SAFEGUARDING | SKILL7FC

Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy

Introduction

Safeguarding policy statement:

Note: The terms 'child' and 'young person' describe any person under the age of 18. References to 'parents' should be read as parents and carers inclusively.

Our statement:

Our organisation acknowledges the duty of care to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and is committed to ensuring safeguarding practice reflects statutory responsibilities, government guidance and complies with best practice and Ofsted requirements.

The policy recognises that the welfare and interests of children are paramount in all circumstances. It aims to ensure that regardless of age, ability or disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation, socio-economic background, all children have a positive and enjoyable experience of sport at safe and child centred environment are protected from abuse whilst participating in the activities provided by the organisation or outside of the activities.

We acknowledge that some children, including disabled children or those from ethnic minority communities, can be particularly vulnerable to abuse and we accept the responsibility to take reasonable and appropriate steps to ensure their welfare.

Our Policy

As part of our safeguarding policy, we will…

promote and prioritise the safety and wellbeing of children and young people.
value, listen to and respect children.
ensure robust safeguarding arrangements and procedures are in operation.
adopt safeguarding best practice through our policies, procedures, and code of conduct for staff and volunteers.
ensure everyone understands their roles and responsibilities in respect of safeguarding and is 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.
provide effective management for staff and volunteers through supervision, support, training, and quality assurance measures so that all staff and volunteers know about our policies, procedures and behaviour codes and follow them confidently and competently.
ensure appropriate action is taken in the event of all incidents or concerns, both lower-level and concerns of abuse, and support provided to the individual(s) who raise or disclose the concern.
ensure that confidential, detailed, and accurate records of all safeguarding concerns are maintained and securely stored.
record and store information securely, in line with data protection legislation and guidance [more information about this is available from the Information Commissioner's Office.
prevent the employment or deployment of unsuitable individuals by recruiting and selecting staff and volunteers safely, ensuring all necessary checks are made.
appoint a nominated safeguarding lead for children and young people, a deputy, and a lead trustee/board member for safeguarding.
develop and implement an effective online safety policy and related procedures.
share information about safeguarding and good practice with children and their parents via leaflets, posters, group work and one-to-one discussions.
make sure that children, young people, and their parents know where to go for help if they have a concern.

The policy and procedures will be widely promoted and are mandatory for everyone involved in Skill 7 Limited – T/A Skill 7 FC. Failure to comply with the policy and procedures will be addressed without delay and may ultimately result in dismissal or exclusion from the organisation.

Monitoring

This policy will be reviewed a year after development and then every three years, or in the following circumstances:

changes in legislation and/or government guidance
as required by the local safeguarding partnership, UK Sport and/or home country sports councils and Ofsted.
as a result of any other significant change or event.

This policy was last reviewed on 1st January 2024.

Signed: Savvas John Savva

Skill 7 Limited’s acknowledges that some children, including disabled children and young people or those from ethnic minority communities, can be particularly vulnerable to abuse and accepts responsibility to take reasonable steps to ensure their welfare.

Pre-Employment Vetting:

All Skill 7 Limited staff undergo thorough checks before employment offers are made.
An advanced DBS check is mandatory for all applicants.
Five references are required, including one family member, one close family friend, and three professional contacts of at least three years, with recent interactions within the past twelve months.

Definition of Applicants:

Past players and placement students are key members of our team.
Past players have attended Skill 7 FC sessions for a minimum of two years.
Placement students have completed a voluntary work placement lasting at least six months.

Qualities We Value:

Teamwork and independence are equally important.
A proactive approach during the trial period is favourable.

Interview Process:

Applicants meeting our criteria are invited for an interview.
A second interview, if required, involves the applicant and, if under 18, a parent/guardian.

Offer of Employment:

A coaching or assistant position is offered if all criteria are met.
Coaching qualifications can be pursued within the first three months and completed within twelve months.
First Aid and Safeguarding Children courses are mandatory before employment, or during apprenticeships.

Complaints Procedure:

Formal complaints are to be submitted in writing within thirty days of the final interview.
The process remains the same for complaints during employment.

At Skill 7 Limited, we believe in maintaining transparency, fairness, and professionalism in our hiring and employment practices.

Definition:

Staff recruitment, a cornerstone of organizational growth, involves strategically selecting individuals to fill pivotal roles within your organization. Regardless of the position, the recruitment process adheres to established standards, ensuring excellence at every step.

Guidance:

Job Analysis:

Before initiating recruitment, a meticulous job analysis is imperative. This entails understanding the job's essence, its associated tasks, and expected outcomes. Assessing existing roles for potential enhancements, often guided by insights from exit interviews, further refines our approach.

Job Description:

Crafting a compelling job description is an art. It provides prospective candidates with a comprehensive overview, including the job title, salary range, and a concise paragraph outlining the role's purpose. Detailed duties and responsibilities follow, painting a vivid picture of the position.

Person Specification:

The person specification meticulously outlines essential and desirable competencies vital for the role. This document shapes our shortlisting criteria, encompassing skills, knowledge, experience, education, and training. Personal qualities crucial for role delivery are also highlighted, aiding candidates in assessing their fit.

