Contents

Section 1                                Forward

Section 2                                Good Practice Guidelines

Section 3                                Child & Vulnerable Adult Protection Policy

Section 4                                Rehabilitation of Offenders Policy

Section 5                                Safe & Secure Handling Policy

Section 6                                Definition of Terms

Section 7                                Useful Contacts

Section 8                                Application forms

Forward

Scottish Women’s Football is aware that the role of the volunteer in football has never been more important.  It is a position, particularly in the mind of a young player, which has considerable prestige, authority and status.  In particular the coach can have a massive influence in determining the behaviour of youngsters and in an effort to help young players aspire to their full potential, a bond between the coach and player is important.  This relationship should be built on mutual admiration, respect and trust.  However where trust is given, there exists the potential for the abuse of power by a coach.

This policy details the correct procedures for dealing with allegations received regarding abuse of all types.  It also aims to set out procedures to educate volunteers of the requirement to be aware at all times of their behaviour and the behaviour of others, and sets out guidelines to adopt for best practice when dealing with youth and vulnerable adults.

All clubs are requested to adopt and use these procedures to ensure a safe environment for the development of the young player.

Any questions or issues arising from this policy should be addressed to Maureen McGonigle, Scottish Women’s Football, Hampden Park, Glasgow G42 9DF.

Introduction

Child abuse, particularly sexual abuse, can arouse strong emotions in those facing such a situation. It is important to understand these feelings and not allow them to interfere with your judgement about any action to take.

Abuse can occur within many situations including the home, school and the sporting environment. Some individuals will actively seek employment or voluntary work with young people in order to harm them. A coach, instructor, teacher, official or volunteer may have regular contact with young people and be an important link in identifying cases where a young person needs protection.

All suspicious cases of poor practice should be reported following the guidelines in this document. When a child enters the club having been subjected to child abuse outside the sporting environment, sport can play a crucial role in improving the child’s self esteem. In such instances the club must work with the appropriate agencies to ensure the child receives the required support.

Section 2 - Good Practice Guidelines

All personnel should be encouraged to demonstrate exemplary behaviour in order to protect themselves from false allegations. The following are common sense examples of how to create a positive culture and climate within Scottish Women’s Football:

Good practice means:

·        always working in an open environment (e.g. avoiding private or unobserved situations and encouraging an open environment i.e. no secrets).

·        treating all young people/disabled adults equally, and with respect and dignity.

• always putting the welfare of each young person first, before winning or achieving goals.
• maintaining a safe and appropriate distance with players (e.g. it is not appropriate to have an intimate relationship with a child or to share a room with them).
• building balanced relationships based on mutual trust which empowers children to share in the decision-making process;
• making sport fun, enjoyable and promoting fair play.
• ensuring that if any form of manual/physical support is required, it should be provided openly and according to guidelines provided by the Coach Education Programme. Care is needed, as it is difficult to maintain hand positions when the child is constantly moving. Young people should always be consulted and their agreement gained. Some parents are becoming increasingly sensitive about manual support and their views should always be carefully considered.
• keeping up to date with the technical skills, qualifications and insurance in sport.
• involving parents/carers wherever possible (e.g. for the responsibility of their children in the changing rooms). If groups have to be supervised in the changing rooms, always ensure parents/teachers/coaches/officials work in pairs.
• ensuring that if mixed teams are taken away, they should always be accompanied by a male and female member of staff. (NB however, same gender abuse can also occur)
• ensuring that at tournaments or residential events, adults should not enter children’s rooms or invite children into their rooms.
• being an excellent role model – this includes not smoking or drinking alcohol in the company of young people.
• giving enthusiastic and constructive feedback rather than negative criticism.
• recognising the developmental needs and capacity of young people and disabled adults – avoiding excessive training or competition and not pushing them against their will.
• securing parental consent in writing to act in loco parentis, if the need arises to give permission for the administration of emergency first aid and/or other medical treatment.
• keeping a written record of any injury that occurs, along with the details of any treatment given.
• requesting written parental consent if club officials are required to transport young people in their cars.

Practice to be avoided

The following should be avoided except in emergencies. If cases arise where these situations are unavoidable they should only occur with the full knowledge and consent of someone in charge in the club or the child’s parents. For example, a child sustains an injury and needs to go to hospital, or a parent fails to arrive to pick a child up at the end of a session:

• Avoid spending excessive amounts of time alone with children away from others;
• Avoid taking children to your home where they will be alone with you.

Practice never to be sanctioned

The following should never be sanctioned. You should never:

• engage in rough, physical or sexually provocative games, including horseplay;
• share a room with a child;
• allow or engage in any form of inappropriate touching;
• allow children to use inappropriate language unchallenged;
• make sexually suggestive comments to a child, even in fun;
• reduce a child to tears as a form of control;
• allow allegations made by a child to go unchallenged, unrecorded or not acted upon;
• do things of a personal nature for children or disabled adults, that they can do for themselves;
• invite or allow children to stay with you at your home unsupervised.

NB. It may sometimes be necessary for staff or volunteers to do things of a personal nature for children, particularly if they are young or are disabled. These tasks should only be carried out with the full understanding and consent of parents and the players involved. There is a need to be responsive to a person’s reactions. If a person is fully dependent on you, talk with him/her about what you are doing and give choices where possible. This is particularly so if you are involved in any dressing or undressing of outer clothing, or where there is physical contact, lifting or assisting a child to carry out particular activities. Avoid taking on the responsibility for tasks for which you are not appropriately trained.

If any of the following occur you should report this immediately to another colleague and record the incident. You should also ensure the parents of the child are informed.

• if you accidentally hurt a player.
• if she seems distressed in any manner.
• if a player appears to be sexually aroused by your actions.
• if a player misunderstands or misinterprets something you have done.

Guidelines for Use of Photographic Filming Equipment at Sporting Events

There is evidence that some people have used sporting events as an opportunity to take inappropriate photographs or film footage of young and disabled sportspeople in vulnerable positions. It is advisable that all clubs be vigilant with any concerns to be reported to the Club Child Protection Officer.

Videoing as a coaching aid: there is no intention to prevent club coaches and teachers using video equipment as a legitimate coaching aid. However, performers and their parents/carers should be aware that this is part of the coaching programme and care should be taken in the storing of such films.

Recruitment and selecting staff and volunteers

Scottish Women’s Football recognises that anyone may have the potential to abuse children in some way and that all reasonable steps are taken to ensure unsuitable people are prevented from working with children. When undertaking pre-selection checks the following should be included:

• All volunteers /staff should complete an application form. The application form will elect information regarding an applicants past and a self disclosure about any criminal record.   Please refer to 1 Recruitment, point 1.2&1.3 for clarification.
• Consent should be obtained from an applicant to seek information from the Criminal Records Bureau.
• Two confidential references, including one regarding previous work with children. These references must be taken up and confirmed through telephone contact.
• Evidence of identity (Passport or driving licence with Photo).

Responding to suspicions or allegations

It is not the responsibility of anyone working in Scottish Women’s Football, in a paid or unpaid capacity to take responsibility or to decide whether or not child abuse has taken place. However there is a responsibility to act on any concerns through contact with the appropriate authorities.

Scottish Women’s Football will assure all staff/volunteers that it will fully support and protect anyone, who in good faith reports his or her concern that a colleague is, or may be, abusing a child.

Where there is a complaint against a member of staff there may be three types of investigation, after an initial assessment by Scottish Women’s Football Child Protection Officer

• A criminal investigation,
• A child protection investigation,
• A disciplinary or misconduct investigation, as per SWF guidelines.

The results of the police and child protection investigation may well influence the disciplinary investigation, but not necessarily.

Action if there are concerns

The following action should be taken if there are concerns

Poor Practice

If, following consideration, the allegation is clearly about poor practice; the Club Child Protection Officer will deal with it as a misconduct issue.

• If the allegation is about poor practice by the Club Child Protection Officer, or if the matter has been handled inadequately and concerns remain, it should be reported to the relevant Scottish Women’s Football officer who will decide how to deal with the allegation and whether or not to initiate disciplinary proceedings.

