Safeguarding & Privacy Policy
1. Policy Statement
At Pedalwise, the safety and well-being of all participants attending our classes is our highest priority. We are dedicated to creating a safe, inclusive, and positive learning environment where individuals are protected from harm, abuse, and neglect. We recognise our responsibility to safeguard all participants, including those with additional needs, in line with statutory guidance under UK law, including the Children Act 1989, Children Act 2004, and the Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018) framework.
This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, participants, parents, and any other individuals involved in our classes.
2. Scope of the Policy
This policy covers:
* All children and adults attending Pedalwise classes at leisure centres or other venues.
* Coaches and employees of Pedalwise.
* Parents, guardians, or carers present during sessions.
* Volunteers and third-party contractors involved in any Pedalwise activities.
3. Principles
We believe:
* The safety and welfare of every participant is paramount.
* Everyone, regardless of age, gender, ability, race, religion, or ethnicity, has the right to be safe and protected from harm.
* Parents and carers play a key role in supporting the safety and progress of their children during sessions.
* Coaches, staff, and volunteers have a duty to act responsibly and report any safeguarding concerns.
* Participants with additional needs may require tailored support, and we are committed to meeting their individual requirements.
4. Safeguarding Responsibilities
4.1 Coaches and Staff
* Coaching Standards Pedalwise employs one qualified coach per class. All coaches hold enhanced DBS checks before starting employment.
* Training: All coaches receive safeguarding training, with regular updates to maintain high standards.
* Supervision: Coaches are responsible for ensuring the safety and welfare of participants throughout each session.
4.2 Parents/Guardians
* Parents or guardians must remain on-site for the duration of children’s classes to observe and provide any required support, especially for those with additional needs.
* Parents are responsible for informing coaches of any health issues, additional needs, or concerns prior to the session.
4.3 Reporting Concerns
* Coaches are trained to recognise signs of abuse or neglect and are required to report concerns directly to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).
* Parents or participants are encouraged to speak to the coach or DSL if they observe anything concerning during a session.
5. Safeguarding Procedures
5.1 Class Set-Up
* Classes are held in safe, supervised environments, with small group sizes to ensure individual attention and effective learning.
5.2 Additional Needs Support
* Pedalwise welcomes participants of all abilities.
* Where appropriate, individual plans will be created in collaboration with parents or participants to ensure specific needs are met and everyone feels included.
5.3 Ratio of Participants to Coach
* The small ratio of participants to coach ensures individual focus and safe class management.
5.4 Physical Contact
* Physical contact will be kept to a minimum and used only when necessary for safety, such as assisting with balance or bike adjustments.
* Coaches will explain any required physical contact beforehand and will always respect personal boundaries.
5.5 Health and Safety
* Helmets and suitable protective gear must be worn by all participants during sessions.
* Venues will be assessed for safety risks, with measures taken to create a safe learning environment.
* All coaches are first aid trained, and first aid provisions are available at each location.
6. Managing Allegations and Concerns
6.1 Allegations Against Staff
Any allegations made against a coach, staff member, or volunteer will be treated seriously and reported immediately to the DSL, following UK safeguarding protocols, including contact with the local authority’s Designated Officer for Allegations (LADO) if necessary.
6.2 Reporting Concerns
* Concerns regarding safety, abuse, or neglect should be raised immediately with the DSL.
* If a child or participant is believed to be in immediate danger, emergency services should be contacted by dialling 999.
7. Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)
Name of DSL: Zak Dawson
Contact Information: Zak Dawson
Address here
Tel: 0777777777777
Email: zak@pedalwise.co.uk
The DSL is responsible for overseeing safeguarding practices, managing reports of concern, and liaising with external agencies when needed.
8. Confidentiality and Record Keeping
* All safeguarding concerns will be recorded securely and shared only with those who need to know, in line with GDPR and safeguarding protocols.
* Records will be maintained by the DSL and accessible only to authorised personnel.
9. Code of Conduct for Staff
To ensure participant safety, all staff and volunteers at Pedalwise will:
* Treat all participants with respect and dignity.
* Avoid one-to-one situations out of view of others where possible.
* Never use inappropriate language or behaviour.
* Avoid unnecessary physical contact.
* Remain vigilant for signs of abuse or neglect and report them immediately to the DSL.
10. Policy Review
Approved by: Zak Dawson
Position: Director
Date:
This safeguarding policy will be reviewed annually, or earlier if there are changes to relevant legislation. All updates will be communicated to staff, volunteers, and participants.
This policy reflects Pedalwise’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of everyone attending our sessions.