Inviting Applications:

Crafting an enticing post ensures a robust response. Clear, concise advertisements are vital, incorporating pertinent details such as organization activities, essential criteria, rewards, and application instructions. Upholding our commitment to equal opportunities, we promote a discrimination-free environment and promptly acknowledge application submissions.

Innovative Recruitment Methods:

We employ diverse methods to attract top talent.
Collaborating with specialized executive search recruitment agencies, leveraging their expertise for niche roles.
Engaging reputable commercial recruitment agencies, tapping into their pool of candidates across various work domains.
Utilizing online platforms, a cost-effective medium with extensive reach.
Strategic advertising in local/national media and specialist journals, ensuring visibility in specific sectors.
Internal advertising fosters skill development among existing staff, bolstering motivation and team synergy.

At Skill 7 Limited, our recruitment process transcends traditional norms. We are dedicated to selecting individuals whose skills and passion align seamlessly with our organizational vision, fostering a vibrant and dynamic team. Excellence begins with the right talent.

Selecting Candidates:

In the meticulous process of shortlisting candidates, we diligently match application details against the criteria outlined in the person specification. To streamline this process, especially when handling a high volume of applications, we employ telephone screening. This vital step enables us to delve deeper into candidates' qualifications, addressing any CV/application gaps and understanding their motivations for joining our organization. Candidates meeting our stringent requirements are then invited for a face-to-face interview.

The Interview Process:

Our interviews are conducted by a panel, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation. Preparedness is key; our team thoroughly reviews application materials and job specifications. We craft insightful questions tailored to the role and our business, fostering a dynamic conversation. This mutual exploration allows us to assess candidates' alignment with our organization, creating a valuable two-way dialogue.

Reference Checks and Appropriate Verification:

We diligently follow up on references, seeking confirmation from former employers and tutors. Ensuring candidates have the right to work in the UK is a priority, supported by thorough checks and the presentation of appropriate documents. Verification of qualifications and licenses is also standard practice, upholding the integrity of our hiring process.

Making the Appointment:

Decisions post-interviews are prompt and informed. We utilize a structured scoring system, aligning candidates against set criteria. Successful candidates receive a detailed offer letter, outlining the role's title, salary, payment details, working hours, and holiday entitlement. The letter also clarifies any probationary period specifics and includes the job description and person specification. We uphold a professional standard, requesting written acceptance of the offer's terms.

Induction Process for New Employees:

Our induction process ensures seamless integration for new team members. It provides comprehensive insights into our organization and fosters connections with existing staff, ensuring a smooth transition into our vibrant work culture.

What We Avoid:

We are committed to avoiding any form of discriminatory language, fostering a respectful and inclusive environment. In our job adverts, we prioritize clarity and specificity, eliminating ambiguities and generalizations. This approach not only saves time during the screening process but also attracts candidates genuinely aligned with our requirements.

Document Date: 1st January 2024

Review Date: 31st December 2024

At Skill 7 Limited, excellence in recruitment is our commitment. We navigate the process with precision, ensuring every addition to our team enhances our collective capabilities and drives our organization's success.

General Risk Assessment:

In our commitment to safety, coaches are required to:

Familiarize themselves with the first aid kit and be aware of the nearest phone for emergencies.
Utilize hypoallergenic plasters for cuts after cleaning and drying the wound.
Approach injured children cautiously, asking about the issue before administering first aid, if necessary.
Avoid one-on-one situations with children; always ensure the presence of another adult or group.
Use designated staff toilets; avoid children’s facilities for privacy and appropriateness.
Thoroughly inspect playing areas, removing hazards like animal excrement, rubbish, and sharp objects.
Bring personal healthy meals, snacks, and drinks; Head Coaches should remain on-site during sessions.
Verify appropriate attire, footwear, shin pads, and goalkeeper gloves for all participants.
Encourage stretches and position yourself strategically for clear group visibility during activities.

Covid-19 Risk Assessment:

During Covid outbreaks, strict adherence to safety protocols is paramount:

Organize small groups with designated bubbles where feasible.
Ensure safe distances between children, especially during breaks.
Prohibit direct contact with equipment using bare hands; encourage elbow bumps for congratulations.
Thoroughly disinfect all equipment after each session, following school guidelines.
Facilitate changing into football kits within class bubbles.
Implement regular handwashing/sanitizing throughout sessions; emphasize proper handwashing techniques.
Parents are not permitted on school premises; activities will occur exclusively outdoors.
Children exhibiting flu-like symptoms will not be allowed to attend sessions.
Coaches will meet children at designated areas, maintaining social distance and organization for personal belongings.

Document Date: 1st January 2024

Review Date: 31st December 2024

At Skill 7 Limited, we prioritise the safety and well-being of every participant. These guidelines serve as a testament to our dedication, ensuring a secure and enjoyable environment for all.

Child Protection Policy: Ensuring a Secure Sporting Environment

At Skill 7 Limited, we are resolute in our commitment to creating a safe and enjoyable environment for every child and young person engaging in sports. Child protection is a sensitive subject, but we approach it with empathy, understanding, and unwavering dedication to the well-being of every participant.

