Fordbridge Park Bowls Club Safeguarding Policy (Sept 2024)

Introduction

Fordbridge Park Bowls Club (FPBC) affiliates to Bowls England and has adopted their Safeguarding Policies and Guidelines.

Bowls England’s safeguarding function works in collaboration with The Bowls Development Alliance (BDA), The English Indoor Bowling Association (EIBA), English Short Mat Bowling Association (ESMBA), The British Crown Green Bowling Association (BCGBA), English Bowling Federation (EBF) and Disability Bowls England (DBE).

Overview:

At FPBC, all members, regardless of age, ability or disability, sex, race, religion, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, marital or gender status have the right to be protected from harm, abuse, and poor practice and to play bowls in an enjoyable and safe environment.

All members have a responsibility to safeguard and promote the welfare of all our members and to safeguard adults who are experiencing, or at risk of abuse, neglect, or exploitation.

All members are committed to creating and maintaining a safe and positive environment and an open, listening culture where people feel able to share concerns without fear of retribution. All members are responsible for reporting concerns to the Safeguarding Officer. All suspicions and allegations of abuse and poor practice will be taken seriously and responded to swiftly and appropriately.

The FPBC Safeguarding Policy will be available to all members, staff, volunteers and participants.

The Safeguarding Policy will be reviewed every three years by the FPBC Committee, and amended as appropriate.

FPBC has appointed a Safeguarding Officer (see below) who is the first point of contact to report any concerns. Details are available on the FPBC noticeboard and website. The FPBC SO job description can be accessed here (will be linked).