Table of Contents

Glossary

Core Values
Policy Statement

Guidelines & Codes of Conduct

• Code of Conduct for Young People
• Guidelines for Parents
• Guidelines for Sports Leaders
• (including professional, coach, convener, etc)
Code of Conduct for Sports Leaders

Policies

• Disciplinary, Complaints and Appeals Procedure
• Recruitment and Supervision Policy for Leaders/Volunteers
• Anti-bullying policy
• General Guidelines with Children

Child Welfare and Protection Procedures

• Response to a Child Disclosing Abuse
• Reporting Suspected or Disclosed Child Abuse
• Allegations against Sports Leaders
• Confidentiality, Anonymous Complaints & Rumours

Appendix

1 Existing Leader Information Form
2 New Leader Information Form
3 Confidential Reference Form
4 Sample Application Form for Membership
5 Useful Contacts

Glossary
The Club
The Club shall mean Callan Golf Club
Golf
Golf when referred to as a collective authority shall mean the GUI, ILGU and the PGA
GUI
The Golfing Union of Ireland, founded in 1891, the National Administrative Authority for Men’s
Amateur Golf in Ireland.
ILGU
The Irish Ladies’ Golf Union, founded in 1893, the National Administrative Authority for Ladies Amateur Golf in Ireland
PGA
The Professional Golfers’ Association (Irish Region), originally founded in 1911 by the GUI at the request of the Professional Golfers of Ireland and then known as the Irish Professional Golfers’ Association, the Governing Authority for Professional Golf in Ireland.
JGI
Junior Golf Ireland, founded in 2004, the body formed as a partnership by the GUI, ILGU and the PGA to develop junior golf in Ireland. JGI is answerable to its three partner organizations.
ISC & SCNI
The Irish Sports Council and the Sports Council of Northern Ireland.
Junior Convenor
The individual(s) in the club who heads the Junior Golf Committee.
Club Children’s Officer
An adult, who has the responsibility for co-ordinating the implementation of the Code of Conduct at Club level. She or he is responsible for liaison with the statutory authorities as necessary. The Children’s Officer will be appointed either at the AGM of Callan Golf Club or at the first meeting of the incoming Joint Management Committee.
Designated Liaison Person
She/he is responsible for liaison with the statutory authorities. The Designated Liaison Person will be appointed either at the AGM of Callan Golf Club or at the first meeting of the incoming Joint Management Committee.
Leader
A volunteer, PGA Professional or qualified coach who works with and/or facilitates juniors to learn and compete in golf. A volunteer includes, but is not limited to, Junior Officers, Junior Conveners, Teachers, Coaches, Golf Professionals and members of the Junior Golf Committees and those appointed to positions of trust with young people.
Parent
Parent shall mean parent, guardian or carer.
The Code
The Code of Ethics for Golf for Young People – this document, which is based on guidelines of the ISC and SCNI and those listed at front of document.
Statutory Authorities
Refers to those who have statutory responsibility for the welfare and protection of young people in Ireland, namely An Garda Siochána and Tusla Child and Family Agency.

Core Values in Sport for Young People
Junior golf is based on the following principles that will guide the development of young people within golf, (as outlined in page 9, Code of Ethics and Good Practice for Children’s Sport). Young People’s experience of sport should be guided by what is best for the young person. The stages of development and the ability of the young person should guide the types of activity provided within the club/organization. Adults will need to have a basic understanding of the needs of young people, including physical, emotional and personal.

Integrity in relationships:
Adults interacting with young people in sport should do so with integrity and respect for the child. There is a danger that sporting contexts can be used to exploit or undermine children. All adult actions in sport should be guided by what is best for the child and in the context of quality, open working relationships. Verbal, physical, emotional or sexual abuse of any kind is unacceptable within sport.

Quality atmosphere and ethos
Sport for young people should be conducted in a safe, positive and encouraging atmosphere. A child-centred ethos will contribute to a safe and enjoyable atmosphere within the organization.

