Characteristics of a Club Child Protection Officer within a swimming context include:

• an understanding of, and support for, the maintenance of the Club Child Protection Policy
• an interest in the well-being and safeguarding of children and child protection matters
• the ability to follow procedures and to know when to seek advice and not rely solely on own judgement
• Strong listening skills and the ability to deal with sensitive situations with integrity and confidentiality
• may currently work in a similar environment with training

Main Functions and Duties

• Implement Scottish Swimming child protection policy and procedures.
• Encourage good practice by promoting and championing the child protection policy and procedures.
• Conduct the administrative work associated with processing information on new volunteers / staff
• Liaise closely with Club volunteers / staff, ensuring that agreed procedures for the prevention of risk are followed
• Monitor and review the child protection policy and procedures to ensure they remain current and fit for purpose.
• Counsel / advise Club on matters of policy relating to child protection.
• Raise awareness of the Club Child Protection Officer role to parents/carers, adults, and children involved in the club.
• Raise awareness of the Code of Conduct for working with children to parents/carers, adults and children involved in the club.
• Challenge behaviour which breaches the Code of Conduct.
• Organise/signpost appropriate training for all adults working/volunteering with children in the club.
• Respond appropriately to disclosures or concerns which relate to the well-being of a child.
• Maintain confidential records of reported cases and action taken.
• Where required liaise with the Scottish Swimming Child Protection Officer and/or statutory agencies and ensure they have access to all necessary information

Skills/Attributes

• Good organisation and communication skills
• Reliable, trustworthy and a good listener
• Understanding & appreciation for the need for confidentiality
• Approachable & friendly
• Experience of working with children

Requirements

• PVG Scheme Membership
• Complete a self-declaration
• Scottish Swimming member
• Attend appropriate training

Training and Support

• Safeguarding & Protecting Children Workshop (renewable every 3 years)
• In Safe Hands Workshop (renewable every 3 years)
• Meet with Scottish Swimming staff member for initial training

Time Commitment

Time commitment can vary dependant on size and nature of Club.