Safeguarding & Child Protection Policy

Our Commitment

At Baller Link Up, the safety, welfare and wellbeing of every player is our highest priority.

We are committed to creating a safe, positive and inclusive environment where children and young people can participate in football, develop their abilities and pursue their ambitions free from harm, abuse, bullying, discrimination or exploitation.

We recognise that every child has the right to enjoy football in a safe and supportive environment and that safeguarding is the responsibility of everyone involved in our programmes.

Baller Link Up adopts a zero-tolerance approach towards any behaviour that may place a child or vulnerable individual at risk.

We expect all coaches, staff, volunteers, players, parents, guardians and visitors to share our commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to:

  • Protect children and young people who participate in Baller Link Up activities.

  • Provide clear safeguarding responsibilities for staff, coaches and volunteers.

  • Promote a culture of safety, respect and accountability.

  • Establish clear procedures for identifying, reporting and responding to concerns.

  • Ensure safeguarding considerations are embedded throughout all activities, programmes and services.

Who This Policy Applies To

This policy applies to:

  • Players

  • Trialists

  • Parents and guardians

  • Coaches

  • Staff

  • Volunteers

  • Scouts attending Baller Link Up events

  • Partner organisations

  • Visitors attending Baller Link Up activities

This policy applies to all Baller Link Up activities, including:

  • Training sessions

  • Matches and tournaments

  • Assessment sessions

  • Talent identification events

  • Player reviews

  • Online communications

  • Social media activity

  • Educational workshops

  • Player care programmes

  • RESET Programme activities

Our Safeguarding Principles

Baller Link Up is committed to:

  • The welfare of children and young people will always take precedence over sporting, financial or organisational interests.

  • We will take reasonable steps to ensure all activities are delivered within safe and appropriate environments.

  • Players will be encouraged to express their views, concerns and experiences and will be treated with dignity and respect.

  • All players should feel welcomed, valued and included regardless of background, ability, race, religion, gender, disability or personal circumstances.

  • Every safeguarding concern will be treated seriously and responded to appropriately.

  • We recognise the importance of working collaboratively with parents, schools, clubs and relevant agencies to promote player welfare.

Safer Recruitment

Baller Link Up is committed to ensuring that individuals working with children are suitable to do so.

Where applicable, Baller Link Up will:

  • Obtain appropriate references.

  • Verify identity and qualifications.

  • Conduct Enhanced DBS checks.

  • Require safeguarding training.

  • Assess suitability for working with children and young people.

  • Monitor professional conduct and behaviour.

Any individual who is deemed unsuitable to work with children will not be permitted to participate in activities involving young people.

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

Baller Link Up has appointed a Designated Safeguarding Lead responsible for overseeing safeguarding arrangements.

Designated Safeguarding Lead

Tana Rasekh

Email: safeguarding@ballerlinkup.com

The DSL is responsible for:

  • Receiving safeguarding concerns.

  • Maintaining safeguarding records.

  • Liaising with external agencies where necessary.

  • Providing safeguarding guidance.

  • Supporting staff and volunteers.

  • Monitoring safeguarding practices across the organisation.