Equality
All children should be treated in an equitable and fair manner regardless of age, ability, sex, religion or beliefs, gender reassignment, social and ethnic background or political persuasion. Children with disability should be involved in sports activities in an integrated way, thus allowing them to participate to their potential alongside other children.

Fair Play:
Fair play is the guiding principle of the Code of Ethics and Good Practice for
Children’s Sport. All sport for young people should be conducted in an atmosphere of fair play. Ireland has contributed and is committed to the European Code of Sports Ethics, which defines fair play as: “much more than playing within the rules”.
It incorporates the concepts of friendship, respect for others and always playing with the right spirit. Fair play is defined as a way of thinking, not just behaving. It incorporates issues concerned with the elimination of opportunities, excessive commercialization and corruption.
(European Sports Charter and Code of Ethics, Council of Europe, 1993).
Competition
A balanced approach to competition can make a significant contribution to the development of young people, while at the same time providing fun, enjoyment and satisfaction. However, competitive demands are often placed on children too early, which results in excessive levels of pressure on them. This can contribute to a high level of drop out from sport. Sports leaders should aim to put the welfare of the child first and competitive standards second. A child-centred approach will help to ensure that competition and specialization are kept in their appropriate place.
Policy Statement
CALLAN GOLF CLUB
CALLAN golf Club is fully committed to safeguarding the well being of its members.
Every individual in golf should at all times, show respect and understanding for members rights, safety and welfare and conduct themselves in a way that reflects the principles of the organization and the guidelines contained in the Code of Ethics and Good Practice for Children’s Sport.

In working with young people in golf the first priority is the welfare of the young people and the club is committed to providing an environment that will allow participants to perform to the best of their ability, free from bullying and intimidation.

Safeguarding Complaints
Complaints should be dealt with by the club. All safeguarding concerns within the club should be brought to the attention of the CO and / or DLP. The DlP is responsible for reporting any allegations to the statutory authorities.

Code of Conduct for Young People
The Club wishes to provide the best possible environment for all young people involved in the sport. Young people deserve to be given enjoyable, safe sporting opportunities, free of abuse of any kind. These participants have rights, which must be respected, and responsibilities that they must accept. Young people should be encouraged to realize that they have responsibilities to treat other participants and sports leaders with fairness and respect.
Young players are entitled to:
• Be safe and to feel safe
• Be listened to
• Be believed
• Have fun and enjoy golf
• Have a voice in relation to their activities within golf
• Be treated with dignity, sensitivity and respect
• Participate on an equitable and fair manner, irrespective of ability, disability, gender, religion, social class, etc.
• Experience competition at a level at which they feel comfortable
• Make complaints and have them dealt with
• Be safe from risk of bullying behavior
• Say No to things that make them feel unsafe.
• Protect their own bodies
• Confidentiality and Privacy
Young players should always:
• Treat Sports Leaders with respect, (including professionals, coaches,
• conveners, club officials, etc.)
• Look out for themselves and the welfare of others
• Play fairly at all times, do their best
• Be organized and on time, tell someone if you are leaving a venue or competition
• Respect team members, even when things go wrong
• Respect opponents, be gracious in defeat
• Abide by the rules set down by team managers when travelling to away events, representing the club, school, province or country, etc.
• Behave in a manner that avoids bringing golf into disrepute
• Talk to the Lead Officer within the club if they have any problems
Young players should never:
• Cheat
• Use violence or engage in irresponsible, abusive, inappropriate or illegal behaviour
• Shout or argue with officials, team mates or opponents
• Harm team members, opponents or their property
• Bully or use bullying tactics to isolate another player or gain advantage
• Take banned substances, drink alcohol, smoke or engage in sexual
• behaviour
• Keep secrets.
• Tell lies about adults / young people
• Spread rumours
• Discriminate against other players on the basis of gender, age, disability, social class, religion, race, etc.

Guidelines for Parents

The Club believe that parents should:
Be a role model for your child and maintain the highest standards of conduct when interacting with young people, other parents, officials and organizers.

