Child Protection Policy

Merthyr Tydfil Golf Club has considered its responsibilities to children participating in golf at our premises and within our club and has produced this Child Protection Policy underpinning procedures in order to set out the standards we wish to uphold in providing activities for children and safeguarding the welfare of children in our care. 

The Golf Club is affiliated to the Golf Union of Wales and recognises its policies regarding Safeguarding Children in Golf. 

1. Policy Statement

Merthyr Tydfil Golf Club acknowledges its duty of care to safeguard the welfare of all children (defined as those under 18) involved in golf within the club. All children have a right to protection, and have their particular needs taken into account.

The Club will endeavour to ensure the safety and protection of all children involved with the club through these Child Protection guidelines. It is the responsibility of all adults within the club to assist the committee in this endeavour.

2. Policy Aims

• To provide children with appropriate safety and protection whilst in the care of the club and also help them to enjoy their experience of the sport.

• To reassure parents that their children will receive the best practicable care possible whilst participating in activities within the club.

• To provide support to staff and volunteers to make informed and confident responses to specific child protection issues and to fulfil their role effectively.  

3. Principles

• The welfare of children is paramount.

• All children, whatever their age, culture, disability, gender, language, ethnic origin and religious beliefs have the right to protection from abuse.

• All suspicions and allegations of abuse and poor practice will be taken seriously and responded to swiftly and appropriately.

• All staff, volunteers working in golf, and all members have a responsibility to report any concerns to the the club Secretary. 

• Staff, volunteers, coaches, referees and members will be supported to understand their role and responsibility with regard to the duty of care and protection  of children and young people. 

• Individuals will receive support through education and training to be aware of and understand best practice and how to manage any welfare or child protection issues

   that may come to light.  

4. Responsibilities and Communication 

• This Child Protection Policy will be  available to all members, parents, staff,  volunteers and participants.

• The Policy will be reviewed every three years by the Club Committee, and amended as appropriate. Guidance from golf’s governing bodies will be sought as part of the review process. 

• The Club Committee has responsibility for ensuring that the policy and procedures are implemented, including taking any appropriate disciplinary action necessary. 

• The Club Secretary has responsibility for responding to any allegations, concerns or child protection incidents, gathering information and reporting his findings to the Club committee.

• Parents have a responsibility to work together with the club in implementing procedures and providing their children with the necessary information to safeguard themselves.

The Golf Club will work in partnership with parents to review and implement child protection and welfare procedures. The Policy and procedures are based on the above principles and UK and international legislation and government guidance and take the following into consideration:

• The Children Act 1989 and 2004.
• The Data Protection Act 1994 & 1998.
• The Police Act 1997.
• The Human Rights Act 1998.
• The Protection of Children Act 1999.
• Caring for the young and vulnerable - Home Office Guidance for preventing the
• abuse of trust 1999.
• The Criminal Justice and Court Services Act 2000.
• The Licensing Act 2003
• What to do if you are worried a child is being abused 2005.
• Working Together to Safeguard Children 2006.
• The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.

Any subsequent legislation relating to child protection would implicitly be incorporated into this document.