BEF Child Safeguarding Policy

2022 - 2024

SAFEGUARDING CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE

PUTTING CHILD SAFEGUARDING AT THE HEART OF OUR ORGANISATION

KEITH ODDY KO CHILD PROTECTION SERVICES LTD | BRITISH EQUESTRIAN

INTRODUCTION

Purpose As a Federation we put the wellbeing and safety of children and young people at the heart of what we do. We accept our moral and legal obligations; we will do the right thing to deliver an environment and culture in which children and young people can enjoy, learn, and grow.

British Equestrians safeguarding policy aims to provide the framework to help all those involved in our sport. To understand what they need to do and what they can expect of one another to safeguard children and young people.

We have a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of discrimination, abuse, harassment, violence, and exploitation of children. We do not accept any behavior that breaches this policy. All staff, representatives, and partner organisations have an obligation to have read the policy and to share the basic philosophy and follow the requirements defined within it. We want children and young people to hear our message loud and clear, we want them to ‘feel safe and be safe’.

British Equestrian places the highest priority on the safety and enjoyment of children participating in equestrian sport and is committed to promoting the highest possible standard of care across the whole federation. It therefore aims to ensure that all children, regardless of ability or disability, gender, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation or socio-economic background. Have a positive and enjoyable experience of our sport in a safe and child-centered environment.

Scope Safeguarding is everybody's responsibility.

This Policy and all associated policies and procedures apply to;

•

The BEF and its Member Bodies. Each Member Body shall ensure that it formally adopts the BEF safeguarding policies, procedures, and guidelines with objective of achieving consistency of policy and approach across all members.

•

All volunteers, employees, athletes, spectators and anyone else involved with the Federation, irrespective of whether they are members of the Federation or one of its Member organisations.

Contact: T: 02475 313437 | E: safeguarding@bef.co.uk

INTRODUCTION

Definitions Child: oAnyone under the age of 18

Safeguarding: oProcess used to protect a child from abuse, harassment or maltreatment, preventing harm to their health or development. oTo provision safe and effective care and enabling best practice

Child protection: oPart of the safeguarding process focused on protecting individual children identified as suffering or likely to suffer significant harm.

Child Abuse: oPhysical, sexual, emotional harm or neglect caused intentionally or recklessly to a child; in person, by phone or online. Behaviours can include... o Physical abuse, psychological abuse, harassment, hazing o Sexual harassment, sexual abuse o Neglect

Non-safeguarding ‘Forbidden conduct’ excludes professionally accepted coaching methods within equestrian for skill enhancement, physical conditioning, team building, appropriate discipline, or techniques used to improve athlete performance.

Contact: T: 02475 313437 | E: safeguarding@bef.co.uk

ABUSE AND HARASSMENT:

‘Forbidden conduct’: “Safeguarding is everybody's responsibility.

Any ‘Forbidden Behaviours’ must be reported as directed”.

PHYSICAL ABUSE RAISING CONCERNS

Any deliberate and unwelcome act – such as punching, beating, kicking, biting and burning – causing physical trauma or injury. Can also consist of forced or inappropriate physical activity (e.g., inappropriate age or physique training loads; when injured or in pain) etc.

Safeguarding Officers British Equestrian Safeguarding Team

PSYCHOLOGICAL ABUSE A pattern of deliberate, prolonged, repeated non-contact behaviours within a power differentiated relationship. Persistent emotional maltreatment of a child such as may cause severe and ongoing effects on the child's emotional development. Repeated inappropriate mention around body image, of food intake / weight / weighing.

DOCUMEMTS Policies Code of conduct Keeping records

HARRASSMENT

TOGETHER

HAZING

In partnership with clubs, safeguarding officers, and British Equestrian.

Any acts of hazing, neglect, psychological abuse, repeated physical abuse, and sexual harassment. Includes demeaning / humiliating or discriminatory comments or behaviour towards a child. May occur in combination or in isolation, directly or indirectly.