Always behave responsibly and do not seek to unfairly affect a player or the outcome of the game.

Never intentionally expose any young participant to embarrassment or
disparagement by the use of flippant or sarcastic remarks.

Always recognize the value and importance of the officials and volunteers who provide sporting and recreational opportunities for your child. Do not publicly question the judgement or honesty of referees, coaches or organizers. Respect junior officers, professionals, coaches, referees, organizers and other players. Parents are welcome to attend events and coaching sessions but should not interfere with the coach or professional while working with the player.

Encourage your child to play by the rules. Teach your child that honest endeavour is as important as winning and do all you can to encourage good sportsmanship.
Set a good example by applauding good play on both sides. Encourage mutual respect for teammates and opponents.

Parents should support all efforts to remove abusive behaviour and bullying
behaviour in all its forms. Please refer to bullying policy within these guidelines.

Parents’ Code of Conduct:

1. I will respect the rules and procedures set down by Golf.
2. I will respect my child’s teammates and leaders as well as players, parents and coaches from opposing teams. I will encourage my child
to treat other participants, professionals, coaches, conveners, selectors and managers with respect.
3. I will give encouragement and applaud only positive accomplishments
whether from my child, his/her teammates, their opponents or the officials.
4. I will respect my child’s leader(s) and support his/her efforts.
5. I will respect the officials and their authority during sessions and events within the organization and under the auspice of Golf.
6. I will never demonstrate threatening or abusive behaviour or use foul
language.

Guidelines for Sports Leaders. Recruitment and Supervision Policy for Golf leaders/Volunteers. (including professional, coach, convener, volunteers, leaders and junior officers etc.)
The responsibilities of the role and the level of experience/qualifications required should be drawn up and clearly stated.
Once voted/nominated, the Leader/Volunteer will be made aware of this code of conduct as it relates to juniors and any related guidelines within this document. This involves newly recruited volunteers and all volunteers assigned by the Club for that season.
Existing leaders will sign the code of conduct including the self-declaration questions (see Appendix 1). Leaders will also be requested to undergo Garda Vetting.
The Club recognizes the key role leaders (professionals, coaches, junior officers, captains, selectors and team managers, etc.) play in the lives of young people in sport.
Leaders in the club should strive to create a positive environment for the children in their care. They have an overall responsibility to take the necessary steps to ensure that positive and healthy experiences are provided. All Leaders should have as their first priority the children’s safety and enjoyment of golf and should adhere to the guidelines and regulations set out in the Club’s Code of Ethics. Leaders should respect the rights, dignity and worth of every child and must treat everyone equally, regardless of gender, age, disability, social class, race, religion, etc.
Leaders working with young people in the club should have the appropriate experience or hold the necessary qualifications. Leaders will be expected to go through appropriate recruitment and selection procedures, whether paid or unpaid. Garda Vetting procedures should be followed for all those with regular access to young people.
There will be a ‘sign-up’ procedure, whereby the appointed/reappointed leaders agree to abide by Callan Golf Club’s Code of Ethics and to the policies and code of the conduct of the Club. They should know and understand the child protection policies and procedures in the Code of Ethics for Golf for Young People.

Once appointed the Leader should
1 Act as a role model.
2. Promote the positive aspects of the club.
3. Maintain the highest standards of personal conduct.
4. Develop an appropriate relationship with young people, based on mutual trust and respect.
5. Remember his / her behaviour to players, other officials and opponents will
6. Have an effect on the players in his / her care.
7. Report any concerns you have to the Children’s Officer.

Being a role model
• You will be required to display high standards of language, manner, punctuality, preparation and presentation.
• Ensure that players in your care respect the rules of the game. Insist on fair play and ensure players are aware you will not tolerate cheating or bullying behaviour.
• Encourage the development of respect for opponents, officials, selectors and other leaders and avoid criticism of fellow professionals and coaches. Do not criticise other leaders.
• The use of illegal drugs, alcohol and tobacco must be actively discouraged as they are incompatible with a healthy approach to sporting activity.
• Leaders should avoid the use of alcohol and illegal substances before coaching during events, while supervising trips with young players and providing a duty to care.

