Safeguarding Policy

Policy Statement

As a triathlon coach working within the UK, I am committed to creating a safe, positive, and inclusive environment for all participants, particularly children, young people, and vulnerable adults. I acknowledge my responsibility to protect the welfare of everyone involved in the sport and to act appropriately when safeguarding concerns arise.

1. Purpose

This policy outlines how I will meet my safeguarding responsibilities and sets out the principles and procedures to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all individuals I coach.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all coaching activities involving:

·       - Children and young people under the age of 18

·       - Adults at risk (vulnerable adults)

·       - Any other individuals who may require safeguarding support

3. Legislation and Guidance

This policy aligns with:

·       - Children Act 1989 & 2004

·       - Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018)

·       - Care Act 2014 (for adults at risk)

·       - British Triathlon Federation’s Safeguarding Policies

·       - NSPCC CPSU Standards for Safeguarding in Sport

4. Principles

·       - The welfare of the child is paramount.

·       - All participants, regardless of age, gender, ability, race, religion, sexual orientation, or socio-economic background, have the right to protection from abuse and harm.

·       - Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility.

·       - All concerns will be taken seriously and responded to appropriately.

5. Roles and Responsibilities

As a triathlon coach, I will:

·       - Undertake safeguarding training (e.g. UK Coaching's Safeguarding and Protecting Children course).

·       - Hold an up-to-date enhanced DBS check.

·       - Adhere to the British Triathlon Code of Ethics and Conduct.

·       - Maintain appropriate professional boundaries at all times.

·       - Report concerns promptly using the appropriate channels.

6. Recognising Abuse

I understand the signs of:

·       - Physical abuse

·       - Emotional abuse

·       - Sexual abuse

·       - Neglect

·       - Bullying (including online/cyberbullying)

·       - Grooming or exploitation

7. Reporting Concerns

I will:

·       - Respond calmly and listen carefully if a disclosure is made.

·       - Record details factually and objectively.

·       - Report the concern to:

  • The British Triathlon Lead Safeguarding Officer

  • Children’s Social Care

  • Police, if immediate risk is present

In emergencies, I will contact 999.

8. Safe Coaching Practices

I will:

·       - Avoid one-to-one situations with children in isolated settings.

·       - Ensure sessions are appropriately supervised.

·       - Gain parental consent for training sessions for under-18s.

·       - Maintain professional language and tone in communications.

·       - Avoid private or inappropriate conversations.

·       - Ensure any transport arrangements are in line with safeguarding guidance.

9. Code of Conduct

I will:

·       - Treat all athletes with dignity and respect.

·       - Never use inappropriate language or engage in behaviour that could be considered abusive.

·       - Challenge poor practice and report any concerns.

10. Confidentiality and Data Protection

Information about safeguarding concerns will only be shared with those who need to know in order to protect the individual.

All records will be stored securely and handled in accordance with the UK GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018.

11. Use of Photography and Video

Photographs and videos may occasionally be captured during training sessions, events, or video analysis sessions for the following purposes:

  • Swim technique video analysis (for performance feedback and coaching)

  • Social media and website (to promote training, events, or athlete success stories)

To ensure safeguarding and data protection:

  • No photography or filming will take place without prior written consent.

  • Consent will be obtained through written permission or as part of video session sign-up.

  • Images of children will never be shared with names or personal information.

  • All media will be stored securely and used only for the stated purpose.

  • Individuals (or parents/guardians of under-18s) may withdraw consent at any time by contacting me directly.

12. Review and Monitoring

This policy will be reviewed annually or in light of any changes in legislation or safeguarding guidance.