Safeguarding Adults in Sport
Much of safeguarding focuses on the wellbeing of children, but equally important is the safeguarding of vulnerable adults. As a Martial Arts trainer it is your responsibility identify any safeguarding issues and take the appropriate next steps. Specialised training can help you distinguish when an adult in your class my need help. You should also have a section in your Safeguarding Policy that specifically addresses the needs of venerable adults. You need to recognise that ability and disability can change over time, such that some adults may be additionally vulnerable to abuse, in particular those adults with care and support needs
All NEST Clients are provided with an Adults Safeguarding Policy template for use in their schools as part of our Safeguarding Code in Martial Arts guides and assistance. Contact safeguarding@nestmanagement.co.uk to find out more.
As part of National Safeguarding Adults Week we have outlined some of the key principles of Safeguarding, these principles form the backbone of most Adult safeguarding policies.
The six principles of adult safeguarding
The Care Act 2014 sets out the following principles that should underpin safeguarding of adults:
- Empowerment – People being supported and encouraged to make their own decisions and informed consent.
- Prevention – It is better to take action before harm occurs.
- Proportionality – The least intrusive response appropriate to the risk presented.
- Protection – Support and representation for those in greatest need.
- Partnership – Local solutions through services working with their communities. Communities have a part to play in preventing, detecting and reporting neglect and abuse
- Accountability – Accountability and transparency in delivering safeguarding.
Adult Safeguarding should be person led and outcome focused. It engages the person in a conversation about how best to respond to their safeguarding situation in a way that enhances involvement, choice and control. As well as improving quality of life, well-being and safety.
Wherever possible discuss safeguarding concerns with the adult to get their view of what they would like to happen and keep them involved in the safeguarding process, seeking their consent to share information outside of the organisation where necessary.
By keeping these themes in mind, we can all ensure that adult participants can fully take part in Martial Arts.
It’s important to note that Safeguarding is not just about creating a safe environment in class, it’s also about identifying red flags that suggest the individual may be in an unsafe environment is outside of class. Your safeguarding policy should outline the appropriate next steps to take if you suspect anyone, adults or children, are in any kind of danger.
More information can be found on anncrafttrust.org or safeguardingcode.com
