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Safeguarding Policy

Get Pedal Ready! – Child Safeguarding Policy
Company Name: Get Pedal Ready!
Date Created: 25.04.2025
Review Date: 25.04.2026

1. Policy Statement

At Get Pedal Ready!, the safety and well-being of the children attending our cycling sessions is our top priority. We are committed to providing a fun, safe, inclusive, and positive learning environment where children are protected from harm, abuse, and neglect.

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This policy aligns with UK safeguarding legislation, including:

  • Children Act 1989 & 2004

  • Equality Act 2010

  • Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018)

  • General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) 2018

Refer to nspcc.org.uk/childprotection for further guidance.

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This policy applies to all coaches, assistants, volunteers, parents, and anyone involved in our cycling sessions.

2. Scope of the Policy

This policy applies to:

  • All children (typically aged 4–12 years old) attending Get Pedal Ready! sessions.

  • All Get Pedal Ready! coaches and assistants.

  • Parents/guardians present during sessions.

  • Any volunteers or third-party contractors 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 background, has the right to be safe and protected from harm.

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

  • Coaches and team members have a duty to act responsibly and report any concerns.

  • 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

  • Coach-to-child ratio: We maintain a maximum ratio of 1 coach per 10 children to ensure safety and individual attention. Coaches will never be alone with a child where they cannot be seen by others.

  • DBS Checks: All coaches and team members undergo enhanced DBS checks before joining.

  • Training: All coaches receive safeguarding training, with regular updates.

  • Supervision: The lead coach is responsible for child safety during the full duration of the session.

4.2 Parents/Guardians

  • Parents/guardians are expected to remain nearby (e.g., on-site in the park or leisure centre) for the duration of the session.

  • They are responsible for informing the coach of any medical or additional needs in advance.

  • For younger or SEN children, parents may be asked to provide more direct support.

4.3 Reporting Concerns

  • Coaches are trained to recognise signs of harm or abuse and must report any concerns to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).

  • Parents are encouraged to speak with the coach or DSL if they have any concerns during or after a session.

5. Safeguarding Procedures

5.1 Session Set-Up

  • Sessions take place in safe, well-supervised environments such as local parks or leisure centre grounds.

  • Class sizes are small (max 10 children) with one coach and parents present.

  • Sessions typically run for 1 to 2 hours, on weekends and during school holidays.

5.2 Child Protection and SEN Support

  • We welcome children of all abilities.

  • SEN children may receive tailored support based on their needs, agreed with parents beforehand.

  • We strive to create an inclusive atmosphere where all children feel supported.

5.3 Physical Contact

  • Physical contact is limited and only occurs when essential (e.g., steadying a child for balance or safety).

  • Any contact will be explained beforehand to both child and parent.

  • Coaches will respect children’s personal space and use appropriate, non-intrusive support methods.

5.4 Health and Safety

  • Helmets and appropriate safety gear must be worn at all times during cycling activities.

  • A risk assessment is completed before every session.

  • Coaches are first-aid trained and a first-aid kit is always on-site.

6. Managing Allegations and Concerns

6.1 Allegations Against Staff

  • Any allegations against coaches, assistants, or volunteers will be treated seriously and referred to the DSL immediately.

  • The DSL will follow safeguarding protocols and, if necessary, escalate to the local authority’s Designated Officer (LADO).

6.2 Reporting Concerns

  • Concerns about a child’s safety or welfare must be raised with the DSL without delay.

  • If a child is in immediate danger, emergency services must be contacted by dialling 999.

7. Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

Name of DSL: Charlie Clarkstone
Contact Information: info@getpedalready.co.uk

The DSL is responsible for:

  • Managing safeguarding practices.

  • Responding to concerns or incidents.

  • Liaising with local authorities and external agencies when necessary.

8. Confidentiality and Record Keeping

  • All safeguarding concerns will be documented and stored securely in line with GDPR.

  • Records are only accessible to authorised personnel and shared only with agencies or individuals who need to know.

9. Code of Conduct for Staff

All staff, coaches, and volunteers at Get Pedal Ready! must:

  • Treat all children with respect and dignity.

  • Use age-appropriate, positive language.

  • Maintain professional boundaries at all times.

  • Avoid unnecessary physical contact.

  • Be alert to signs of abuse or neglect and report concerns to the DSL.

10. Photography & Media Consent

  • No photographs or videos of children will be taken without prior written consent from a parent or guardian.

  • Any images used for marketing (e.g. website, flyers, social media) will not include names or identifiable personal details.

  • Consent can be withdrawn at any time, and images will be removed if requested.

11. Whistleblowing Procedure

  • Get Pedal Ready! encourages an open culture where safeguarding and misconduct concerns can be raised without fear of negative consequences.

  • Any concerns about inappropriate behaviour by staff, volunteers, or anyone involved in our sessions can be reported confidentially to the DSL.

  • All whistleblowing reports will be taken seriously and handled sensitively, with protection provided to the whistleblower.

12. Policy Review

Approved by: Charlie Clarkstone
Position: Director, Get Pedal Ready!
Date: 25.04.2025

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This policy will be reviewed annually or earlier as and when legislation or guidance changes. Any updates will be shared with staff and parents.

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