Privacy Policy

Glide Bike Classes LTD – Child Safeguarding Policy
Company Name: Glide Bike Classes LTD
Date Created: 17.04.2024
Review Date: 17.04.2025

1. Policy Statement
At Glide Bike Classes LTD, the safety and well-being of the children attending our classes is our highest priority. We are committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and positive learning environment where children are protected from harm, abuse, and neglect. We recognize our responsibility to safeguard all children, including those with special educational needs (SEN), in accordance with the statutory guidance provided by 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, parents, and any other individuals involved in our classes.

2. Scope of the Policy
This policy applies to:

• All children (aged 4-12 years old) attending Glide Bike Classes LTD at leisure centres.

• Coaches and employees of Glide Bike Classes LTD.

• Parents/guardians present during classes.

• Volunteers and third-party contractors who may be involved in our activities.

3. Principles
We believe:

• The safety and welfare of children is paramount.

• Every child, regardless of age, gender, ability, race, religion, or ethnicity, has the right to be safe and protected from harm.

• Parents play a key role in safeguarding their children during our sessions.

• Coaches, staff, and volunteers have a duty to act responsibly and report any concerns regarding child safety.

• Children with SEN may need additional support, and we are committed to ensuring their individual needs are met.

4. Safeguarding Responsibilities
4.1 Coaches and Staff

• Primary Coach: Glide Bike Classes LTD employs one coach per class of 6 children. All coaches undergo enhanced DBS checks before employment.

• Training: All coaches will receive child safeguarding training, with regular updates as required.

• Supervision: The coach is responsible for overseeing the safety of children during the two-hour classes.

4.2 Parents/Guardians

• Parents or guardians must be present throughout the class to observe their children and provide any necessary support, especially for children with SEN.

• Parents are responsible for their child's behaviour and for informing the coach of any additional needs or concerns prior to the session.

4.3 Reporting Concerns

• Coaches are trained to identify signs of abuse and are obligated to report any concerns to the designated safeguarding lead (DSL).

• Parents are encouraged to raise concerns with the coach or DSL directly if they observe anything troubling during the session.

5. Safeguarding Procedures
5.1 Class Set-Up

• Classes are held in a safe, supervised environment at local leisure centres. Each class accommodates a maximum of 6 children with one coach and parents present.

• Classes are scheduled for weekends and during school holidays, lasting for 2 hours.

 

5.2 Child Protection and SEN Support

• Glide Bike Classes LTD welcomes children of all abilities, including those with SEN.

• Individual plans will be created for children with SEN where appropriate, in collaboration with parents to ensure their specific needs are met.

• Extra attention will be given to ensure children with SEN are supported appropriately and feel included.

5.3 Ratio of Children to Coach

• The ratio of 6 children to 1 coach ensures that each child receives individual attention, and the coach can manage the group safely.

5.4 Physical Contact

• Physical contact with children will be kept to a minimum and will only occur when absolutely necessary for safety (e.g., assisting a child with balance).

• Any physical interaction will be explained to the child and parent beforehand.

• Coaches will respect personal boundaries and ensure that all touch is appropriate, non-intrusive, and required for the activity.

5.5 Health and Safety

• Helmets and appropriate protective gear must be worn by all children during the session.

• The leisure centre environment will be assessed for risks, and steps will be taken to ensure safety (e.g., clearing obstacles).

• First aid provisions will be available at all locations, and the coach will be first aid trained.

6. Managing Allegations and Concerns
6.1 Allegations Against Staff

• Any allegation made against a coach, staff member, or volunteer will be taken seriously. Allegations will be reported immediately to the DSL, who will follow UK safeguarding protocols and, if necessary, involve the local authority’s Designated Officer for Allegations (LADO).

6.2 Reporting Concerns

• Any concerns regarding child safety, abuse, or neglect should be reported to the DSL immediately.

• If there is a concern that a child is in immediate danger, emergency services should be contacted immediately by dialling 999.

7. Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)
Name of DSL: Russell James
Contact Information: Russell James
113 Stanmer Villas, Brighton BN1 7HN. Tel:07930676035 email russell@glidelearntoride.com

• The DSL is responsible for overseeing safeguarding practices, managing reports of concern, and liaising with external agencies when necessary.

8. Confidentiality and Record Keeping

• All safeguarding concerns will be recorded securely and shared only with individuals and agencies who need to know. This is in line with data protection regulations (GDPR) and safeguarding protocols.

• Records will be maintained by the DSL and will only be accessible by authorised personnel.

9. Code of Conduct for Staff
To ensure the safety of children, all staff and volunteers at Glide Bike Classes LTD will:

• Treat all children with respect and dignity.

• Avoid one-on-one situations with a child where they cannot be observed.

• Never use inappropriate language or behaviour in front of children.
  10. Policy Review

• Approved by: Russell James
  Position: Director
  Date: 17.04.2024

• This safeguarding policy will be reviewed annually or whenever there are changes in relevant legislation. Any changes or updates will be communicated to staff and parents.

• Avoid any unnecessary physical contact.

• Be vigilant in recognising signs of abuse or neglect and report these to the DSL.

This policy reflects the commitment of Glide Bike Classes LTD to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children attending our sessions.