The Water Polo Company

The Water Polo CI Company fully recognises its responsibilities for the protection of children and vulnerable adults.

• Our policy applies to all staff, and volunteers working with the company, ensuring we practice safe recruitment in checking the suitability of staff and volunteers to work with Children and Vulnerable Adults.

• Raising awareness of Child and Vulnerable Adults protection issues and making all staff and volunteers aware of the need to keep them safe. Developing and then implementing procedures for identifying and reporting suspected cases of abuse.

• Supporting Children and Vulnerable Adults who have been abused by contacting the relevant authorities. Establishing a safe environment for Children and Vulnerable Adults.

• We recognise that because of the contact with children, staff and volunteers are well placed to observe the outward signs of abuse. The company will endeavour to
  maintain an environment where children and vulnerable adults feel secure, are encouraged to talk, and are listened to. Ensure children and vulnerable adults know that there are responsible persons available whom they can approach if they are worried.

• We will take account of guidance issued by the Department for Children Schools and Families, The Department of Health and the Independent Safeguarding Authority to:

• Ensure we have a designated senior person for child  & vulnerable adult protection, ensure all staff and

          volunteers know the name of the designated senior person responsible for child protection.

• Ensure all staff and volunteers understand their responsibilities in being alert to the signs of abuse and responsibility for referring any concerns
  to the designated senior person responsible for child protection. Notify social services if there are concerns about a child who is known to be on the child protection register.

• Develop effective links with relevant agencies and co-operate as required with their enquiries regarding child and vulnerable adult protection matters.
• Develop and then follow procedures where an allegation is made against a member of staff or volunteer. Ensure safe recruitment practices are always followed.

We recognise that children and vulnerable adults who are abused or witness violence may find it difficult to develop a sense of self worth. They may feel helplessness, humiliation and some sense of blame. Their behaviour may be challenging and defiant or they may be withdrawn. The company will ensure that the child or vulnerable adult knows that some behaviour is unacceptable but they are valued and not to be blamed for any abuse which has occurred.

The Company will liaise with other agencies that support the child or vulnerable adult such as social services, Child and Adult Mental Health Service, Education Welfare Service and Educational Psychology Service.

Company Appointed Officer 

Date: October 2009