Child Protection Policy

Overview

Hawkes Bay Rowing Club is committed to safeguarding the well-being of all children in our care. We acknowledge our responsibility to promote safe practices and protect children from harm, abuse, and exploitation. For the purposes of this policy, a child is defined as anyone under the age of 18 years.

Policy Objectives

The objectives of this policy are to:

• Promote children's health and well-being by providing safe rowing activities.
• Implement measures to protect children from abuse.
• Require members and volunteers to adhere to this Child Protection Policy.
• Address allegations of misconduct or abuse following established procedures.
• Regularly monitor and assess the implementation of this policy.

Procedures

Screening

We will ensure that suitable and appropriate volunteers, including parents, are engaged to work with children.

Child Protection Officer

The Regatta Manager will serve as the Child Protection Officer, responsible for:

• Ensuring understanding and adherence to child protection procedures.
• Acting as the main point of contact for child protection issues.
• Reporting to the Hawkes Bay Rowing Club Committee.

All child protection matters must be reported to the Club President at the earliest convenience.

Committee Responsibilities

The Hawkes Bay Rowing Club Committee will:

• Keep abreast of developments in child protection legislation.
• Establish and maintain a complaints procedure.
• Keep confidential records of reported cases and actions taken.

Good Practice Protocols

These protocols outline good practice for those working with children:

• Limit physical contact to what's appropriate for the activity.
• Seek permission before initiating physical contact.
• Avoid inappropriate relationships with minors.
• Ensure that photography and filming are appropriate.
• Obtain parental consent for transportation and other than basic first aid.
• Limit one-on-one interactions through social media and email.
• Prevent bullying in all forms.
• Avoid situations where you're alone with a child.

Dealing with Allegations and Concerns

Report any of the following to the Child Protection Officer and Club President:

• Policy violations.
• Disclosures of abuse by a child.
• Suspicions of child abuse.

Responding to Poor Practice

Poor practice is any action that goes against this policy, increasing risk to children:

• Initial concerns should be discussed with the Child Protection Officer, who will then inform the Club President.
• Written notice may be given to those involved if concerns are valid.
• Disciplinary actions will be determined by the Child Protection Officer and Club President, with committee input when possible.

Where Abuse is Suspected or Reported

Prioritise the child's safety and well-being:

• Remove the child from immediate harm.
• Consult the Child Protection Officer, Club President, or an appointed alternative.
• Accurately record all relevant information.
• Consult with necessary parties but avoid acting alone.
• Do not question the child extensively or interact with the alleged offender.
• Notify the Police.