What to do if there are concerns

Information passed to the social services or the police must be as helpful as possible, hence the necessity for making a detailed record at the time of the disclosure/concern. Information passed to the social services or the police must be as helpful as possible, hence the necessity for making a detailed record at the time of the disclosure/concern. Information should include the following:

• Name of child
• Age of child and date of birth
• Home address and telephone number
• Is the person making the report expressing their own concerns or those of someone else
• What is the nature of the allegation? Include dates, times, any special factors and other relevant information.
• Make a clear distinction between what is fact, opinion or hearsay.
• A description of any visible bruising or other injuries. Behavioural signs indirect signs?
• Witnesses to the incidents.
• The child’s account, if it can be given, of what has happened and how any bruising or other injuries occurred.
• Have the parents been contacted?
• If so what has been said?
• Has anyone else been consulted? If so record details.
• If it is not the child making the report has the child concerned been spoken to? If so what was said?

Has anyone been alleged to be the abuser? Record details.

Having carried out the steps above and assessed the situation, should the complaint warrant, the following should be undertaken.

Suspected Abuse

Any suspicion that a child has been abused by either a member of staff or a volunteer should be reported, in the first instance, to the Club Child Protection Officer, who will take such steps as considered necessary to ensure the safety of the child in question and any other child who may be at risk.

The Club Child Protection Officer should also notify the relevant SWF Child Protection Officer who will progress the report, and in turn will inform the Scottish Women’s Football Child Protection Committee who will deal with any media enquiries.

If the Club Child Protection Officer is the subject of the suspicion/allegation, the report must be made direct to the Scottish Women’s Football Child Protection Officer who will refer the allegation to Social Services.

The SWF Child Protection Officer may take the following actions:-

• Contact the parents or carers of the child as soon as possible following advice from the social services department.
• Refer the allegation to the social services department who may involve the police, or go directly to the police if out-of-hours.

Confidentiality

Every effort should be made to ensure that confidentiality is maintained for all concerned.  Information should be handled and disseminated on a need to know basis only which may include the following people:

• The Club Child Protection Officer;
• The parents of the person who is alleged to have been abused;
• The person making the allegation;
• Social services/police;
• Scottish Women’s Football Child Protection Officer;
• The alleged abuser (and parents if the alleged abuser is a child). *

*Seek social services advice on who should approach alleged abuser.

Information should be stored in a secure place with limited access to designated people, in line with data protection laws (e.g. that information is accurate, regularly updated, relevant and secure).

Internal Enquiries and Suspension

The Scottish Women’s Football Child Protection Officer will make an immediate decision about whether any individual accused of abuse should be temporarily suspended pending further police and social services inquiries.

• Irrespective of the findings of the social services or police inquiries the Scottish Women’s Football Disciplinary Committee will assess all individual cases to decide whether a member of staff or volunteer can be reinstated and how this can be sensitively handled. This may be a difficult decision; particularly where there is insufficient evidence to uphold any action by the police. In such cases, the Scottish Women’s Football Disciplinary Committee must reach a decision based upon the available information which could suggest that on a balance of probability, it is more likely than not that the allegation is true. The welfare of children should always remain paramount.

Support to Deal with the Aftermath

Consideration should be given about what support may be appropriate to children, parents and members of staff. Use of Helplines, support groups and open meetings will maintain an open culture and help the healing process. The British Association of Counselling Directory (The British Association for Counselling Directory is available from The British Association for Counselling, 1 Regent Place, Rugby CV21 2PJ, Tel: 01788 550899, Fax: 01788 562189, E-mail: bac@bac.co.uk, Internet: www.bac.co.uk) may be a useful resource.

Consideration should be given about what support may be appropriate to the alleged perpetrator of the abuse.

Allegations of Previous Abuse

Allegations of abuse may be made some time after the event (e.g. by an adult who was abused as a child or by a member of staff who is still currently working with children). Where such an allegation is made, the club should follow the procedures as detailed above and report the matter to the social services or the police. This is because other children, either within or outside sport, may be at risk from this person.
 

Action if Bullying is suspected

The same procedure should be followed as set out in the Section relating to responding to suspicions or allegations, if bullying is suspected. All settings in which children are provided with services or are living away from home should have rigorously enforced anti-bullying strategies in place.

Action to Help the Victim and Prevent Bullying in Sport:

·        Take all signs of bullying very seriously.

·        Encourage all children to speak and share their concerns (It is believed that up to 12 children per year commit suicide as a result of bullying, so if anyone talks about or threatens suicide, seek professional help immediately). Help the victim to speak out and tell the person in charge or someone in authority. Create an open environment.

·        Investigate all allegations and take action to ensure the victim is safe. Speak with the victim and the bully(ies) separately.

• Reassure the victim that you can be trusted and will help them, although you cannot promise to tell no one else.
• Keep records of what is said (what happened, by whom, when).
• Report any concerns to the Club Child Protection Officer or the school (wherever the bullying is occurring).

Action towards the Bully(ies):

• Talk with the bully(ies), explain the situation, and try to get the bully (ies) to understand the consequences of their behaviour. Seek an apology to the victim(s).
• Inform the bully’s parents.
• Insist on the return of borrowed items and that the bully(ies) compensate the victim.
• Provide support for the coach of the victim.
• Impose sanctions as necessary.
• Encourage and support the bully(ies) to change behaviour.
• Hold meetings with the families to report on progress.
• Inform all organisation members of action taken.
• Keep a written record of action taken.

A Quick Guide to Procedures

This guide is designed to inform the most appropriate action in relation to concerns about either a parent or carer (e.g. outside the immediate sporting environment).

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Remember:

• Maintain confidentiality on a need to know basis only.
• Ensure the Club Child Protection Officer follows up with social services.
• The Club Child Protection Officer should also report the incident to the Scottish Women’s Football Child Protection Officer who should ascertain whether or not the person/s involved in the incident play a role in Scottish Women’s Football and act accordingly.

This guide is designed to inform the most appropriate action in relation to concerns about a member of staff or volunteer within Scottish Women’s Football

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If you do not know who to turn to for advice or are worried about sharing your concerns with a senior colleague, you should contact the Social Services direct (or the NSPCC on 0808 800 5000, or Childline on 0800 111)

Section 3 - Child and Vulnerable Adult Protection Policy

Responsibilities

Scottish Women’s Football will:

·        Promote the health and welfare of children and vulnerable adults by providing opportunities for them to take part in football safely. Respect and promote the rights, wishes and feelings of children and vulnerable adults.

• Promote and implement appropriate procedures to safeguard the well being of children and vulnerable adults and protect them from abuse.
• Recruit, train, support and supervise its members to adopt best practice to safeguard and protect children and vulnerable adults from abuse and to minimise risk to themselves.
• Require members to adopt and abide by this Child and Vulnerable Adult Protection Policy and these Procedures.
• Respond to any allegations of misconduct or abuse of children or vulnerable adults in line with this Policy and these Procedures as well as implementing, where appropriate, the relevant disciplinary and appeals procedures.
• Review and evaluate this Policy and these Procedures on a regular basis.

Principles

The welfare of children and vulnerable adults is everyone’s responsibility, particularly when it comes to protecting them from abuse.

Children and vulnerable adults have a lot to gain from sport. Their natural sense of fun and spontaneity can blossom in a positive environment created by sports organisations. It provides an excellent opportunity for them to learn new skills, become more confident and maximise their own unique potential. This Policy and these Procedures are based on the following principles:

• The welfare of children and vulnerable adults is the primary concern.
• All children and vulnerable adults, whatever their age, culture, disability, gender, language, racial origin, socio-economic status, religious belief and/or sexual identity have the right to protection from abuse.
• It is everyone's responsibility to report any concerns about abuse and the responsibility of the Social Work Department and the Police to conduct, where appropriate, a joint investigation.
• All incidents of alleged poor practice, misconduct and abuse will be taken seriously and responded to swiftly and appropriately.
• All personal data will be processed in accordance with the requirements of the Data Protection Act 1998 and The Code of Practice as published by the Scottish ministers under section 122(1) of the Police Act 1997.

