Child Protection
The BGA recognises that sport can and does have a very powerful and positive influence on young people. Not only can it provide opportunities for enjoyment and achievement; it can also develop valuable qualities such as self-esteem, leadership and teamwork. These positive effects can only take place if sport is in the right hands – in the hands of those who place the welfare of all young people first and adopt practices that support, protect and empower them.
Most youngsters happily and safely participate in sport under the watchful and concerned care of dedicated instructors and club members. However, the reality is also that abuse does take place in sport and in some cases members of clubs and associations have been convicted. Every adult has a legal and moral responsibility to protect young people and disabled adults in sport from abuse.
The BGA recognises that the sport of gliding has a duty of care towards young and vulnerable participants and can help to protect them from abuse. (From Guidelines for Governing Bodies of Sport and Local Authorities, Sports Coach UK (NCF), NSPCC.)
The BGA recognises that for Child Protection purposes, a child refers to any person under the age of 18.
Child Protection Policy, Procedures and Guidance
BGA Child Protection Policy and Procedures
Child Protection In Gliding – FAQs
Child Protection & Safeguarding Policies, Procedures & Templates for club use.
The BGA Young People in Gliding ‘Blue Card’ Guide provides a succinct guide to Child Protection Good Practice
Child Protection Officer
BGA Good Practice Guidance For Child Protection Officers and Deputy Officers
Child Protection Training
Child protection in sport and physical activity training – An NSPCC Learning resource
Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) certificate
Guidance on how to obtain a DBS certificate
Guidance on flying supervision of young pilots
Pilots under the age of 18 may have exemplary handling skills but a different attitude to risk and little experience of taking important decisions. Below the age of 16, children are told what to do both at home and at school. It would be rare for any such person to have experience of taking decisions with severe adverse personal consequences if the decision were wrong. But taking such decisions is an intrinsic part of flying a glider. Individual supervision including briefing is crucial for the safety of young pilots.
Managing Flying Risk – Supervision
Safeguarding
For guidance explaining safeguarding in a sports setting, please watch this animated short video
Child Protection Club Guidance – Overnight Camping
BGA Child Protection Lead
The BGA Child Protection lead is Karon Matton Karon@gliding.co.uk