Sport Lion

Effective Date: 17/05/25

Review Date: 17/05/26

Introduction

Sport Lion is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and young people who participate in our multi-sports sessions delivered in schools and nurseries across Nottinghamshire. We believe that all children, regardless of age, ability, gender, race, religion, or background, have the right to be protected from harm, abuse, and exploitation.

Scope of the Policy

This policy applies to:

• All staff, coaches, volunteers, and contractors working on behalf of Sport Lion 

• All children and young people under 18 who access our services

• All locations where we deliver services, including schools and nurseries

Legal Framework

This policy follows:

• Children Act 1989 and 2004

• Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018)

• Keeping Children Safe in Education (2023)

• Education Act 2002

• Childcare Act 2006

• The Prevent Duty (2015)

• Nottinghamshire Local Safeguarding Children Partnership guidance

Our Commitment

We will:

• Prioritise child welfare at all times

• Create a safe and supportive environment

• Train all staff in safeguarding procedures

• Follow safer recruitment practices

• Respond promptly to any safeguarding concerns

• Keep accurate safeguarding records

Recognising Abuse

We recognise the following main categories of abuse:

• Physical abuse

• Emotional abuse

• Sexual abuse

• Neglect

All staff and coaches are trained to identify signs of abuse and respond appropriately.

Reporting Concerns

All concerns must be reported to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).

DSL Contact:
Name: Alexandros Efthymiou
Email: headcoach@sportlion.co.uk
Phone: 07754148351

If the DSL is unavailable, contact Nottinghamshire MASH directly:

Nottinghamshire MASH:
Phone: 0300 500 80 80
Out of Hours: 0300 456 4546
Email: mash.safeguarding@nottscc.gov.uk
In an emergency: Call 999

Responding to a Disclosure

If a child discloses something concerning:

• Remain calm and listen

• Avoid asking leading questions

• Do not promise confidentiality

• Reassure the child

• Record what was said accurately

• Report immediately to the DSL

Safer Recruitment

We ensure all team members:

• Have enhanced DBS checks

• Provide suitable references

• Are interviewed for suitability

• Complete safeguarding training

Training and Conduct

All staff:

• Receive safeguarding training

• Are briefed on this policy

• Follow professional conduct guidelines when working with children

Record Keeping and Confidentiality

• All concerns are recorded and stored securely

• Information is shared only when necessary and lawful

• We comply with UK GDPR and Data Protection laws

Policy Review

This policy is reviewed annually or in response to changes in law or guidance.

Useful Contacts

Nottinghamshire MASH:

• Phone: 0300 500 80 80

• Out of Hours: 0300 456 4546

• Email: mash.safeguarding@nottscc.gov.uk

NSPCC Helpline: 0808 800 5000
Emergency Services: 999