Review

This Policy and these Procedures will be regularly monitored and reviewed:

• In accordance with changes in legislation and guidance on the protection of children and vulnerable adults or any changes within Scottish Women’s Football.
• Following any issues or concerns raised about the protection of children or vulnerable adults within Scottish Women’s Football.
• In all other circumstances, at least annually.

Scottish Women’s Football Child and Vulnerable Adult Protection Procedures

1 Recruitment and Employment

All reasonable steps must be taken to ensure unsuitable people are prevented from working with children and vulnerable adults.  For all positions that require regular contact with children or vulnerable adults the following recruitment procedures must be completed.

1.1 Advertising

All forms of advertising used to recruit members for positions involving regular contact with children or vulnerable adults will include the following:

• The aims of Scottish women’s football and, where appropriate, details of the particular programme involved.
• The responsibilities of the role.
• The level of experience or qualifications required (e.g. experience of working with children is an advantage).
• Details of Scottish Women’s Football’s open and positive stance on child and vulnerable adult protection.
• May be subject to a Disclosure Check

1.2 Pre-application Information

Pre-application information for positions involving regular contact with children or vulnerable adults will be sent to applicants and will include:

• A job description including roles and responsibilities.
• A candidate specification (e.g. stating qualifications or experience of working with children or vulnerable adults required).
• An application form and self-declaration form.
• Information on Scottish Women’s Football and related topics.

1.3 Application and Self-Declaration Form

All applicants will be requested to complete an application and self-declaration form. The purpose of the application form is to obtain relevant details from the applicant for the position. The purpose of the self-declaration form is to collect information on criminal

behaviour that is relevant to the position e.g. criminal records or investigations. The self-declaration form is requested in a separate sealed envelope and is not opened until the applicant is selected for an interview. If the applicant is not selected the form is returned unopened to the applicant.

1.4 References

References will be sought as required. Where possible at least one of these references will be from an employer or a voluntary organisation where the position required working with children or vulnerable adults in any of the following capacities: employee; volunteer; or work experience. If the person has no experience of working with children or vulnerable adults, specific training requirements will be agreed before appointment.

1.5 Checks

Scottish Women’s Football is registered with Central Registered Body for Scotland and prior to appointment a Disclosure Scotland check will be completed. This will require the prospective position holder to complete and submit a Disclosure Scotland application form, with the results returning to Maureen McGonigle.

As recommended by Disclosure Scotland (Protecting the Vulnerable by Safer Recruitment, 2002) the following types of checks are to be requested for positions requiring contact with children and vulnerable adults:

Standard Disclosure

Standard disclosures will be requested from those applying for positions listed in the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (ROA) (Exceptions) Order 1975. These categories include occupations with duties that involve regular contact with children and young people under the age of 18; and the elderly, sick and handicapped people.

Enhanced Disclosure

Enhanced Disclosures will be requested as above, for positions that involve a greater degree of contact with children or vulnerable adults. For example positions which require regular contact with, training, supervising or being in sole charge of children and young people.

1.6 Interview

For positions that require regular contact with children or vulnerable adults, interviews will be carried out. An interview will include requests for a self declaration check and additional information to support the application.

1.7 Offer of Position

Once a decision has been made to appoint an individual, an offer letter will be presented to the applicant including the details of the position, any special requirements and the obligations e.g. agreement to the policies and procedures of the organisation, the probation period and responsibilities of the role. Confirmation of the position being accepted will require the offer letter to be formally accepted and agreed to in writing e.g. by the individual signing and dating their agreement on the offer letter and returning it to the organisation.

If successful in gaining the position, the previously submitted application form will be returned unopened.

Should discrepancies occur between the two forms, the SWF Child Protection Committee shall decide on the most suitable course of action. 

There will be no details given to the applicant in regard to this decision.

1.8 Induction

The induction process for the newly appointed member will include the following:

• An assessment of training, individual aids and any other needs and aspirations.
• Clarification, agreement and signing up to the Child and Vulnerable Adult Protection Policy and Procedures.
• Clarification of the expectations, roles and responsibilities of the position.

1.9 Training

Newly appointed members will complete the following training over an agreed period:

• Protecting children and vulnerable adults.

·        Working effectively with children and vulnerable adults (including presentation skills, developing child and vulnerable adult friendly resources and activities).

• Any other identified training needs.

1.10 Probation

Newly appointed members will complete an agreed period of probation on commencement of their role.

1.11 Monitoring and Performance Appraisal

All members who have contact with children or vulnerable adults will be monitored and their performance appraised. This will provide an opportunity to evaluate progress, set new goals, identify training needs and address any concerns of poor practice.

2 Members with Specific Responsibility for the Protection of Children and Vulnerable Adults

2.1 Child and Vulnerable Adult Officer

The Child and Vulnerable Adult Officer has the main responsibility for managing child and vulnerable adult protection issues within Scottish Women’s Football. The role and responsibilities of the Child and Vulnerable Adult Officer are detailed below. Specific responsibilities in relation to allegations against members are detailed in the Procedure for Managing Suspicions and Allegations of Abuse of a Child or Vulnerable Adult against Members (Section 7.5).

2.2 Role and Responsibilities of the Child and Vulnerable Adult Officer

Within Scottish Women’s Football the Child and Vulnerable Adult Officer will:

• Implement and promote Scottish Women’s Football’s Child and Vulnerable Adult Protection Policy and Procedures.
• Regularly report to the Executive Committee.
• Act as the main contact within Scottish Women’s Football for the protection of children and vulnerable adults.
• Provide information and advice on the protection of children and vulnerable adults.
• Support and raise awareness of the protection of children and vulnerable adults.
• Communicate with members on issues of child and vulnerable adult protection.
• Keep abreast of developments and understand the latest information on data protection, confidentiality and other legal issues that impact on the protection of children and vulnerable adults.
• Encourage good practice and support of procedures to protect children and vulnerable adults.
• Establish and maintain contact with local statutory agencies including the Police and Social Work Department.
• Maintain confidential records of reported cases and action taken and liaise with the statutory agencies and ensure they have access to all necessary information.
• Organise training for members. Regularly monitor and review the Scottish Women’s Football’s Child and Vulnerable Adult Protection Policy and Procedures.

Within Member Clubs of Scottish Women’s Football, the Child and Vulnerable Adult Officer will:

• Implement and promote Scottish Women’s Football Child and Vulnerable Adult Protection Policy and Procedures.
• Regularly report to the Executive Committee.
• Act as the main contact within the Club for the protection of children and vulnerable adults.
• Encourage good practice and support of procedures to protect children and vulnerable adults.
• Keep abreast of developments and understand the latest information on data protection, confidentiality and other legal issues that impact on the protection of children and vulnerable adults.
• Communicate with Scottish Women’s Football’s Child and Vulnerable Adult Officer.
• Maintain confidential records of reported cases and action taken and liaise with the statutory agencies and ensure they have access to all necessary information.
• Report cases, concerns and action taken to Scottish Women’s Football’s Child and Vulnerable Adult Officer.
• Attend training on the protection of children and vulnerable adults.
• Establish and maintain contact with local statutory agencies including the Police and Social Work Department.
• Monitor and review the Child and Vulnerable Adult Protection Policy and Procedures for their club.

3 Code of Conduct for the Protection of Children and Vulnerable Adults

This code of conduct details the types of practice required by all members of Scottish Women’s Football when in contact with children or vulnerable adults. The types of practice are categorised into good practice; practice to be avoided and practice never to be sanctioned. Suspicions or allegations of non-compliance of the Code by a member will be dealt with through the Scottish Women’s Football Disciplinary Procedure for misconduct or through Responding to a Suspicion or Allegation of Abuse against a Member of Scottish Women’s Football (Section 7.5).

3.1 Good Practice

Scottish Women’s Football supports and requires the following good practice by members when in contact with children and vulnerable adults.

