Child Protection - Good Practice for Volunteers

It is the policy of Hope In The Valley to:
- have a high level of awareness of the issues;
- act to prevent any possible breaches;
- recognise and report any such breaches.

ALL VOLUNTEERS HAVE A DUTY OF CARE TO ENSURE THAT ALL REASONABLE STEPS ARE TAKEN TO PROVIDE A SAFE ENVIRONMENT FOR RIDERS

The following notes cannot be exhaustive – they are guidelines only.

When helping children:
1. Have another adult in sight.
2. If you touch them in an inappropriate place, say “sorry” immediately and so that another adult hears you.
3. If they are distressed by anything that any Hope in the Valley volunteer, including yourself, has done, report the matter immediately to the Instructor, the Group Child Protection Officer, or a Group Officer.

You must refer. You must not investigate.

If you suspect a child is being abused physically, sexually or emotionally:

1. Keep calm. Do not be shocked. Try to act normally.
2. Do not investigate – do not question.
3. Do not challenge parents/carers about your concerns.
4. Tell the Group Child Protection Officer or an Instructor of your concerns.
5. Record all details as soon as possible, preferably quoting the child’s own words, concerning an incident that supports your suspicions. Sign, date and keep these.

Never agree to keep a secret. You must inform others.

IN AN EMERGENCY

If you cannot speak to the Group Child Protection Officer, an Instructor or other Group Officer, and the situation merits immediate attention, contact either the police or social services/social work department, and inform us as quickly as possible of the action that you have taken.

Child Protection Officer:

Mrs Sheila Blair