Safeguarding Policy

Child Protection Policy Statement

Chess Rising Stars London Academy (CRSLA) follows a Safeguarding Policy in line with the English Chess Federation guidance materials.

CRSLA promotes and develops chess. It acknowledges the duty of care to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and young people aged up to 18 years and is committed to ensuring safeguarding practice reflects statutory responsibilities, government guidance and complies with best practice.

The policy recognizes that the welfare and interests of children and young people are paramount in all circumstances as enshrined in the Children Act 1989. It aims to ensure that regardless of age, gender, religion or beliefs, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or identity, or socioeconomic background, all children

• have a positive and enjoyable experience of chess in a safe and child centered environment
• are protected from harm and abuse whilst participating in chess or outside of the activity.

It also aims to provide staff and volunteers with the overarching principles that guide our approach to child protection.

CRSLA acknowledges that some children, including disabled children and young people or those from ethnic minority communities, can be particularly vulnerable to abuse and we accept the responsibility to take reasonable and appropriate steps to ensure their welfare. As part of our safeguarding policy CRSLA will

• promote and prioritize the safety and wellbeing of children and young people
• value, listen to and respect children and young people
• ensure everyone understands their roles and responsibilities in respect of safeguarding and is provided with appropriate learning opportunities to recognize, identify and respond to signs of abuse, neglect and other safeguarding concerns relating to children and young people
• make clear who the designated Lead for Safeguarding and Safeguarding Officer is/are and their roles.
• ensure appropriate action is taken in the event of incidents/concerns of abuse and support provided to the individual/s who raise or disclose the concern
• ensure that confidential, detailed and accurate records of all safeguarding concerns are maintained and securely stored
• prevent the employment/deployment of unsuitable individuals
• ensure robust safeguarding arrangements and procedures are in operation
• share concerns with agencies who need to know, involving parents and children appropriately.

The policy and procedures will be widely promoted and are mandatory for everyone involved in CRSLA including staff, officers, volunteers and anyone working on behalf of the CRSLA. Failure to comply with the policy and procedures will be addressed without delay and may ultimately result in dismissal/exclusion from the organization.