When working with children or vulnerable adults:

• Make sport fun, enjoyable and promote fair play.
• Always work in an open environment e.g. avoid private or unobserved situations and encourage an open environment for activities.
• Treat all children and vulnerable adults equally, with respect and dignity.
• Put the welfare of each child or vulnerable adult first before winning or achieving performance goals.
• Be an excellent role model including not smoking or drinking alcohol in the company of children or vulnerable adults.
• Give enthusiastic and constructive feedback rather than negative criticism.
• Ensure that if any form of manual or physical support is required for a child or vulnerable adult, it is provided openly, the child or vulnerable adult is informed of what is being done and their consent is obtained.
• Deliver educational instruction first verbally; secondly role-modelled; and thirdly, and only if necessary, with hands on - which must be accompanied by telling the child or vulnerable adult where you are putting your hands and why it is necessary and obtaining their consent.
• Involve parents, guardians and carers wherever possible.
• Build balanced relationships based on mutual trust that empower children and vulnerable adults to share in the decision making process.
• Recognise the developmental needs and capacity of children and vulnerable adults and avoid excessive training or competition and either pushing them against their will or putting undue pressure on them.

First Aid and Treatment of Injuries:

If, in your capacity as a member of Scottish Women’s Football, a child or vulnerable adult requires first aid or any form of medical attention whilst in your care, then the following good practice must be followed:

• Where practicable all parents/guardians of children under 16 must complete a Scottish Women’s Football Medical Consent Form before participating in football.
• Be aware of any pre-existing medical conditions, medicines being taken by participants or existing injuries and treatment required.
• Keep a written record of any injury that occurs, along with the details of any treatment given.
• Where possible, ensure access to medical advice and/or assistance is available.
• Only those with a current, recognised First Aid qualification should respond to any injuries.

• Where possible any course of action should be discussed with the child/vulnerable adult, in language that they understand and their permission sought before any action is taken.
• In more serious cases, assistance must be obtained from a medically qualified professional as soon as possible.

·        The child’s or vulnerable adult’s parents/guardians or carers must be informed of any injury and any action taken as soon as possible, unless it is in the child’s or vulnerable adult’s interests and on professional advice not to do so.

• A Notification of Accident Form must be completed and signed and passed to the organisation as soon as possible.

For taking and transporting children or vulnerable adults away from home:

If it is necessary to provide transport or take children or vulnerable adults away from home the following good practice must be followed:

• Where practicable request written parental/guardian consent if members are required to transport children or vulnerable adults.
• Always tell another member that you are transporting a child, give details of the route and the anticipated length of the journey.
• Ensure all vehicles are correctly insured.
• All reasonable safety measures are taken, e.g. children in the back seat, seatbelts are worn.
• Ensure, where possible, a male and female accompany mixed groups of children or vulnerable adults. These adults should be familiar with and agree to abide by Scottish Women’s Football's Child and Vulnerable Adult Protection Policy and Procedures

• Always plan and prepare a detailed programme of activities and ensure copies are available for other members and parents/guardians.

3.2 Practice to Be Avoided

In the context of your role within Scottish Women’s Football, the following practice should be avoided:

• Avoid having ‘favourites’ - this could lead to resentment and jealousy by other children or vulnerable adults and could lead to false allegations.
• Avoid spending excessive amounts of time alone with children or vulnerable adults away from others.
• Ensure that when children or vulnerable adults are taken away from home adults avoid entering their rooms unless in an emergency situation or in the interest of health and safety. If it is necessary to enter rooms, the door should remain open, if appropriate.
• Avoid taking children or vulnerable adults to your home.
• Avoid, where possible, doing things of a personal nature for children and vulnerable adults that they can do for themselves.

Important Note: It may sometimes be necessary for members to do things of a personal nature for children or vulnerable adults, particularly if they are very young or vulnerable. These tasks should only be carried out with the full understanding and consent of the child or vulnerable adult and where possible their parents/guardians. It is important to respect their views. If a person is fully dependent on you, talk with him/her about what you are doing and give choices where possible, particularly so if you are involved in any dressing or undressing of outer clothing, or where there is physical contact, lifting or assisting a child or vulnerable adult to carry out particular activities. Do not take on the responsibility for tasks for which you are not appropriately trained.

3.3 Practice never to be sanctioned

In the context of your role within Scottish Women’s Football, the following practices should never be sanctioned:

• Never engage in sexually provocative games, including horseplay.
• Never engage in rough or physical contact except as permitted within the rules of the game or competition.
• Never form intimate emotional or physical relationships with children or vulnerable adults.
• Never allow or engage in touching a child or vulnerable adult in a sexually suggestive manner.
• Never allow children or vulnerable adults to swear or use sexualised language unchallenged.
• Never make sexually suggestive comments to a child or vulnerable adult, even in fun.
• Never reduce a child or vulnerable adult to tears as a form of control.
• Never allow allegations made by a child or vulnerable adult to go unchallenged, unrecorded or not acted upon.
• Never share a room with a child or vulnerable adult for sleeping accommodation.
• Never invite or allow children or vulnerable adults to stay with you at your home.

Important Note:

In special cases sharing may be required for health and safety reasons or if the child is very young or particularly vulnerable. If so, explain why this is necessary to the child/vulnerable adult and their parent or guardian and seek their consent.

Where possible ensure that at least two adults, preferably male and female are in the room.

3.4 Reporting

If members have concerns about an incident involving a child or vulnerable adult that seems untoward or unusual they must report their concerns as soon as possible to the Child and Vulnerable Adult Officer. Parents should also be informed of the incident as soon as possible unless it is not in the child's or vulnerable adult’s interests to tell them. (refer to Section 8, sharing Concerns with Parents, Guardians or Carers).

Report, record and inform if the following occur:

• If you accidentally hurt a child or vulnerable adult.
• If a child or vulnerable adult seems distressed in any manner.
• If a child or vulnerable adult misunderstands or misinterprets something you have said or done.
• If a child or vulnerable adult appears to be sexually aroused by your actions.
• If a child or vulnerable adult needs to be restrained.

4 Identifying and Managing Bullying

The lives of many people are made miserable by bullying. Victims of bullying can feel lonely, isolated and deeply unhappy. It can have a devastating effect on a child or vulnerable adult's self-esteem and destroy their self-confidence and concentration. They may become withdrawn and insecure, more cautious and less willing to take any sort of risk. They may feel it is somehow their fault or that there is something wrong with them and at worst cause depression and/or feelings of worthlessness that lead to suicide.

To ensure Scottish Women’s Football creates an atmosphere where bullying of children and vulnerable adults is unacceptable and to help members manage bullying issues, guidelines for identifying and managing bullying have been developed.

Any suspicions or allegations of bullying of a child or vulnerable adult against a member will be dealt with through the Scottish Women’s Football Disciplinary Procedures and/or Responding to a Suspicion or Allegation of Abuse against a Member of Scottish Women’s Football.

5 Photographing, Videoing and Filming of Children and Vulnerable Adults

There is evidence that some people have used sporting venues and activities as an opportunity to take inappropriate photographs or film footage of children and vulnerable adults. The following procedures have been developed to protect children and vulnerable adults.

The following is required for Scottish Women’s Football activities or events where children or vulnerable adults are participating:

• Where appropriate all materials promoting Scottish Women’s Football events or activities shall state that accredited photographers will be present.
• Where possible consent from the parent/guardian for photographing, videoing and/or filming of a child or vulnerable adult must be obtained prior to the event or activity.
• Where possible anyone wishing to use photographic/film/video equipment at a venue must obtain the approval of Scottish Women’s Football.

·        An activity or event specific identification badge/sticker must be provided to and clearly displayed at all times by accredited photographers, film and video operators on the day of the activity or event.

• No unsupervised access or one-to-one sessions are to be permitted unless this has been approved in advance by the child or vulnerable adult, parent/guardian and the organisation, and appropriate vetting has occurred e.g. Disclosure Scotland

check of individual wanting to photograph, film or video.

• Scottish Women’s Football reserves the right at all times to prohibit the use of photography, film or video at any event or activity with which it is associated.

The requirements above are publicly promoted to ensure all people present at the event or activity understand the procedure and are aware of whom to contact if concerned.

5.1 Concerns about Photographers, Video or Film Operators

Any concerns with photographers or video or film operators are to be reported to Scottish Women’s Football’s Child and Vulnerable Adult Officer and where relevant, the Police.

