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