ROTHAMSTED PARK TENNIS AND NETBALL COURTS

SAFEGUARDING OF CHILDREN AND ADULTS AT RISK OF HARM POLICY

This policy created by Harpenden Town Council is based on the information provided by the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) and is reviewed regularly to ensure that it is still in line with the LTA guidance. There is also a wider Harpenden Town Council Safeguarding Policy that covers all the Town Council’s responsibilities and procedures in relation to Safeguarding which can be viewed on the Town Council website – www.harpenden.gov.uk

It is the responsibility of every user of the courts to take safeguarding and inclusivity seriously and this is best done by ensuring awareness of the policy and everyone reporting any concerns so they can be addressed. Reporting should be via the Town Council’s contact methods or directly to the LTA, as detailed below.

The Policy

Harpenden Town Council takes safeguarding and inclusivity seriously and aims to create a tennis and netball facility that welcomes any individual to play. The Town Council aspires to have a user group that reflects the ethnicity, religious and sexual orientation of the wider community. We strive to ensure that all children, young people and adults are safeguarded from abuse when using the facility and have an enjoyable tennis and netball experience. We believe everyone who is involved in tennis or netball at Rothamsted Park has a shared responsibility to support this by promoting the welfare of all children, young people and adults.

The Town Council’s policy is one of zero tolerance to sexual predation, bullying and harassment. Players, parents and the public are encouraged to report any concerns or suspicions so that they can be addressed. Any retaliation by the person who is subject to an allegation is forbidden and action will be taken against this.

Potential undesirable actions include:

Bullying either face to face or via social media.
Harassment of any kind

Physical, mental or sexual abuse

Inappropriate photography

Inappropriate coaching behaviours

Inappropriate travel arrangements

Inappropriate and aggressive behaviours on court.

Inappropriate behaviour includes commenting on your own, partners or opponents play in a way that could cause offence.

Players are expected to always be courteous to all court users.

Failure to care for juniors who are being supervised by coaches and volunteers.

Responsibilities

The Town Council ensures that the correct training, vetting procedures which includes relevant DBS checks and risk assessments are in place for all LTA organised training sessions to minimise any chance of issues arising. The Town Council expects all users to take appropriate actions for their own safety and wellbeing including being sensible about their fitness levels, having adequate supplies of drink, food and sun cream as needed. The correct footwear and clothing are important.

Reporting a concern and contact details

Report any concerns you may have to the Town Council via the following methods:

Online contact form - https://harpenden.gov.uk/contact

Telephone: 01582 768278

Email: harpenden.town.council@harpenden.gov.uk

Or via the LTA website - https://www.lta.org.uk/