6 Children or Vulnerable Adults in Publications and on the Internet

Sport websites and publications provide excellent opportunities to broadcast achievements of individuals to the world and to provide a showcase for the activities of young people or vulnerable adults. In some cases, however, displaying certain information about children and vulnerable adults could place them at risk. The following procedure must be followed to ensure Scottish Women’s Football publications and Scottish Women’s Football information on the Internet do not place children and vulnerable adults at risk.

Scottish Women’s Football publications and Scottish Women’s Football information on the Internet must adhere to the following:

• Publications or information on an Internet site must never include personal information that could identify a child or vulnerable adult e.g. home address, e-mail address, telephone number of a child or vulnerable adult. Any contact information must be directed to either Scottish Women’s Football or another relevant organisation's address, for example another governing body or club.
• Before publishing any information about a child or vulnerable adult, written consent must be obtained from the child or vulnerable adult’s parent/guardian. If the material is changed from the time of consent, the parents/guardians must be informed and consent provided for the changes.
• The content of photographs or videos must not depict a child or vulnerable adult in a provocative pose or in a state of partial undress other than when depicting a sporting activity. Where relevant, a tracksuit may be more appropriate attire. Children and vulnerable adults must never be portrayed in a demeaning or tasteless manner.
• For photographs or videos of groups or teams of children or vulnerable adults ensure that only the group or team is referred to, not individual members. Credit for achievements by a child or vulnerable adult are to be restricted to first names e.g. Tracey was Player of the Year 2002.
•  All published events involving children or vulnerable adults must be reviewed to ensure the information will not put children or vulnerable adults at risk. Any publications of specific meetings or child/vulnerable adult events e.g. team coaching sessions, must not be distributed to any individuals other than to those directly concerned.
• Particular care must be taken in publishing photographs, film or videos of children or vulnerable adults who are considered particularly vulnerable e.g. the subject of a child or vulnerable adult protection issue or a custody dispute.
• Particular care is to be taken in publishing photographs, films or videos of children or vulnerable adults with physical, learning and/or communication or language disabilities, as they could be particularly vulnerable to abuse.

Important Note: Any concerns or enquiries about publications or Internet information should be reported to Scottish Women’s Football’s Child and Vulnerable Adult Officer.

7 Responding to Disclosures

Information you receive about or from a child or vulnerable adult may fall into one of the following categories:

1.         Suspicion or allegation of misconduct against a member of Scottish Women’s Football

2.         Suspicion or allegation of abuse against a member of Scottish Women’s Football

3.         Suspicion or allegation of inappropriate behaviour against someone who is not a member

4.         Suspicion or allegation of abuse against someone who is not a member

If unclear about the nature of the information (and therefore which category the disclosure falls into) advice must be sought from the Child and Vulnerable Adult Officer or the Police or Social Work Department.  It is not the responsibility of anyone from Scottish Women’s football to decide whether or not a child or vulnerable adult has been abused. It is however everyone's responsibility to report concerns.

It is very important that Scottish Women’s Football members understand what is meant by the term 'abuse'. The different types of abuse are:

• Emotional Abuse
• Neglect
• Physical Abuse
• Sexual Abuse
• Negative Discrimination (including racism)
• Bullying (includes bullying by gangs; bullying by family members; physical bullying; verbal bullying; teasing; and harassment)

The definitions for the types of abuse and signs that may suggest abuse are detailed in Appendix A. It is very important that this appendix is read and understood.

7.1 How to Listen to a Disclosure

It is important to listen carefully to the information a child or vulnerable adult discloses. When listening to a disclosure the following good practice is required:

• React calmly so as not to frighten the child/vulnerable adult.
• Listen to the child/vulnerable adult.
• Do not show disbelief.
• Tell the child/vulnerable adult that he/she is not to blame and that he/she was right to tell.
• Take what the child/vulnerable adult says seriously, recognising the difficulties inherent in interpreting what a child/vulnerable adult says, especially if they have a speech disability and/or differences in language.
• Do not pre-suppose that the experience was bad or painful - it may have been neutral or even pleasurable. Always avoid projecting your own reactions onto the child or vulnerable adult.
• If you need to clarify, keep questions to the absolute minimum to ensure a clear and accurate understanding of what has been said.
• If you need to clarify or the statement is ambiguous, use open-ended, non-leading questions.
• Do not introduce personal information from either your own experiences or those of other children or vulnerable adults.
• Reassure the child or vulnerable adult.

Actions to Avoid when receiving a disclosure:

• Avoid panic.
• Avoid showing shock or distaste.
• Avoid probing for more information than is offered.
• Avoid speculating or making assumptions.
• Avoid making negative comments about the person against whom the allegation has been made.
• Avoid approaching the individual against whom the allegation has been made.
• Avoid making promises or agreeing to keep secrets.
• Avoid giving a guarantee of confidentiality.

7.2 Responding to a Suspicion or Allegation of Inappropriate Behaviour or Misconduct against someone who is not a Member of Scottish Women’s Football

In the course of your role within Scottish Women’s Football a child or vulnerable adult may disclose information to you about a person who is not a member that leads to a suspicion or allegation of inappropriate behaviour or misconduct.

If the disclosure is about an incident that occurred during a Scottish Women’s Football event or activity:

• Listen to the child as detailed above.

• Acknowledge the information received.
• Pass the information to both the manager of the event or activity and the Child and Vulnerable Adult Officer and if appropriate the parents/guardians/carers of the child or vulnerable adult (refer to Section 8 Sharing Concerns with Parents, Guardians or Carers).
• Make a full written record of the disclosure on the day you receive the disclosure.
• Sign and date the record then pass it to the Child and Vulnerable Adult Officer.

7.3 Responding to a Suspicion or Allegation of Inappropriate behaviour or Misconduct against a Member of Scottish Women’s Football

If you receive a disclosure that leads to a suspicion or allegation of inappropriate behaviour or misconduct against a member:

• Listen to the child as detailed above.
• Acknowledge the information received.
• Pass to the Child and Vulnerable Adult Officer.
• Make a full written record of the disclosure on the day you receive the disclosure.
• Sign and date the record then pass to the Child and Vulnerable Adult Officer.
• Establishing the Basic Facts

The Child and Vulnerable Adult Officer must clarify the basic facts to establish whether there is reasonable cause to suspect or believe that misconduct has occurred. If the basic facts support a suspicion or allegation of misconduct by a member, the matter will be dealt with in accordance with the Scottish Women’s Football’s Disciplinary Procedure.

7.4 Responding to a Suspicion or Allegation of Abuse against someone who is Not a Member of Scottish Women’s Football

All allegations of abuse must be taken seriously. Although false allegations of abuse do occur, they are less than usual. If a child or vulnerable adult says or indicates that he/she is being abused or information is obtained which gives concern that a child or vulnerable adult is being abused, you must react as soon as possible that day in line with the following procedures.

Where there is uncertainty about whether the concern relates to abuse or misconduct, the Child and Vulnerable Adult Officer must firstly be consulted for advice on the appropriate course of action. If the Child and Vulnerable Adult Officer is unavailable, external agencies such as the Police and Social Work Department must be consulted for advice. This is important because they have an overview of child protection issues and they may well have other information that together causes concern.

On receiving information about a non-member that leads to a suspicion or allegation of abuse:

• Listen to the child or vulnerable adult as detailed in section 7.1 How to Listen to Disclosures.
• Pass your concerns to the Social Work Department or the Police in the area where the abuse is alleged to have occurred
• immediately (these are available 24 hours a day). Act on any advice given. At the earliest opportunity tell the Child and Vulnerable Adult Officer about the action taken.
• Make a full written record of what has been seen, heard and/or told as soon as possible in the child/vulnerable adult’s
• own words. The information must, where known, include the following:
• Name of child/vulnerable adult.
• Age, date of birth of child/vulnerable adult.
• Home address and telephone number of the child/vulnerable adult.
• The nature of the allegation in the child/vulnerable adult's own words.
• Any times, dates or other relevant information.
• Whether the person making the report is expressing their own concern or the concerns of another person.
• The child/vulnerable adult’s account, if it can be given, of what has happened and how any injuries occurred.
• The nature of the allegation (include all of the information obtained during the initial account e.g. time, date, location of alleged incident).
• A description of any visible (when normally dressed) injuries or bruising, behavioural signs, indirect signs (do not examine the child/vulnerable adult).
• Details of any witnesses to the incident.
• Whether the child/vulnerable adult's parents/guardians/carers have been contacted.
• Details of anyone else who has been consulted and the information obtained from them.
• If it is not the child/vulnerable adult making the report, whether the child/vulnerable adult has been spoken to, if so what was said.
• Record, sign and date on the day what you have seen, heard or been told.
• If making an electronic copy do not save to the hard drive or floppy disk. Print off the record, sign and date, and then delete the electronic copy, that day.
• Pass the record to the Social Work Department or the Police.

