Creating a safe and secure environment for participants, especially minors, in a basketball club is of utmost importance. Safeguarding practices help protect individuals from harm, abuse, and misconduct. Here's a list of requirements, policies, and procedures that a basketball club should have in place to ensure safeguarding practices are followed:
Safeguarding Policy:
Develop a clear and comprehensive safeguarding policy that outlines the club's commitment to safeguarding the welfare of all participants, especially minors.
Include the club's values, principles, and the responsibilities of coaches, staff, volunteers, and participants.
Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO):
Appoint a trained and experienced DSO responsible for overseeing safeguarding procedures, reporting concerns, and liaising with relevant authorities.
Safe Recruitment and Vetting:
Establish a thorough recruitment process that includes background checks, references, and interviews for all staff and volunteers working with minors.
Ensure that individuals working directly with minors have completed the necessary safeguarding training and hold relevant qualifications.
Code of Conduct:
Develop a code of conduct that sets behavioral expectations for all club members, including coaches, players, parents, and spectators.
Clearly outline consequences for breaches of the code of conduct.
Reporting Procedures:
Implement clear and confidential reporting procedures for anyone who suspects or witnesses abuse, neglect, or misconduct.
Ensure that these procedures are communicated to all members and participants.
Record Keeping:
Maintain accurate records of all staff, volunteers, and participants, including contact details and relevant qualifications.
Keep records of any incidents, concerns, or allegations related to safeguarding.
Training and Awareness:
Provide regular safeguarding training to all coaches, staff, and volunteers.
Raise awareness among participants, parents, and guardians about safeguarding issues and reporting mechanisms.
Communication:
Establish effective communication channels for sharing safeguarding information and updates with club members and their families.
Encourage open and transparent communication regarding safeguarding concerns.
Risk Assessment:
Conduct regular risk assessments of club activities, facilities, and equipment to identify and mitigate potential risks to participants' safety.
Anti-Bullying Policy:
Develop and enforce an anti-bullying policy that addresses various forms of bullying, including cyberbullying, and specifies actions to prevent and respond to bullying incidents.
First Aid and Medical Procedures:
Ensure that coaches and staff are trained in first aid and have access to appropriate medical supplies.
Establish procedures for handling injuries and medical emergencies.
Transport and Travel Policies:
Implement guidelines for transportation and travel, including supervision, emergency contact information, and safe transportation of minors to and from events.
Photography and Media Consent:
Obtain consent from parents or guardians before using images or media featuring minors.
Set guidelines for appropriate photography and media coverage during club events.
Whistleblowing Policy:
Develop a whistleblowing policy that protects individuals who report safeguarding concerns from retaliation and ensures their anonymity when necessary.
Regular Review and Updates:
Periodically review and update safeguarding policies and procedures to reflect changes in legislation and best practices.
Partnerships with External Organizations:
Collaborate with local authorities, child protection agencies, and relevant sports governing bodies to strengthen safeguarding efforts.
Compliance and Monitoring:
Regularly monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of safeguarding policies and procedures.
Ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations.
Education and Prevention Programs:
Implement educational programs and workshops for participants, coaches, and parents to promote awareness and prevention of abuse and misconduct.
By establishing and consistently implementing these requirements, policies, and procedures, a basketball club can create a safer environment for its participants and uphold the principles of safeguarding. Regular training and communication are essential to ensure that everyone involved in the club is aware of their responsibilities and knows how to respond to safeguarding concerns appropriately.
Parents, clubs, and individuals involved in basketball can access valuable resources and information related to safeguarding practices through organisations like Sport England and Basketball England. Here are references to these organisations along with links to their relevant resources:
Sport England:
Sport England is a key organisation in the United Kingdom that promotes sports and physical activity. They provide resources and guidance on safeguarding in sports. Here are some resources available on their website:
Safeguarding in Sport: Sport England provides guidance on safeguarding in sports, including policies, procedures, and best practices. Sport England Safeguarding
Club Matters: Club Matters is a Sport England initiative that offers resources and support for sports clubs. It includes guidance on governance, safeguarding, and more. Club Matters Safeguarding
Basketball England:
Basketball England is the governing body for basketball in England. They provide specific resources and information related to safeguarding in basketball. Here are some relevant resources:
Safeguarding in Basketball: Basketball England offers guidance on safeguarding in basketball, including policies, procedures, and training. Basketball England Safeguarding
DBS Checks: Information on Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks for individuals working with children and vulnerable adults in basketball. Basketball England DBS Checks
NSPCC (National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children):
The NSPCC is a well-known organization in the UK dedicated to child protection. They offer resources and support for parents and clubs concerning child safeguarding.
Child Protection in Sport: NSPCC provides information and resources on child protection in sports, including policies and best practices. NSPCC Child Protection in Sport
Child Protection in Sport Unit (CPSU):
The CPSU is another organization focused on safeguarding children in sports. They provide resources, training, and guidance for clubs and organizations.
