RYA Child Protection Policy 

As defined in the Children Act 1989, for the purposes of this policy anyone under the age of 18 should be considered as a child. The policy also applies to vulnerable adults.

It is the policy of the RYA to safeguard children and young people taking part in boating from physical, sexual or emotional harm. The RYA will take all reasonable steps to ensure that, through appropriate procedures and training, children participating in RYA activities do so in a safe environment. We recognise that the safety and welfare of the child is paramount and that all children, irrespective of sex, age, disability, race, religion or belief, sexual identity or social status, have a right to protection from discrimination and abuse.

The RYA actively seeks to:

Create a safe and welcoming environment, both on and off the water, where children can have fun and develop their skills and confidence.

Support and encourage recognised training centres, affiliated clubs and class associations to implement similar policies.

Recognise that safeguarding children is the responsibility of everyone, not just those who work with children.

Ensure that RYA-organised training and events are run to the highest possible safety standards.

Be prepared to review its ways of working to incorporate best practice.

We will:

Treat all children with respect and celebrate their achievements.

Carefully recruit and select all employees, contractors and volunteers.

Respond swiftly and appropriately to all complaints and concerns about poor practice or suspected or actual child abuse.

This policy relates to all employees, contractors and volunteers who work with children or vulnerable adults in the course of their RYA duties. It will be kept under periodic review. All relevant concerns, allegations, complaints and their outcome should be notified to the RYA Safeguarding Co-ordinator.  Contact Jackie Reid on 023 8060 4104, e-mail jackie.reid@rya.org.uk