Paddle Northern Ireland Safeguarding team are here to support children and adults involved in paddle activity and offer support and guidance to clubs, volunteers, coaches, leaders and providers.
We all play a role in ensuring that participating in Paddlesport is a positive and safe experience for everyone. Paddle Northern Ireland is committed to ensuring that everyone who takes part in the sport should be able to do so in an enjoyable and safe environment, which promotes inclusion and protects from harm, bullying and abuse.
What is safeguarding?
Safeguarding means the protection of people’s physical and mental health, their wellbeing, and their human rights. Its objective is to support participant’s welfare and to keep everyone safe.
Who needs safeguarding?
Safeguarding applies to everyone, and it is each person’s responsibility to make sure that the most vulnerable people within our society are protected from harm.
Children, young people, and vulnerable adults may require more safeguarding support and consideration. This includes adults who may receive help from care teams, as well as adults who have mental health conditions, learning disabilities, or physical disabilities.
Safeguarding in Clubs
Paddle Northern Ireland strongly recommends that all clubs with members or participants aged under 18 adopt a safeguarding policy and supporting procedures and that all members are aware of it.