Remember: Listen; Respond; Report and Record

7.5 Responding to a Suspicion or Allegation of Abuse against a Member of Scottish Women’s Football

The feelings caused by the discovery of potential abuse by a member will raise different issues, e.g. disbelief that a member would act in this way. It is not the responsibility of a member to take responsibility or to decide whether or not a child or vulnerable adult has been abused.

However, as with allegations against non-members, it is the responsibility of the individual to act on any concerns. Any information that raises concern about the behaviour of a member towards a child or vulnerable adult must be passed on as soon as possible that day, in accordance with these procedures.

No member in receipt of such information shall keep that information to himself/ herself or attempt to deal with the matter on their own.  These Procedures aim to ensure that all suspicions and/or allegations of abuse against a member are taken seriously and are dealt with in a timely and appropriate manner. They must be read in conjunction with the Scottish Women’s Football’s Disciplinary Procedures.

7.5.1 On receiving information about a member that leads to a suspicion or allegation of abuse:

• Listen to the child or vulnerable adult as detailed in section 7.1 How to Listen to Disclosures.
• Pass your concerns to the Child and Vulnerable Adult Officer on the day or if not available, the Social Work Department or the Police in the area where the abuse is alleged to have occurred (these are available 24 hours a day). Act on any advice given.
• Make a full written record of what has been seen, heard and/or told as soon as possible in the child/vulnerable adult's own words.
• Sign and date the record including what you have seen, heard or been told, that day.
• If making an electronic copy do not save to the hard drive or floppy disk. Print the record, sign and date, and then delete the electronic copy, that day.
• Pass the record to the Child and Vulnerable Adult Officer or the Social Work Department or Police.
•  

Important Note: Where the concern is about the Child and Vulnerable Adult Officer it must be reported to the Executive Administrator.

7.5.2 Actions for the Child and Vulnerable Adult Officer when Concerns are reported

Before taking any action the Child and Vulnerable Adult Officer must always seek advice from the Police or Social Work Department.

Thereafter:

• Establish Basic Facts - the Child and Vulnerable Adult Officer must initially clarify the basic facts to establish whether there is reasonable cause to suspect or believe that a member may have abused a child and/or vulnerable adult.

Important Note:

• This may necessitate the child(ren) or vulnerable adult(s) involved being asked some basic, open-ended, non-leading questions solely with a view to clarifying the basic facts. It may also be necessary to ask similar basic questions of other children, or other appropriate individuals e.g. coaches. After seeking advice from the Police and/or Social Work Department, the parents/guardians may be approached to provide consent to speak to a child/vulnerable adult.
• Advice must be sought from the Police and/or Social Work Department as to whether the member about whom the allegation has been made may be approached as part of the initial enquiry.
• This process will not form part of the disciplinary investigation.

Making a Referral in Cases of Suspected and/or Alleged Abuse - If the basic facts support a suspicion or allegation of abuse:

• The Child and Vulnerable Adult Officer will refer the suspicion and/or allegation to the Social Work Department and the Police, as soon as possible that day.
• Appropriate steps may be required to ensure the safety of the child(ren) or vulnerable adult(s) who may be at risk.
• A record should be made of the name and designation of the Social Work Department member of staff or the Police Officer to whom the concerns were passed, together with the time and date of the call, in case any follow up is required.
• Following advice from the Social Work Department and/or Police, the parent/guardian of the child or vulnerable adult should be contacted as soon as possible.

Important Note:

• Reporting of the matter to the Police or Social Work Department must not be delayed by attempts to obtain more information. A Referral for Reporting Suspicions and/or Allegations of Abuse Against a Member of Scottish Women’s Football
• Form must be completed as soon as possible that day. Where possible, a copy of this form must be sent to the Police and Social Work Department within 24 hours.
• Possible Outcomes following advice from Police

Where the initial enquiry reveals that there is reasonable cause to suspect or believe that a member has abused a child and/or vulnerable adult there will be an investigation. There are three types of investigation that can result:

• A disciplinary investigation
• A child protection investigation
• A criminal investigation

Following advice from the Police, disciplinary action may be taken in cases where a criminal investigation is ongoing provided sufficient information is available to enable a decision to be made and doing so does not jeopardise the criminal investigation.

7.5.3 Managing the Member against Whom the Allegation has been made

Following advice from the Police, if the decision is made that the member against whom the allegation has been made is to be informed, the member should be told an allegation has been made which suggests abuse. It is essential to preserve evidence for any criminal proceedings while at the same time safeguarding the rights of the member.

7.5.4 Suspension

• Suspension is not a form of disciplinary action. The member may be suspended whilst an investigation is carried out.
• Suspension will be carried out in accordance with Scottish Women’s Football's Disciplinary Procedures.
• At the suspension interview the member will be informed of the reason suspension is taking place and given the opportunity to give a statement should he/she wish. Notification of the suspension and the reasons will be conveyed in writing to the member in accordance with Scottish Women’s Football's Disciplinary Procedures.

7.5.5 Managing False or Malicious Allegations

• Where after investigation, the allegation is found to be false or malicious the member will receive an account of the circumstances and/or investigation and a letter confirming the conclusion of the matter. The member involved may wish to seek legal advice.
• All records pertaining to the circumstances and investigation will be destroyed.
• Where this involves a member of Scottish Women’s Football they will be advised of the appropriate counselling services available.

7.5.6 Managing Allegations of Historical Abuse

• Allegations of abuse may be made some time after the event e.g. an adult who was abused as a child by a member who is still currently working with children. Where such an allegation is made the procedures for managing allegations of abuse, detailed in Sections 7.4 and 7.5, must be followed.

8 Sharing concerns with Parents, Guardians or Carers

8.1 Where it is Not Abuse

There is always a commitment to work in partnership with parents/guardians/carers where there are concerns about a child/vulnerable adult. Therefore in most situations, not involving the possibility of the abuse of a child or vulnerable adult, it would be important to talk to parents –guardians -carers to help clarify any initial concerns. For example, if a child or vulnerable adult seems withdrawn, he/she may have experienced an upset in the family, such as a parental separation, divorce or bereavement. Common sense is advised is these situations however advice should be sought from the Child and Vulnerable Adult Officer if there is any uncertainty about the appropriate course of action.

8.2 Allegations of Abuse

There are circumstances in which a child or vulnerable adult might be placed at even greater risk if concerns are shared e.g. where a parent/guardian/carer may be responsible for the abuse or not able to respond to the situation appropriately. In all cases of suspected or alleged abuse, advice and guidance must first be sought from the local Social Work Department or the Police as to who contacts the parents.

Section 4 – Rehabilitation of Offenders Policy

1. Scottish Women’s Football complies fully with the Code of Practice in connection with the use of information provided to registered persons and other recipients of information by Disclosure Scotland under Part V of the Police Act 1997, for the purposes of assessing applicants' suitability for positions of trust. We undertake to treat all applicants for positions fairly and not to discriminate unfairly against the subject of a Disclosure on the basis of conviction or other information revealed.

2. We have a written policy on the recruitment of ex-offenders, which is made available to all Disclosure applicants at the outset of the recruitment process.

3. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to following practices, and to providing a service which is free from unfair and unlawful discrimination. We ensure that no applicant or member of staff is subject to less favourable treatment on the grounds of gender, marital status, race colour, nationality, ethnic or national origins, age, sexual orientation, responsibilities for dependants, physical or mental disability, or offending background, or is disadvantage by any condition which cannot be shown to be relevant to performance.

