CAVAN REGIONAL HEALTH SPORT & LEISURE CLG
(KNOWN AS CRHSL CLG IN THIS DOCUMENT)
NOP – CHILD SAFETY
Children, because of their dependency and immaturity, are vulnerable to abuse in various forms. Parents or guardians have primary responsibility for the care and protection of their children. However, CRHSL CLG has a responsibility to ensure the protection and safeguarding of children participating in any Leisure Centre activities.
This policy extends to all staff and Contractors. All employees must be sensitive to the vulnerability of children during the course of their duties and act in a responsible manner at all times. It is recognised that most staff members do not have expertise in this area. It is important to note that the investigation of suspected child abuse is the responsibility of the statutory authorities i.e. Tusla, and shall not be undertaken by the Leisure Centre`s Designated Child Protection Liaison Officer(s).
The Policy & Procedures has been developed in accordance with government guidelines Children First Act 2015 and Children First National Guidelines 2017 for the Protection and Welfare of Children, a copy of which can be made available on request or can be found on the website of Tusla www.tusla.ie.
Further to the appointment of the Designated Child Protection Officer and the Deputy Designated Child Protection Officer a sub-committee was formed with representatives from each of the key strategic service areas within the centre. The purpose of this committee was to assist in the preparation of the Policy & Procedures taking cognisance of the particular responsibilities and activities of CRHSL CLG which involve the participation of children.
The Policy & Procedures are directed at all those who have contact with children in the normal course of their duties, to provide guidance on appropriate behaviour around children and what to do if physical, sexual or emotional and neglect abuse is suspected.
This Policy is not a legal interpretation of the legislation.
Child Protection Policy 2024
As part of our Safeguarding Policy we will:
- Promote and prioritise the safety and well-being of children and young people
- Ensure everyone understands their roles and responsibilities in respect of the safeguarding and is provide with appropriate learning to recognise, identify and respond to signs of abuse, neglect and other safeguarding concerns relating to children and young people.
- Ensure appropriate action is taken in the event of incidents/concerns of abuse and support provided to the individuals who raise or disclose the concern.
- Ensure that confidential, detailed and accurate records of all safeguarding concerns are maintained and securely stored.
- Prevent the employment/deployment of unsuitable individuals and maintain a safe recruitment and vetting policy.
- Ensure robust safeguarding arrangements and procedures are in operation.