15.1 Purpose
- Provide a safe, inclusive environment for children.
- Protect safety, welfare, and rights.
- Comply with Child Care Act 1991, Children First Act 2015, and Tusla guidance.
15.2 Principles
- Safety is everyone’s responsibility
- Child’s best interests are paramount
- Early intervention improves outcomes
- Children have the right to be heard
- Parents/guardians have the right to involvement
- Multi-agency collaboration is essential
15.3 Roles & Responsibilities
- Club Management Committee: Policies, DLP appointments, safeguarding training
- Children’s Officers: Monitor activities, maintain records, support staff & parents
- Designated Liaison Person (DLP): First contact for safeguarding concerns; reports to Tusla
- Staff & Volunteers: Complete training, report concerns immediately
- Parents/Guardians: Support policies, communicate changes, encourage safe participation
15.4 Recruitment & Vetting
- All staff & volunteers are Garda Vetted
- Re-vetting every 2–4 years
- Recruitment includes interviews, references, probation, and ongoing reviews
15.5 Child Protection & Reporting
- Report suspected abuse to DLP without delay
- Staff do not investigate, they report
- Flow: Observe → Notify DLP → DLP assesses → Tusla contact if necessary → Maintain confidential records
15.6 Anti-Bullying & Behaviour Management
- Bullying is repeated, intentional harm
- Allegations are investigated promptly
- Preventative strategies: staff training, supervision, awareness campaigns
15.7 Online Safety
- Staff & children follow social media codes
- Personal details never shared
- Reports of online concerns go to DLP immediately
15.8 Mandated Persons
- Must report concerns above a defined threshold to Tusla
- Assist Tusla in assessments
- Mandated staff receive specific training
15.9 Record Keeping
- Secure storage (digital & paper)
- Access limited to authorised personnel
- Retention according to legislative and club guidelines
15.10 Emergency Procedures
- First aid and medical emergencies handled by trained personnel
- Missing child, fire, and evacuation procedures in place
15.11 Inclusion & Equality
- Children welcome regardless of gender, ability, ethnicity, or religion
- Adjustments for additional needs
- Anti-discrimination enforced
15.12 Training & Awareness
- Mandatory induction for all staff & volunteers
- Refresher training every 2–3 years
- Parent workshops and info sessions offered
15.13 Policy Review
- Reviewed annually or after incidents
- Changes communicated to all stakeholders
16. Changes to Terms & Services
- The Club may modify, suspend, or terminate Services or these Terms.
- Schedule changes may occur due to staffing, hall availability, or weather.
17. Dispute Resolution
- Attempt to resolve disputes with Club management first.
- Unresolved disputes may go to mediation or the Irish Small Claims Court.
18. Severability
- If any clause is invalid or unenforceable, the remainder remains in effect.
19. Contact Information
Phone: 086 272 6662
Ennis Gymnastics Club
Email: info@ennisgymnasticsclub.com