Safeguarding

As part of our club changes and growth we have addressed our safeguarding policy and procedures. These are now available on the files section of the website.

Safeguarding : The club  is committed to creating and maintaining a safe, positive, and enjoyable environment for all its members and those we interact with. The club believes in the right to a safe and nurturing environment free from harm, abuse and neglect, both physical and emotional. This right extends to all of its members and attendees, particularly (but not exclusively) children and vulnerable adults.

In addition to the policy, there are processes for raising a complaint and whistle-blowing - expanded from our previous constitution. We shall be working to implement all of these changes over the coming weeks.

Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO)

One of the requirements of a good safeguarding approach is that there is an identified individual, independent from leadership, to lead safeguarding issues. The DSO advises the organisation leadership, is the first point of contact for raising safeguarding concerns and independently handles investigations and liaises with authorities. We are very happy that Mark Simpson has agreed to undertake this role. Mark is a regular role-player and occasional fantasy war-gamer. Mark has 30+ years of experience within the Metropolitan Police and latterly with the NSPCC. He has a background in Vice, Human Trafficking, Child Abuse and Serious Sexual Offences. He has been instrumental in many safeguarding issues including writing and implementing safeguarding controls for the Metropolitan Police, conducting and supervising investigations and training fellow officers. Mark also has experience in the area of conflict resolution.

We don't believe we could have found a better individual to help us. Thank you Mark! As safeguarding is a responsibility that falls on all of us, Mark would like to draw all club attendees attention to the one page flow chart on how to deal with a suspected safeguarding issue.

Code of Conduct

Finally, the club Code of Conduct has also been refreshed. All club members are advised to be familiar with it. It is not onerous, but does set standards of acceptable behaviour for all attendees. We have a reputation for being open and friendly, and long may it continue.