Any intentional action or situation created that causes embarrassment, harassment or ridicule, and risks emotional, physical or sexual harm to a child, regardless of the individual’s willingness to participate.

Contact: T: 02475 313437 | E: safeguarding@bef.co.uk

‘Forbidden conduct’ continued: SEXUAL HARRASSMENT RAISING CONCERNS Discuss with your trained Welfare Officer

DOCUMENTS Look through policy for additional support Keep a record.

Any verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature which is unwelcome.

Sexual Harassment includes sexual advances, requests for sexual favours, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly. Sexual Harassment may take the form of Sexual Abuse.

SEXUAL ABUSE Any conduct of sexual nature, whether non-contact, contact or penetrative, where consent is coerced/manipulated or is not or cannot be given. The activities may include but are not limited to assault by penetration (for example, rape or oral sex) or non-penetrative acts such as masturbation, kissing, rubbing and touching outside of clothing.

Sexual Abuse may also include non-contact activities, such as involving individuals in looking at, or in the production of, sexual images, watching sexual activities, encouraging to behave in sexually inappropriate ways, or grooming a person in preparation for abuse (including through the internet or on mobile devices).

NEGLECT TOGETHER Working in partnerships with clubs, welfare officers, and British Equestrian.

The failure of an individual with a duty of care towards a child to provide a minimum level of care to that child which is causing harm, encouraging harm, allowing harm to be caused, or creating imminent danger of harm. Concealment of any safeguarding concerns (failing to refer). Forced training in unsafe training venues/equipment; failure to allow adequate fluids etc.

Contact: T: 02475 313437 | E: safeguarding@bef.co.uk

OUR SAFEGUARDING FRAMEWORK

o o o o o

Policies People Procedures Practices Complaints

Operations

Environment

o Physical o Online o Equestrian Communities o Diversity

Culture

o Leadership o Governance o Empowerment

o Values / behaviours o Education / training o Continuous improvement

Contact: T: 02475 313437 | E: safeguarding@bef.co.uk

ROLES OF THE BRITISH EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION AND MEMBER BODIES The British Equestrian Federation (BEF) and its Member Bodies (together referred to as the Federation) recognise that each organisation within the Federation, working both individually and collectively, has a role to play in ensuring children and young adults are protected from harm, abuse and degrading treatment whilst participating in equestrian sports and associated activities.

The BEF works in partnership with its Member Bodies being committed to ensure:

Welfare is paramount oThe welfare of children and young people is paramount and children have the right to protection from abuse.

We act to protect children oIt takes all reasonable, practical steps to protect children and young people from harm, discrimination and degrading treatment and to respect their rights, wishes and feelings.

We respond to concerns oAll concerns and allegations of poor practice or abuse are taken seriously and responded to swiftly and appropriately.

Contact: T: 02475 313437 | E: safeguarding@bef.co.uk

ROLES OF THE BRITISH EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION AND MEMBER BODIES Safely recruited and trained oAll employees and volunteers within the Federation are carefully selected, informed about their responsibilities and provided with guidance and training on safeguarding policies and procedures.

High standards of practice

oHigh standards of behaviour and practice are maintained through compliance with policies, procedures and guidance All accept responsibility oEveryone knows and accepts their responsibilities and works together: parents, riders, coaches, proprietors, volunteers, and professional staff.

Commitment The BEF will provide leadership on safeguarding policy and practice for the Federation, providing advice and guidance and promoting best practice. This is aided by coordinating a development group, the Safeguarding Action Team (SAT).

Contact: T: 02475 313437 | E: safeguarding@bef.co.uk

BRITISH EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION FUNCTIONS The BEF also facilitates the Federation wide Case Management Group (CMG) whose role is to: Provide support, advice and consultation; Provide Case Management Support; Give guidance on best practice

BRITISH EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION TEAM The BEF employs a Safeguarding Officer who leads on policy, procedures and provides support and guidance for the Member Bodies within the Federation, an Independent Safeguarding Officer, both reporting to the Head of Integrity and HR. There is also a Board Safeguarding Champion to; Promote the highest standards of safeguarding & child protection and safeguarding adults at risk in sport at BEF Board level and throughout the BEF. Provide high level strategic insight and expertise within the area of safeguarding and child protection; Act as an advocate for and help to promote and encourage best practice across the Federation.

