Safeguarding and Child Protection

 
It is the policy of The Scout Association to safeguard the welfare of all Members by protecting them from physical, sexual and emotional harm.

The Scout Association is committed to:

  • - taking into account in all its considerations and activities the interests and well-being of young people;
  • - respecting the rights, wishes and feelings of the young people with whom it is working
  • - taking all reasonable practicable steps to protect them from physical, sexual and emotional abuse, and
  • - promoting the welfare of young people and their protection within a relationship of trust.
All adults aged eighteen or over, no matter what their role or involvement within Scouting, are responsible for putting this policy into practice at all times.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Please ensure all your adults camping are aware of the Young People First 'Yellow Card' - tri-fold format:
 
 


DOput this code into practice at all times

DO treat everyone with dignity and respect

DO set an example you would wish others to follow

DO treat all young people equally . show no favouritism

DO plan activities that involve more than one other person being present, or at least are within sight and hearing of others

DO follow recommended adult/young people ratios for meetings and activities

DO respect a young person.s right to personal privacy

DO avoid unacceptable situations within a relationship of trust e.g. a sexual relationship with a youth Member over the age of consent

DO have separate sleeping accommodation for young people, adults and Young Leaders working with a younger Section

DO allow young people to talk about any concerns they may have

DO encourage others to challenge any attitudes or behaviours they do not like

DO avoid being drawn into inappropriate attention seeking behaviour e.g. tantrums and crushes

DO follow the Association's 'no alcohol' guidance when young people are in your care

DO make everyone aware of the Association's child protection procedures - young people, parents/carers,Young Leaders and other helpers

DO remember this code even at sensitive moments e.g. when responding to bullying, bereavement or abuse

DO keep other Leaders informed of where you are and what you are doing

DO remember someone else might misinterpret your actions, no matter how well-intentioned

DO take any allegations or concerns of abuse seriously and refer immediately

DO NOT trivialise abuse

DO NOT form a relationship with a young person that is an abuse of trust

DO NOT permit abusive peer activities e.g. initiation ceremonies, bullying

DO NOT engage in inappropriate behaviour or contact . physical, verbal, sexual

DO NOT play physical contact games with young people

DO NOT make suggestive remarks or threats to a young person, even in fun

DO NOT use inappropriate language . writing, phoning, email or internet

DO NOT let allegations, suspicions, or concerns about abuse go unreported

DO NOT just rely on your good name to protect you

   

To get copies of the yellow card, including the enlarged version, contact the Scout Information Centre on 0845 300 1818 or info.centre@scout.org.uk