CPSU Resources: The CPSU offers a range of resources and tools to help clubs and organizations implement effective safeguarding practices. CPSU Resources
Parents, clubs, and individuals involved in basketball should regularly visit these websites to access the latest information, policies, and resources related to safeguarding in sports. Staying informed and following best practices is crucial for creating a safe and secure environment for all participants, especially minors.
Coach-to-children ratios
Maintaining appropriate coach-to-children ratios is essential for ensuring the safety and effective supervision of participants in basketball sessions, particularly when working with children of different age groups. Parents and clubs should pay attention to these ratios, among other factors, when choosing a club or freelance coach. Here are some best practices for coach-to-children ratios and what parents should consider:
Coach-to-Children Ratios:
Under 8 Years Old: For children under the age of 8, a general guideline is to maintain a ratio of at least 1 coach for every 6 to 8 children. Younger children require more individual attention and supervision.
Ages 8-12: For children aged 8 to 12, a ratio of 1 coach for every 10 to 12 children is often recommended. Coaches should still be able to provide individualised instruction as needed.
Teenagers (13+): Teenagers may require slightly larger groups, with a ratio of 1 coach for every 12 to 15 participants. However, it's important to consider the skill level and needs of the players.
What Parents Should Ensure:
Qualified Coaches: Parents should confirm that the club or freelance coach has appropriate coaching qualifications and certifications. Look for coaches who are affiliated with recognised governing bodies, like Basketball England, and have completed relevant coaching courses.
Safeguarding Checks: Ensure that coaches working with children have undergone the necessary background checks and hold valid DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) certificates or their equivalent in your country.
Safeguarding Policies: Check if the club or coach has clear safeguarding policies and procedures in place. Parents should ask about how safeguarding concerns are addressed and reported within the organization.
Emergency Procedures: Parents should inquire about the club's emergency procedures, including first aid and medical response plans. Coaches should be trained in basic first aid, and there should be access to necessary medical supplies.
Communication: Verify that the club or coach maintains open lines of communication with parents and guardians. Parents should be informed about schedules, changes, and any incidents involving their children promptly.
Behavioral Expectations: Understand the club's code of conduct for coaches, players, and parents. Ensure that these expectations align with your values and expectations for a positive and respectful environment.
Facility Safety: If sessions are held in a specific facility, check if the facility itself meets safety standards and has appropriate safety measures in place.
References and Reviews: Seek references or read reviews from other parents or participants who have experience with the club or coach. This can provide valuable insights into the quality of coaching and the safety of the environment.
Trial Sessions: Before committing, consider attending a trial session or observing a practice to assess the coach's teaching style, the organisation of sessions, and the general atmosphere.
Cost and Commitment: Understand the financial commitment and any obligations before signing up for a club or coach's services.
By following these best practices and ensuring that the coach-to-children ratios are appropriate for the age group, parents can help provide their children with a safe and enriching basketball experience. Effective communication and a focus on safety and quality coaching are key factors in making the right choice for a basketball club or coach.
What requirements do Club Coaches need for all ages and abilities to be licensed and able to coach in training sessions as well as competitions
Level 2 Coaching Qualification: To obtain a full coach license, coaches typically need to have completed the Basketball England Level 2 coaching qualification or its equivalent. This qualification includes both theoretical and practical components, covering various aspects of coaching basketball.
Safeguarding Training: Coaches are often required to complete safeguarding training and hold a valid safeguarding certificate. This training is essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of young athletes.
First Aid Certification: Many coaching licenses require coaches to hold a valid first aid certificate. This is crucial for handling injuries and medical emergencies during basketball sessions, especially if leading the session, or having a first aider in the room.
DBS Check: A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check or its equivalent background check is typically required to ensure that coaches are eligible to work with children and vulnerable individuals. This must be a fully enhanced DBS, with being able to work with Child Work Force on cert.
Coaching Experience: While not always mandatory, having coaching experience, especially at the grassroots level or with youth teams, can be beneficial in the application process.
Continuous Professional Development (CPD): Coaches may need to demonstrate ongoing professional development by attending coaching clinics, workshops, and courses to keep their coaching skills and knowledge up to date.
Membership: Coaches may need to be registered members of Basketball England or the relevant national basketball governing body.
Code of Conduct: Coaches are expected to adhere to a code of conduct that outlines their responsibilities and behavior as coaches.
Please remember that these requirements are subject to change, and Basketball England may have updated their licensing criteria since my last knowledge update in September 2021. Therefore, it's crucial to refer to the official Basketball England website or contact them directly for the most current information regarding coach licensing requirements. If you require any assistance getting your club or coaches to this level please email saba.youth.safeguarding@gmail.com today.
Note: Failure to meet these requirements will result in coaches not being able to take sessions or coach at competitions.
DBS certificates, First aid, and safeguarding certificates have expiry dates, please ensure you know your renewals, and keep them on record.