Contact: T: 02475 313437 | E: safeguarding@bef.co.uk

RESPONSIBILITIES Member Bodies

Adopt BEF Policies

Manage internal concerns

Resource safeguarding

Own members adopt BEF policies

Refer any safeguarding concerns appropriately

Promote education and training

Monitor implementation

Contact: T: 02475 313437 | E: safeguarding@bef.co.uk

RESPONSIBILITIES C o a c h e s a n d Tr a i n e r s

Adhere to 'Position of Trust' responsibilities and never use position inappropriately Treat everyone with respect; challenge poor behaviour

Adopt the highest ethical training and selection

Adhere to the Safeguarding Policy

Refer any safeguarding concerns appropriately

Keep qualifications up to date

Put wellbeing of the child before performance

Contact: T: 02475 313437 | E: safeguarding@bef.co.uk

DEALING WITH A DISCLOSURE / CONCERN S A F E G U A R D I N G I S E V E R Y O N E ’ S R E S P O N S I B I L I T Y: N O T R ES PON DI NG TO A S AF EG UARDI NG CONC ERN IS NOT AN OPTION. All those involved in equestrian sport must recognise their own responsibility to safeguard children and young people and the importance of taking action where a concern about a child or young person has been raised.

The rights of the child are of primary importance. Every effort must be made to protect the rights of the child in any investigation. The safety and security of the child come first.

It is not the responsibility of anyone working with the BEF or Member Bodies to make a judgement on whether or not child abuse has taken place; however, there is a responsibility to act on any concerns that are raised.

OBLIGATION TO REPORT

All those working with children in voluntary or paid affiliated roles have the obligation to report to their Member Bodies / BEF, any act or behaviour that may objectively be considered Forbidden Conduct. Failure to report under these Rules may result in consequences under the Member Body or BEF Safeguarding provisions.

Contact: T: 02475 313437 | E: safeguarding@bef.co.uk

DEALING WITH A DISCLOSURE / CONCERN

Those working in the equine industry may find themselves in a position where a child makes a disclosure of harm or abuse and if this happens it is important that the appropriate action is taken. All Member Bodies and those involved with them are expected to adhere to the following procedures if a child discloses that they have been abused, or this is suspected;

When information about possible abuse comes to light, find time and a suitable place to listen to the child.

Listen to what is being said without displaying shock, disbelief or attempting to lead the child.

Do not make false promises and do not promise confidentiality. If the child asks that information is kept secret, it is important that you tell the child in a manner appropriate to the child’s age that you cannot promise complete confidentiality— instead you must explain that you may need to pass information on to other professionals to help keep the child, or other children, safe.

Allow the child to talk freely. Do not cross examine, interview, probe or ask to see any injury that is not visible. Listen, only asking non-leading questions when necessary to clarify.

Do not criticise the alleged perpetrator, NOR INFORM THEM.

Contact: T: 02475 313437 | E: safeguarding@bef.co.uk

DEALING WITH A DISCLOSURE / CONCERN

Reassure the child that what has happened is not his/her fault.

Stress that it was the right thing to tell someone.

Explain what has to be done next and who has to be told.

Find out just enough to be sure of the need to refer, and keep any questions open (e.g. requiring information) rather than closed (e.g only requiring a yes or no answer).

Make records that are factual, accurate and relevant and avoid subjective judgements. It is not your responsibility to 'check out' what any child tells you nor should any abuser be questioned.

Print, sign and date the record of disclosure and include your job role.

Contact: T: 02475 313437 | E: safeguarding@bef.co.uk

DEALING WITH A DISCLOSURE / CONCERN It is important that each Member Bodies reporting procedures are followed when reporting safeguarding concerns.

