Richmond Canoe Club is committed to ensuring that everyone can enjoy canoeing in a safe environment where they are welcomed, supported, encouraged, and protected from any form of poor practice, abuse, and neglect.

Should you have any concerns or questions about welfare, please contact the Welfare Officers (Catherine Pickering, Michael Grant) at welfare@richmondcanoe.club or complete our Listening to Young Paddlers form (this form can also be used by parents or adult members).

If you or someone else needs immediate medical attention or is at risk of immediate harm or danger, call emergency services for the police or ambulance (999 or 112) immediately.

Richmond Canoe Club Safeguarding Policy

Richmond Canoe Club is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults. Our safeguarding practices align with statutory responsibilities, government guidance, best practices, and the requirements set by British Canoeing.

Key Principles:

  1. Welfare First: The welfare and interests of children and vulnerable adults are always our top priority.
  2. Inclusive Environment: We ensure that everyone—regardless of age, ability, disability, gender reassignment, race, religion, belief, sex, sexual orientation, or socio-economic background—has a safe, positive, and enjoyable experience at Richmond Canoe Club.
  3. Special Care for Vulnerable Groups: We recognize that some individuals, such as disabled children, young people, or those from ethnic minority communities, may be more vulnerable to abuse. We accept our responsibility to take reasonable and appropriate steps to protect their welfare.

Our Commitments:

  • Promoting Safety: We prioritize the safety and well-being of children, young people, and vulnerable adults.
  • Training and Awareness: We provide training to help everyone understand their safeguarding roles and responsibilities, and to recognize and respond to abuse, neglect, and safeguarding concerns.
  • Taking Action: We act immediately and appropriately when safeguarding concerns or incidents are reported, supporting those who raise or disclose concerns.
  • Confidential Records: We maintain accurate, confidential, and secure records of all safeguarding concerns.
  • Robust Procedures: We implement strong safeguarding measures to prevent unsuitable individuals from working or volunteering with Richmond Canoe Club.

Policy and Compliance:

Our safeguarding policy and procedures are mandatory for everyone involved with Richmond Canoe Club. Failure to comply will be addressed promptly and may lead to dismissal or exclusion from the club.

Policy Review:

This policy will be reviewed annually after its development and every three years thereafter. Reviews will also occur:

  • In response to changes in legislation or government guidance.
  • As required by the Kingston and Richmond Safeguarding Children Partnership or British Canoeing.
  • Following any significant change or event affecting safeguarding practices.

By adhering to these principles, Richmond Canoe Club strives to create a safe and supportive environment for all.

British Canoeing Logo

Richmond Canoe Club adheres to the policies of its national governing body, British Canoeing, which include:

Paddle UK Safeguarding Policies