The Association will make provision for children (defined as under 18 in The Children Act 1989) and vulnerable adults to ensure that:

• The welfare of the child is paramount.

• Vulnerable adults and all children, whatever their age, culture, disability, gender, language, racial origin, religious beliefs and/or sexual identity have the right to protection from abuse.

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

• All Officers, Selectors and Team Managers all of whom shall be Criminal Records Bureau Accredited shall be responsible to report concerns to the Safeguarding Officer.

The Association has a duty of care to safeguard all children and vulnerable adults involved in Crown Green Bowls from harm. All children and vulnerable adults have a right to protection, and the needs of disabled children and others who may be particularly vulnerable must be taken into account. The Association will ensure the safety and protection of all vulnerable persons involved in Association controlled events through adherence to the Child and Vulnerable Adults Protection Guidelines adopted by the Association.

The aim of the Policy is to promote good practice:

• Providing children and vulnerable people with appropriate safety and protection whilst in the care of the Association.

• Allow all Officers, Selectors and Team Managers to make informed and confident responses to specific child protection issues.

The Association will use its best endeavours to ensure that:

• All allegations of abuse are taken seriously by the Management Committee.

• The response to all allegations is swift and appropriate.

• The effectiveness of the Policy is reviewed annually.

• A Safeguarding Officer shall be appointed to whom Members can address any concerns

• For further reference go to www.bcgba.org.uk