4. Scottish Women’s Football actively promotes equality of opportunity for all with the right mix of talent, skills and potential, and welcomes applications from a wide range of candidates, including those with criminal records. The selection of candidates for interview will be based on skills, qualifications and experience.

5. We will request a Standard or Enhanced Disclosure only where this is considered proportionate and relevant to the particular position. This will be based on a thorough risk assessment of that position. Where a Disclosure is deemed necessary for a post or position, all applications forms, job adverts, careers literature, website, and any other appropriate literature will contain a statement that a Disclosure will be requested in the event of the individual being offered the position.

6. Where a Disclosure is to form part of the recruitment process, Scottish Women’s Football will encourage all applicants selected for interview to provide details of their criminal record at an early stage in the application process. We ask that this information be sent under separate, confidential cover, to a designated person within Scottish Women’s Football and we guarantee that this information will only be seen by those who need to see it as part of the recruitment process.

7. In line with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (ROA) (EXEC) Order 1975, Scottish Women’s Football will ask about convictions which are defined as "spent or unspent"

8. At interview, or under separate discussion, we undertake to ensure an open and measured discussion on the subject of any offences or other matters that might be considered relevant for the position concerned. Failure to reveal information that is directly relevant to the position sought could lead to withdrawal of an offer of employment.

9. The position will not be offered until satisfactory references and Disclosure check are received.  A further interview will be arranged.

10. We ensure that all those in Scottish Women’s Football who are involved in the recruitment process have been suitably trained to identify and assess the relevance and circumstances of offences. We also ensure that they have received appropriate guidance and training in the relevant legislation relating to employment of ex-offenders (e.g. the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974).

11. We undertake to make every subject of a Disclosure aware of the existence of the Code of Practice, and to make a copy available on request.

HAVING A CRIMINAL RECORD WILL NOT NECESSARILY DEBAR YOU FROM WORKING WITH SCOTTISH WOMEN’S FOOTBALL.  THIS WILL DEPEND ON THE NATURE OF THE POSITION, TOGETHER WITH THE CIRCUMSTANCES AND BACKROUND OF YOUR OFFENCES.

Section 5 – Safe and Secure Handling Policy

General Principles

1. Scottish Women’s Football complies fully with the Code of Practice regarding the correct handling, holding and destroying Disclosure information provided by Disclosure Scotland under Part V of the Police Act 1997, for the purposes of assessing applicants' suitability for positions of trust. It also complies fully with the Data Protection Act 1998 and other relevant legislation pertaining to the safe handling, use, storage, retention and disposal of Disclosure information and has a written policy on these matters. This policy is available to anyone who wishes to see it on request.

Usage           

2. We use Disclosure information only for the purpose for which it has been provided. The information provided by an individual for a position within Scottish Women’s Football is not used or disclosed in a manner incompatible with the purpose. We process personal data only with the express consent of the individual. We notify the individual of any non-obvious use of the data, including further disclosure to a third party, identifying the Collator and additional signatories, the purpose for the processing, and any further relevant information.

Handling

3. Scottish Women’s Football recognises that, under section 124 of the Police Act 1997, it is a criminal offence to disclose Disclosure information to any unauthorised person.   We, therefore, only pass Disclosure information to those who are authorised to see it in the course of their duties (Only the Collator and the CPO shall have access). Scottish Women’s Football will not disclose information provided under section 115(8) of the Act, namely information which is not included in the Disclosure, to the applicant.

Access & Storage

4. We do not keep Disclosure information on an individual's personnel file. It is kept securely, in lockable, non-portable storage containers. Access to storage units is strictly controlled to authorised and named individuals, who are entitled to see such information in the course of their duties.

Retention

5. We do not keep Disclosures or Disclosure information for any longer than six months after recruitment (or any other relevant) decision has been taken. This is to allow for the resolution of any disputes or complaints. Disclosure information will only be retained for longer than this period in exceptional circumstances, and in consultation with Disclosure Scotland. The same conditions relating to secure storage and access will apply during any such period.

Disposal

6. Once the retention period has elapsed, we will ensure that Disclosure information is immediately destroyed in a secure manner i.e. by shredding, pulping or burning. Scottish Women’s Football will not keep Disclosure information which is awaiting destruction in any insecure receptacle.  We will not retain any image or photocopy or any other form of the Disclosure information. We will, however, keep a record of the date of issue of the Disclosure, the name of the subject, the Disclosure type, and the position for which the Disclosure was requested, the unique reference umber of the Disclosure and details of the recruitment decision taken.

Umbrella Bodies

7. Scottish Women’s Football will take all reasonable steps to ensure that they can comply with the Scottish Code of Practice, and in full accordance with this policy. We will also take all reasonable steps to satisfy ourselves that we will handle, use, store, retain, and dispose of Disclosure information in full compliance with the Code of Practice, and in full accordance with this policy. We will also ensure that any body or individual at whose request applications for Disclosures are countersigned has such a written policy and, if necessary, will provide a model policy for that body or individual to use or adapt for this purpose.

Section 6 - Definition of Terms

Child:

A child is defined as a person under 16 years of age when operating these Guidelines in Scotland (in England a child is under 18 years of age for protection purposes)

Vulnerable Adults:

The term Vulnerable Adult refers to any person aged 16 or over whom for the time being:

• Are unable to safeguard their own welfare or properly manage their financial affairs; and
• Are in one or more of the following categories:
• A person in need of care and attention by reason of either infirmity or the effects of ageing
• A person suffering from an illness or mental disorder
• A person substantially handicapped by a disability
• Vulnerable Adults may be in need of health or social support services and may be unable to take care of himself/herself and to protect themselves from harm or exploitation.

A number of studies suggest that children and vulnerable adults are at increased risk of abuse. Various factors contribute to this such as stereotyping, prejudice, discrimination, isolation and a powerlessness to protect themselves or adequately communicate that abuse has occurred.

Types of Abuse

It is generally accepted that there are four forms of abuse. However, in some cases negative discrimination and bullying can have severe and adverse effects on a child or vulnerable adult. Scottish Women’s Football is committed to protecting children and vulnerable adults from all forms of abuse.

Recognising child abuse is not easy and it is not a person’s responsibility to decide whether or not a child or vulnerable adult has been abused. It is a person’s responsibility to pass on any concerns and for the Police and/or Social Work Department to investigate.

The signs of abuse listed are not definitive or exhaustive. The list is designed to help Scottish Women’s Football members to be more alert to the signs of possible abuse.

Children and vulnerable adults may display some of the indicators at some time; the presence of one or more should not be taken as proof that abuse is occurring. Any of these signs or behaviors must be seen in the context of the child/vulnerable adult's whole situation and in combination with other information related to the child/vulnerable adult and his/her circumstances. There can also be overlap between different forms of abuse.

Emotional Abuse

Emotional abuse is the persistent emotional ill treatment of a child or vulnerable adult such as to cause severe and adverse effects on their emotional development. It may involve conveying that they are worthless or unloved, inadequate or valued only insofar as they meet the needs of another person.

It may feature age or developmentally inappropriate expectations being imposed on children or vulnerable adults. It may also involve causing a child or vulnerable adult to frequently feel frightened or in danger, or the corruption or exploitation of a child or vulnerable adult.

Emotional Abuse in Sport

This may include the persistent failure to show self-respect, build self-esteem and confidence by children or vulnerable adults that may be caused by:

• Exposure to humiliating or aggressive behaviour or tone.

• Failure to intervene where self-confidence and worth are challenged or   undermined.

Signs of possible emotional abuse:

• Low self esteem

• Continual self deprecation

• Sudden speech disorder

• Significant decline in concentration

• Immaturity

• ‘Neurotic’ behaviour e.g. rocking

• Self-mutilation

• Compulsive stealing

• Extremes of passivity or aggression

• Running away

• Indiscriminate friendliness

Neglect

Neglect is the persistent failure to meet a child or vulnerable adult's basic physical and/or psychological needs. It may involve a parent or carer failing to provide adequate food, shelter, warmth, clothing and cleanliness. It may also include leaving a child home

alone, exposure in a manner likely to cause unnecessary suffering or injury or the failure to ensure that appropriate medical care or treatment is received.