Our Commitment:

Skill 7 Limited acknowledges its responsibility to safeguard the welfare of all children and young people. Our commitment is threefold:

Creating a Safe Environment:

We establish clear practices and procedures to ensure the safety and well-being of every child participating in our sports activities.
Ongoing development and training opportunities are provided to all our coaches, ensuring they are well-equipped to handle child protection matters effectively.

Delivering Quality Training:

We deliver top-quality child protection training, promoting best practices and ethical standards throughout our sporting community.
Our aim is to foster a positive and proactive approach, ensuring every child can engage in sports confidently and securely.

Collaborative Efforts:

We work closely with regulatory bodies, including Ofsted, Social Services Departments, and local Child Protection Committees, adhering to their procedures and guidelines.
Any suspicions of abuse are treated seriously, responded to swiftly, and addressed in partnership with children, young people, and their parents/guardians.

Our Regulations:

Skill 7 Limited's regulations, as defined in the FA Handbook, outline our firm stance:

Any act or behaviour causing harm to a child is considered improper and will result in disciplinary action.
Individuals charged with offenses related to child safety may be suspended from sports activities pending investigations.

Conclusion:

Through this policy document, Skill 7 Limited reaffirms its dedication to the safety and security of every child and young person participating in our sports activities. We believe in continual improvement, promoting good practices, and fostering an environment of vigilance and responsibility among all adults involved in our football activities.

Document Date: 1st January 2024

Review Date: 31st December 2024

Skill 7 Limited remains committed to the highest standards of child protection, ensuring that sports activities are not just enjoyable but also safe for every participant.

Code of Conduct:

Fostering Respect and Positive Values in Football

COACHES

As coaches of Skill 7 Limited, we uphold these principles:

Respect and Equality: Treat every individual with dignity and equality, irrespective of their abilities.
Player Well-being: Prioritize the safety and well-being of players above all, fostering a positive atmosphere for development.
Guidelines Adherence: Follow the guidelines set by governing bodies, ensuring our coaching aligns with industry standards.
Trust-Based Relationships: Develop relationships founded on trust and respect with players, promoting mutual understanding.
Avoiding Influence: Refrain from exerting undue influence for personal gain, always placing players' interests first.
Responsibility Empowerment: Encourage players to take responsibility for their actions and performance, fostering accountability.
Age-Appropriate Activities: Organize activities suitable for players' age, maturity, experience, and abilities.
Clear Expectations: Clarify expectations with players and parents, ensuring transparency and understanding from the outset.
Collaboration: Cooperate with specialists and other coaches for the players' benefit, fostering a collaborative environment.
Promoting Fair Play: Uphold the spirit of the game, promoting fair play, respect, and integrity, never condoning violations, or prohibited practices.
High Standards: Set and maintain high standards in behaviour, language, and appearance, setting a positive example.

PLAYERS

Players of Skill 7 Limited are expected to:

Self-Development: Strive to enhance their skills, tactics, and stamina, exhibiting continuous self-improvement.
Maximum Effort: Give their best performance in every game, demonstrating commitment even in favourable situations.
Positive Role Models: Lead by example for others, especially young players and supporters, embodying sportsmanship.
Ethical Play: Avoid gamesmanship and time-wasting, always acting in the best interest of the game.
Respect: Show respect for the laws, rules, and spirit of the game, accepting success and failure equally.
Respect for...
Opponents: Treat opponents with respect regardless of the game's outcome, ensuring fair play and safety.
Match Officials: Accept decisions without protest, refraining from misleading words or actions, demonstrating respect.
Team Officials and Supporters: Follow instructions from coaches, respecting opposition team officials and supporters' interests.

PARENTS & SPECTATORS

Parents and spectators play a vital role in fostering a positive football experience:

Encouragement: Provide positive encouragement to all players, promoting enjoyment, self-esteem, and skill development.
Positive Attitude: Avoid coaching during the game, refraining from shouting, or screaming, and celebrate all participants.
Inclusivity: Acknowledge and support every child, not just the most talented, encouraging participation for all.
Respect: Applaud both teams, uphold positive behaviour, and respect the decisions made by match officials.
All members of Skill 7 Limited, including parents and spectators, are expected to adhere to this Code of Conduct and our Child Protection Policy.

Document Date: 1st January 2024

Review Date: 31st December 2024

At Skill 7 Limited, we believe in fostering a culture of respect, integrity, and enjoyment in football for everyone involved.

Safeguarding statement

Everyone involved in providing activities for children will be given access to appropriate learning opportunities to recognise, identify and respond to signs of abuse, neglect and other safeguarding concerns relating to children and young people.

Contact details

Our Safeguarding/Welfare Officer

Name: Savvas John Savva

Tel: 07973 511 379

Email: skill7fc@icloud.com

Our Deputy Safeguarding/Welfare Officer

Name: Basit Amadu

Tel: 07366 241 740

Email: basit.skill7fc@icloud.com

In a safeguarding emergency, where a young person is at immediate risk of harm, call 999.