Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy

Last updated: 13 July 2026

1. Our Commitment

Broken Boards Ltd is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of every child and young person who participates in our activities.

We believe that every child has the right to participate in sport in a safe, supportive and inclusive environment, free from abuse, neglect, exploitation and discrimination.

The welfare of the child is always our primary concern.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all employees, freelance coaches, volunteers and anyone acting on behalf of Broken Boards Ltd.

For the purposes of this policy, a child is anyone under the age of 18.

3. Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

Broken Boards Ltd has a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) responsible for safeguarding matters.

Designated Safeguarding Lead:
Carina Santos

The DSL is responsible for:

  • Receiving safeguarding concerns.

  • Keeping appropriate safeguarding records.

  • Seeking advice from relevant agencies where necessary.

  • Making referrals to Children's Social Care, the Police or other appropriate authorities when required.

  • Ensuring safeguarding procedures are followed across the organisation.

4. Responsibilities

Everyone working for or representing Broken Boards Ltd has a responsibility to safeguard children.

All staff, coaches and volunteers must:

  • Place the welfare of children first.

  • Be familiar with this policy.

  • Remain alert to signs of abuse or neglect.

  • Report any safeguarding concerns immediately.

  • Maintain appropriate professional boundaries.

  • Respect the privacy and dignity of every child.

Parents and carers will be informed of safeguarding concerns where appropriate unless doing so could place a child at increased risk.

5. Recognising Abuse

Abuse may be physical, emotional, sexual or involve neglect.

Possible indicators include, but are not limited to:

  • Unexplained injuries.

  • Sudden changes in behaviour.

  • Fearfulness or withdrawal.

  • Inappropriate sexual behaviour or knowledge.

  • Poor hygiene or persistent unmet basic needs.

  • Reluctance to go home or fear of certain individuals.

Staff are not expected to investigate concerns but must report anything that causes concern, even if they are unsure.

6. Reporting Concerns

If a member of staff, coach or volunteer has a safeguarding concern, they must report it to the Designated Safeguarding Lead as soon as possible.

The DSL will determine the appropriate course of action, which may include:

  • Recording the concern.

  • Seeking advice from Children's Social Care.

  • Making a referral to the appropriate authority.

  • Contacting the Police if a criminal offence is suspected.

If a child is believed to be at immediate risk of harm, emergency services should be contacted without delay.

All safeguarding concerns will be recorded accurately and treated confidentially.

7. Professional Conduct

Everyone representing Broken Boards Ltd must:

  • Always act in the best interests of children.

  • Treat all participants fairly and with respect.

  • Use appropriate language and behaviour.

  • Avoid unnecessary one-to-one situations wherever possible.

  • Never engage in behaviour that could be interpreted as abusive, intimidating or inappropriate.

  • Report any concerns regarding the conduct of another adult working with children.

8. Confidentiality

Safeguarding information will only be shared with those who need to know in order to protect a child or comply with legal obligations.

Information will be handled in accordance with our Privacy Policy and UK data protection legislation.

9. Safer Recruitment and Training

Broken Boards Ltd is committed to safer recruitment practices.

Where appropriate to their role, coaches and volunteers will receive safeguarding training and undergo relevant pre-engagement checks, including enhanced DBS checks where required.

10. Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if legislation, guidance or organisational practices change.