Neglect in sport

This could include the lack of care, guidance, supervision or protection that may be caused by:

• Exposure to unnecessary cold or heat.

• Exposure to unhygienic conditions, lack of food, water or medical care.

• Non-intervention in bullying or taunting.

Neglect, as well as being the result of a deliberate act, can also be caused through the omission or the failure to act or protect.

Signs of possible neglect:

• Constant hunger

• Poor personal hygiene

• Constant tiredness

• Poor state of clothing

• Frequent lateness or unexplained non-attendance at school

• Untreated medical problems

• Low self esteem

• Poor peer relationships

• Stealing

Physical Abuse

Physical Abuse may involve the actual or attempted physical injury to a child or vulnerable adult including hitting, shaking, throwing, poisoning, burning, scalding, drowning, suffocating or otherwise harming them.

Physical Abuse may also be caused when a parent or carer feigns the symptoms of or deliberately causes ill health to a child whom they are looking after. This situation is described as Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy. A person may do this because they need or enjoy the attention they receive through having a sick child.

Physical abuse may also be a deliberate act, omission or failure to protect.

Physical Abuse in Sport

This may include bodily harm caused by lack of care, attention or knowledge that may be caused by:

• Over training or dangerous training of athletes.

• Over playing an athlete.

• Failure to do a risk assessment of physical limits or pre-existing medical conditions.

• Administering, condoning or failure to intervene in drug use.

Signs of possible physical abuse:

Most children will sustain cuts and bruises throughout childhood. These are likely to occur in boney parts of the body like elbows, shins and knees. In most cases injuries or bruising will be genuinely accidental. An important indicator of physical abuse is where bruises or injuries are unexplained or the explanation does not fit the injury or the injury appears on parts of the body where accidental injuries are unlikely e.g. on the cheeks or thighs. The age of the child must also be considered. Signs of possible physical

abuse include:

Unexplained injuries or burns, particularly if they are recurrent, improbable excuses given to explain injuries.

• Refusal to discuss injuries.
• Fear of parents being approached for an explanation.
• Untreated injuries or delays in reporting them.
• Excessive physical punishment to themselves.
• Arms and legs kept covered in hot weather.
• Avoidance of swimming, physical education etc.
• Fear of returning home.
• Aggression towards others.
• Running away.

When considering the possibility of non-accidental injury it is important to remember that injuries may have occurred for other reasons e.g. skin disorders, rare bone diseases.

Sexual Abuse

Sexual abuse involves forcing or enticing a child or vulnerable adult to take part in sexual activities whether or not they are aware of or consent to what is happening. The activities may involve physical contact, including penetrative or non-penetrative acts. This may include non-contact activities such as forcing children or vulnerable adults to look at or be involved in the production of pornographic material, to watch sexual activities or encouraging them to behave in sexually inappropriate ways.  Boys and girls can be sexually abused by males and/or females, including persons to whom they are not related and by other young people. This includes people from all walks of life.

Sexual Abuse in Sport

This could include contact and non-contact activities and may be caused by:

• Exposure to sexually explicit inappropriate language, jokes or pornographic material
• Inappropriate touching
• Having any sexual activity or relationship
• Creating opportunities to access children or vulnerable adults’ bodies

Not all children or vulnerable adults are able to tell that they have been sexually assaulted. Changes in their behaviour may be a signal that something has happened. It is important to note that there may be no physical or behavioural signs to suggest that a child or vulnerable adult has been sexually assaulted.

A child or vulnerable adult who is distressed may display some of the following physical, behavioural or medical signs that should alert you to a problem. It is the combination and frequency of these that may indicate sexual abuse. Always seek advice.

Signs of possible sexual abuse:

• Behavioural
• Lack of trust in adults or over familiarity with adults
• Fear of a particular adult
• Social isolation - withdrawn or introversion

• Sleep disturbance (nightmares, bed-wetting, fear of sleeping alone, needing a night light)
• Running away from home
• Girls taking over the mothering role
• Sudden school problems e.g. falling standards, truancy
• Reluctance or refusal to participate in physical activity or to change clothes for games
• Low self-esteem
• Drug, alcohol or solvent abuse
• Display of sexual knowledge beyond child’s age e.g. French kissing
• Unusual interest in the genitals of adults, children or animals
• Fear of bathrooms, showers, closed doors
• Abnormal sexual drawings
• Fear of medical examinations
• Developmental regression

Appendix A

• Poor peer relationships
• Over sexualised behaviour
• Compulsive masturbation
• Stealing
• Irrational fears
• Psychosomatic factors e.g. recurrent abdominal or headache pain
• Sexual promiscuity
• Eating disorders

Physical or Medical signs

• Sleeping problems, nightmares, fear of the dark
• Bruises, scratches, bite marks to the thighs or genital areas
• Anxiety, depression
• Eating disorder e.g. anorexia nervosa or bulimia
• Discomfort/difficulty in walking or sitting
• Pregnancy - particularly when reluctant to name the father
• Pain on passing urine, recurring urinary tract problem, vaginal infections or genital damage
• Venereal disease/sexually transmitted diseases
• Soiling or wetting in children who have been trained
• Self-mutilation, suicide attempts
• Itchiness, soreness, discharge, unexplained bleeding from the rectum, vagina or penis
• Stained underwear
• Unusual genital odour

Negative Discrimination (including racism)

Children and vulnerable adults may experience harassment or negative discrimination because of their race or ethnic origin, socioeconomic status, culture, age, disability, gender, sexuality or religious beliefs. Although not in itself a category of abuse, it may be necessary for the purposes of the Child and Vulnerable Adult Protection Policy and Procedures, for negative discriminatory behaviour to be categorised as emotional abuse.

Important Note: All organisations working with children and vulnerable adults including those operating where black and ethnic communities are numerically small, should address institutional racism, defined in the MacPherson Inquiry report on Stephen Lawrence as:

‘The collective failure by an organisation to provide appropriate and professional service to people on account of their

race, culture and/or religion’.

Bullying

It is important to recognise that in some cases of abuse, it may not always be an adult abusing a young person or vulnerable adult.

It can occur that the abuser may be a young person, for example in the case of bullying. See Appendix K Guidelines for Identifying and Managing Bullying.

Section 7 – Useful Contacts

Social Work Services Group

The Scottish Office

James Craig Walk

Edinburgh

EH3 3BA

Telephone: 0131-556 8400

Children in Scotland

Princes House

5 Shandwick Place

Edinburgh

EH2 4RG

Telephone: 0131-228 8484

Volunteer Development Scotland

72 Murray Place

Stirling

FK8 2BX

Telephone: 01786 479593

 NSPCC  0808 800 5000

Childline  0800 1111

Section 6 – Application Forms

You have a right of access to information held on you and other rights under the Data Protection Act 1988.   Scottish Women’s Football is committed to ensuring that all members in positions that require contact with children or vulnerable adults are suitable to do so. In accordance with Scottish Women’s Football’s Child and Vulnerable Adult Protection Policy, all members whose position requires contact with children and/or vulnerable adults must complete this application form, prior to appointment.

Personal Details

Appendix B

Qualifications and Previous Experience of Working with Children or vulnerable Adults (include name of organisation, responsibilities/duties, length of time involved and reasons for leaving)

Referees

Please provide details of 2 referees. At least one should have knowledge of your previous work with children and/or vulnerable adults. These individuals may be contacted for the purposes of verifying the information contained in this form.

Please provide details of relevant experience, principal achievements, personal skills and qualities, voluntary work and explain how

you might use them in this post. (Use a separate sheet if necessary)

.

I am aware that in accordance with the Data Protection Act 1998, information provided on this application form will be stored for the purposes of processing the data for recruitment and monitoring the recruitment process. If appointed I am aware that this information will be stored for the purposes of enabling relevant organisation procedures.

I have completed this form accurately and truthfully and to the best of my knowledge.