Norfolk Hockey Association Child Protection Policy

The full text of our Child Protection Policy can be seen here...

SUMMARY:

This policy has been formally adopted by the Norfolk Hockey Association on 1st September 2004 and revised after 3 years in September 2007, in conjunction with and approval of Norfolk Sports Alliance [For whom it was approved by the Child Protection in Sport Unit (CPSU) of the National Society of the Prevention of Cruelty to Children and the Norfolk ACPC].

This document is supported by England Hockey.

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background to Norfolk Hockey Association

The Norfolk Hockey Association aims to represent and promote the interests of all hockey in the county; to develop plans to ensure the game of hockey prospers at all levels; to develop players, umpires and coaches, so that, where appropriate, they can achieve representative status; to manage and organise competitions, as required.

1.2 Why have a Policy?

Sport plays an invaluable part in the personal development of any young person, through the enjoyment and achievement that can and is achieved through sport. For these positive effects to take place it is the responsibility of the organising body to ensure that a safe and effective environment is sustained for sport to take place in (throughout this policy the organising body is the Norfolk Hockey Association [NHA]). All children and young people have a right to enjoy sport, free from all forms of abuse and exploitation. The welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults is paramount. The NHA through the delivery of activity has an obligation to ensure that when given the responsibility for young players, that coaches and volunteers provide them with the highest possible standards of care. The reality is that abuse has and does take place within sport and as deliverers and organisers we need to ensure that preventative steps are taken and that clear processes for reporting concerns are established. The close relationships that are formed between coaches and young players engaged in hockey activities also provide opportunities for abuse occurring outside sport to be recognised and acted upon. It is the responsibility of the Norfolk HA to support volunteers and ensure they are confident in the appropriate steps to take in the event of a child abuse incident. Norfolk Hockey Association is committed to providing safe activity for young people and has therefore made this policy mandatory, with best practice as guidelines, for: - Coaches (both paid and voluntary) - Norfolk Hockey Clubs (players and officials) - Officials of NHA. The Norfolk Hockey Association Policy will be reviewed every 3 years, or following any significant change in relevant legislation or in light of a significant incident.

If you have any concerns or questions about this policy or its implementation, please contact our Designated Child protection Officer - Sheila George in the first instance, details on the contact web pages. 

Page updated 11th September 2007