Parent Helpers and DBS requirements
It is important to ensure that parent helpers or volunteers who spend a significant amount of time with children in a club or organization have their Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks or equivalent background checks conducted. Here's why this is crucial:
1. Safeguarding and Child Protection: The primary reason for conducting DBS checks on parent helpers and volunteers is to safeguard the welfare and safety of children involved in the club. These checks help identify individuals with a history of criminal convictions, including offenses against children, which might pose a risk to the safety and well-being of children.
2. Legal and Regulatory Compliance: In many countries, including the UK, it is a legal requirement for organizations working with children to ensure that individuals who have regular contact with minors have undergone DBS checks. Failing to comply with these legal requirements can lead to legal consequences for the club and its organizers.
3. Trust and Reputation: Ensuring that all adults involved in a club's activities, including parent helpers and volunteers, have been vetted through DBS checks can enhance the trust and reputation of the club within the community. Parents and guardians are more likely to entrust their children to an organization that takes child protection seriously.
4. Peace of Mind: DBS checks provide peace of mind to parents and guardians. Knowing that all adults who interact with their children have undergone background checks helps alleviate concerns about their children's safety.
5. Consistency in Safeguarding Practices: Having consistent DBS checking procedures for all adults involved in the club, whether they are paid staff, volunteers, or parent helpers, ensures that the club maintains a high standard of safeguarding practices across the board.
6. Transparency: Conducting DBS checks on parent helpers and volunteers demonstrates transparency and a commitment to child protection. It sends a clear message that the club prioritizes the safety and welfare of its participants.
In some cases, the requirement for DBS checks may depend on the level of contact and responsibility an individual has with children within the club. If parent helpers or volunteers spend a significant amount of time with children, have unsupervised interactions, or are responsible for specific tasks related to the children's well-being (such as coaching or supervising), it is particularly important to conduct DBS checks.
It's important for clubs and organisations to establish clear guidelines and policies regarding DBS checks for all adults involved in their activities and to communicate these requirements to parents, volunteers, and staff. This proactive approach helps create a safer and more secure environment for all participants.
Photo/Video Consent for club system and social media
Obtaining photo consent for minors is an essential practice in today's digital age, especially when it comes to protecting the privacy and well-being of children. Photo consent ensures that images of minors are used responsibly and with the explicit permission of their parents or legal guardians. Here are some key reasons highlighting the importance of having photo consent for minors:
1. Protecting Privacy and Dignity:
Children have a right to privacy, just like adults. Photo consent allows parents and guardians to control how their child's image is used, preventing the dissemination of images that may infringe upon a child's privacy or dignity.
2. Ensuring Safety:
Sharing photos of minors, especially in public or online spaces, can inadvertently expose them to risks, including potential harm or exploitation. Photo consent helps in mitigating these risks by allowing parents to make informed decisions about where and how their child's image is used.
3. Consent and Control:
Photo consent grants parents and guardians the legal right to make decisions regarding their child's image. It ensures that individuals or organizations seeking to use a minor's photo must obtain explicit permission from the child's parent or guardian.
4. Preventing Misuse:
Without proper consent, images of minors may be used inappropriately, including for commercial purposes, social media, or in ways that could harm the child's reputation. Photo consent helps prevent such misuse.
5. Legal Compliance:
In many jurisdictions, using images of minors without consent may lead to legal issues. Having documented photo consent provides legal protection for all parties involved and ensures compliance with privacy and data protection laws.
6. Respect for the Child's Voice:
Photo consent also serves as an opportunity to involve minors in decision-making processes regarding their image. It encourages discussions with children about their preferences and choices.
7. Trust and Transparency:
When organizations, schools, or sports clubs obtain photo consent for minors, it builds trust with parents and guardians. It demonstrates transparency and a commitment to responsible and ethical practices.
8. Educational and Awareness Opportunities:
The process of seeking photo consent can be used as an educational opportunity to raise awareness among parents, guardians, and minors about the potential risks and benefits of sharing images in today's digital world.
9. Ethical Marketing and Promotion:
For organizations or clubs working with minors, having photo consent ensures that marketing and promotional materials are produced ethically, respecting the rights and privacy of children.
10. Prevention of Cyberbullying and Online Harassment:
Minors who have not given consent for their photos to be shared online may be at risk of cyberbullying or online harassment. Photo consent can help reduce this risk by allowing parents to control where their children's images are shared.
In conclusion, obtaining photo consent for minors is a crucial step in protecting their privacy, dignity, and safety in today's digital age. It empowers parents and guardians to make informed decisions regarding their child's image and helps organisations and individuals act responsibly and ethically when it comes to using photos of minors. Respecting photo consent is a fundamental aspect of ensuring that children are treated with the care and consideration they deserve.
Note: Failure to meet these requirements will result in coaches not being able to take sessions or coach at competitions.
DBS certificates, First aid, and safeguarding certificates have expiry dates, please ensure you know your renewals, and keep them on record.