Poole & Bournemouth Pickleball Club is committed to ensuring that all safeguarding concerns are handled promptly, appropriately, and sensitively.
1. Recognising a Concern
A safeguarding concern may arise when:
- A child discloses abuse or neglect
- You witness concerning behaviour
- You notice signs of possible harm or changes in behaviour
- A concern is raised by another person
You do not need proof—reasonable concern is enough to act.
2. Immediate Action
If a child or young person is in immediate danger or requires urgent medical attention:
- Call 999 immediately
- Inform the Club Welfare Officer as soon as possible
3. Reporting the Concern
All safeguarding concerns must be reported as soon as possible, and no later than 24 hours after becoming aware of the issue.
You must:
- Report the concern to the Club Welfare Officer
- Provide clear and factual information (what you saw, heard, or were told)
- Avoid making assumptions or investigating yourself
If the concern involves the Welfare Officer, report directly to:
- Another committee member, or
- The relevant safeguarding lead at Pickleball England
4. Recording the Concern
A written record must be made including:
- Date, time, and location of the concern
- Details of what was observed or disclosed
- Names of those involved
- Any action taken
Records must be:
- Accurate and factual
- Stored securely and confidentially
5. Response & Timescales
Once a concern is reported:
- The Club Welfare Officer will acknowledge the report within 24 hours
- The concern will be reviewed and appropriate action initiated within 48 hours
This may include:
- Monitoring the situation
- Speaking to parents/carers (where appropriate)
- Referring the concern to:
- Local safeguarding authorities
- The NSPCC
- Pickleball England
More serious concerns will be referred immediately to external safeguarding agencies without delay.
6. Confidentiality
- Information will only be shared on a need-to-know basis
- The child’s welfare will always take priority over confidentiality
- All reports will be handled in line with data protection requirements
7. Whistleblowing
All members, volunteers and coaches have a duty to report concerns.
- You will be supported when raising a concern in good faith
- Concerns can be raised without fear of retaliation
- Failure to report concerns may result in disciplinary action
8. Ongoing Support
The club will:
- Support the child or young person involved
- Support the person who reported the concern
- Cooperate fully with external agencies