RECORDS AND CONFIDENTIALITY When recording a disclosure, it is important that the information is clear, concise and a true representation of the concerns. In some incidents, it may be necessary to share information with Children’s Social Care or the police, hence the necessity for making detailed records at the time of the disclosure.

Information should be factual and should include the following: • • • • • • • • •

The facts about the allegation or observation.

A description of any visible injuries or signs.

The child’s account, if this has been disclosed, of what has happened and how any injuries occurred.

Any witnesses to the incident(s).

Any times, dates or other relevant information A clear distinction between what is fact, opinion or hearsay.

A record of any non-verbal behaviours Action taken as a result of the concern The name, address and date of birth of those involved.

Contact: T: 02475 313437 | E: safeguarding@bef.co.uk

DEALING WITH A DISCLOSURE / CONCERN It is important that each Member Bodies reporting procedures are followed when reporting safeguarding concerns.

This record should be shared with the Member Body immediately.

For guidance on how long to keep records please see Guidance on Retention and Storage of Child Protection Records which can be found on the BEF website.

Informing parents/carers Wherever possible, personnel concerned about the welfare of a child should work in partnership with parents/carers. Therefore, in most situations, it would be important to talk to parents/carers to help clarify any initial concerns (e.g. if a child’s behaviour has changed, it is important to check whether there is a reasonable explanation such as family upset or bereavement).

However, there are circumstances in which a young person might be placed at even greater risk if concerns are shared (e.g. where a parent/carer may be responsible for the abuse or not able to respond to the situation appropriately). In these situations or where concerns still exist, seek advice before informing the parent/carer. Any suspicion, allegation or incident of abuse must be reported to the designated Lead Safeguarding Officer and BEF Safeguarding Officer as soon as possible.

Contact: T: 02475 313437 | E: safeguarding@bef.co.uk

SUPPORT FOR ALL INVOLVED It is important to acknowledge that, in matters relating to any Child Protection incidents, it can be distressing for all involved. It is, therefo re, important to be aware of so urces of support and help that may be available in this situation.

The fo llowing organisatio ns may be able to provide support: Child Protection in Sport Unit (CPSU) www.thecpsu.org.uk

T: 0116 366 5590 Email: cpsu@nspcc.org.uk Website:

NSPCC Helpline T: 0808 800 5000 Email: help@nspcc.org.uk Website: www.nspcc.org.uk Online reporting: www.nspcc.org.uk/what-you-can- do/report-abuse/report-abuse-online ChildLine T:: 0800 1111 Email: www.childline.org.uk/registration Website: www.childline.org.uk 1:2:1 chat: www.childline.org.uk/get-support/1-2-1- counsellor-chat The Samaritans T: 116 123 Email: jo@samaritans.org Website: www.samaritans.org Victim Support T: 0808 1689 111 Email: www.victimsupport.org.uk/help-and- support/get-help/supportline/email-supportline Website: www.victimsupport.org.uk Online support: www.victimsupport.org.uk/help-and- support/get-help/request-support CEOP – Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre T: 0870 000 3344 Email: communication@nca.x.gsi.gov.uk Website: www.ceop.police.uk Online reporting: www.ceop.police.uk/safety-centre Self Help

Website: www.self-help.org.uk

Kidscape

T: 020 7730 3300 Email: info@kidscape.org.uk Website: www.kidscape.org.uk

Family Lives

T: 0808 800 2222 Website: www.familylives.org.uk

Contact: T: 02475 313437 | E: safeguarding@bef.co.uk

CONTACTS

British Equestrian Safeguarding Team Tel: 02475 313437

British Equestrian Safeguarding Team Email: safeguarding@bef.co.uk

https://www.britishequestrian.org.uk/ge tInvolved/safeguarding/what-issafeguarding

Contact: T: 02475 313437 | E: safeguarding@bef.co.uk

Contact: T: 02475 313437 | E: safeguarding@bef.co.uk