Child Wellbeing and Protection Policy – Statement
 
Many sports and other activities can and do have a very powerful and positive influence on people – especially young people. Not only can they provide opportunities for enjoyment and achievement, they can also develop valuable qualities and skills such as self-esteem, leadership and teamwork. These positive effects can only take place if sport is in the right hands – in the hands of those who place the welfare of all young people first and adopt practices that support, protect and empower them. The reality is that abuse does take place in sport and in some cases coaches and other trusted adults in sport have been convicted of abuse against children and vulnerable adults.
 
Everyone has a duty of care towards children to help to protect them from abuse. It is hoped that this Policy and the supporting procedures will help create a safe environment in our sports club and minimise risk for everyone involved in sport at the Club. It offers all volunteers and players a clear position of Penicuik Athletic Football Club (‘the Club’) and the expected standards to be upheld at all times. In addition, it provides the Club with guidelines for the protection of children.
 
Adopting best practice by everyone will help to safeguard children from potential abuse as well as adults in positions of responsibility from potential false allegations of abuse. The Club is committed to the protection of children and vulnerable adults through the implementation of this policy and the supporting procedures.
 
Andrew Penman
Club President