these policies are also applicable to the use of social media.

1.1 DEFINITION
Social media integrates technology and social interaction. It can include blogging, microblogging, videos, photo sharing and networking sites online. Examples of such tools include: Blogger, Facebook, Flickr, MySpace, Twitter, YouTube, WordPress, etc.

1.2 GENERAL SOCIAL MEDIA GUIDELINES
The Club recognises that nominated workers will be using social media professionally as part of their duties. Therefore, some general guidelines to follow are outlined below: -
As with traditional media, it is necessary to protect Knockmitten Youth and Community Centre’s reputation in online media and to selectively engage and participate in online conversations that refer to the Club.
When speaking “on behalf of Bluebell Knockmitten utd”:
Representing Bluebell Knockmitten utd:
a) Any social media post shall convey a message in the same way as other Club communications and shall meet the acceptable standard for Club communication and conduct. Spokespersons shall be respectful of all individuals, races, religions and cultures, as representation in the online social media space not only reflects on an individual, it is also a direct reflection on Bluebell Knockmitten utd
If speaking “on behalf of the Bluebell Knockmitten utd Keep records.
b) It is important to keep records of interactions in the online social media space (including screenshots). Remember that online statements can be held to the same legal standards as traditional media communications. Keep records of any online dialogue and send a copy to the Club Committee if necessary
It is important for workers to remember that local posts can have global reach.
c) Do not post material that is inaccurate, unlawful, obscene, defamatory, threatening, harassing, abusive, slanderous, hateful, biased, or embarrassing to any other person or entity. A worker is personally responsible for his/her words and actions. As an online spokesperson, a worker must ensure that posts are completely accurate, are not misleading, and do not reveal confidential information. If uncertain about how to respond to a post, a worker shall contact the Centre Manager and request an official response before posting information on the Knockmitten Youth and Community Centre’s social media accounts.
Know that the Internet is permanent.
d) Once information is published online, it is essentially part of a permanent record, even if Bluebell Knockmitten utd – “removed/deleted” later or attempt is made to make anonymous. When uploading content to social media sites, be aware that it may be available to the media and general public regardless of whether a profile is public or private.
Copyright and other Legal Issues.
e) Publishers shall not claim authorship of something that they did not originate. When using another person’s content, make certain that they are credited for it in posts and that they approve of the use of their content. Do not use the copyrights, trademarks, publicity rights, or other rights of others without the necessary permissions of the rights holder(s).
Proprietary or Confidential Information.
f) Proprietary information shall not be exchanged, discussed, or referred to on social networking sites even in private messages between site members who have authorised access to the information.
g) You should not share any information about your work colleagues with a third party. Confidentiality also applies to discussion forums. Workers must not discuss their employer, colleagues, or customers on such forums.
Personal Social Media Activities should not interfere with work commitments.
h) The Internet may only be used for personal use during the lunch break
i) Management reserves the right to monitor emails in and out of the company.
All internet usage by staff will be monitored and any misuse / inappropriate downloading will not be accepted. This will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including dismissal.

1.3 PERSONAL SOCIAL MEDIA GUIDELINES
We respect the right of our volunteers to develop and maintain personal relationships online through blogs, social networking sites, microblogging, video, and photo sharing. These interactions will be of a personal nature for the most part but may include information about the Club.
The Club’s IT resources are dedicated to achieving our business objectives, therefore personal use must not interfere with work commitments.
In addition to the general guidelines listed above, here are a few addition guidelines for personal interaction online:
• If you publish content on any website outside of the Club and it has something to do with the work you do or topics associated with the Centre, use a disclaimer such as “The postings on this site are my own and don’t necessarily represent Bluebell Knockmitten utd’s position, strategies or opinions”.
• While disclaimers like this are a good practice, they may not be legally binding or protect you, or the Centre, from legal ramifications arising from statements you write. Please be mindful of what you write and remember that once content is posted online it cannot be retracted.
• Regularly review your own privacy settings to ensure that you have sufficient personal protection and that access is limited where appropriate.
• If you make a mistake, acknowledge the error, and correct it immediately.
• Do not disclose any confidential, proprietary information, photos, or videos about or related to the Club. Disclosing this type of information can violate any number of laws. This information includes, but is not limited to, financial projections, sales and marketing plans, Centre activities and courses.
• Respect copyright. It is essential that you respect laws governing trademark, intellectual property, copyright, and fair use of copyrighting materials owned by others
• Do not give references or comment on professional capabilities of workers, former workers, customers, or clients on-line, without prior approval. Even personal references can imply that the recommendation is from Bluebell Knockmitten utd
• Any inappropriate activity or information published regarding the Centre, fellow workers, customers, clients, or suppliers should be reported immediately to the Staff Subgroup.
1.4 BREACH OF SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY
Bluebell Knockmitten utd reserves the right to utilise for disciplinary purposes any information that could have a negative effect on the Club or its workers which is discovered through internet monitoring or is brought to the Club’s attention by workers, customers, clients or other third party.
Non-compliance with this policy or related policies may lead to disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal. Details of the disciplinary procedures are set out in the Disciplinary Procedures Policy.