Protection for leaders and Reducing Risk
• Leaders are responsible for setting and monitoring the boundaries between a working relationship and friendship with players. It is advisable for leaders not to involve young players in their personal life i.e. visits to leaders’ homes or overnight stays. It is important to realise that certain situations or friendly actions could be misinterpreted by the participant or by outsiders.
• Avoid working alone and ensure there is adequate supervision for all activities.
• Where possible work in an open environment and ensure that physical contact is appropriate and has the permission or understanding of the young person.
• Care must be taken not to expose a child intentionally or unintentionally to embarrassment or disparagement by use of sarcastic or flippant remarks about the child or his/her family.
• Physical punishment or physical force must never be used. Never punish a mistake – by verbal means, physical means, or exclusion.
•
A positive environment
• Be generous with praise and never ridicule or shout at players for making mistakes or for losing a match. All young players are entitled to respect.
• Be careful to avoid the “star system”. Each child deserves equal time and attention.
• Remember that young players play for fun and enjoyment and that skill development and personal satisfaction have priority over highly structured competition. Never make winning the only objective.
• Set realistic goals for the participants and do not push young players. Create a safe and enjoyable environment.
• When approached to take on a new player, ensure that any previous coach participant relationship has been ended in a professional manner.
• It is advisable to get agreement from a parent/guardian when young players are invited into adult groups/squads. Boundaries of behaviour in adult groups are normally different from the boundaries that apply to junior groups/squads.
• Leaders who become aware of a conflict between their obligation to their players and their obligation to the club/organisation must make explicit to all parties concerned the nature of the conflict and the loyalties and responsibilities involved.
• Leaders should communicate and co-operate with medical and ancillary practitioners in the diagnosis, treatment and management of their players’ medical or related problems. Avoid giving advice of a personal or medical nature if you are not qualified to do so. Any information of a personal or medical nature must be kept strictly confidential unless the welfare of the child requires the passing on of this information.
• The nature of the relationship between leader and a participant can often mean that a leader will learn confidential information about a player or player’s family. This information must be regarded as confidential and, except where abuse is suspected, must not be divulged to a third party without the express permission of the player/family.

Code of Conduct for Leaders
Leaders should familiarise themselves with the Code, in particular this code of Conduct. Leaders should read below and agree to abide by these terms.

As a leader in golf I agree that I should:
• Be positive during sessions and competitions, praise and encourage effort as well as results.
• Put the welfare of young person first, strike a balance between this and winning / results
• Encourage fair play and treat participants equally.
• Recognise developmental needs, ensuring activities are appropriate for the individual.
• Plan and prepare appropriately.
• Be committed to values & guidelines of this Code for Golf and / or hold up-to date qualifications.
• Involve parents where possible and inform parents when problems arise.
• Keep a record of attendance at training and competitions.
• Keep a brief record of injury(s) and action taken.
• Keep a brief record of problem/action/outcomes, if behavioural problems arise.
• Report any concerns in accordance with this Code’s reporting procedures.
•
Where possible I will avoid:
• Spending excessive amounts of time with children away from others.
• Taking sessions alone.
• Constant communication with individual golfers by mobile phone or email.
• Taking children to my home.
• Taking children on journeys alone in my car.

• Sports Leaders should not:
• Use any form of physical punishment or physical force on a child.
• Exert undue influence over a participant in order to obtain personal benefit or reward.
• Engage in rough physical games, sexually provocative games or allow or engage in inappropriate touching of any kind, and /or make sexually suggestive comments about, or to a child. This includes innuendo, flirting or inappropriate gestures and terms.
• Take measurements or engage in certain types of fitness testing without the presence of another adult.
• Undertake any form of therapy (hypnosis etc.) in the training of children.

Disciplinary, Complaints and Appeals Procedure for Callan Golf Club in relation to young people, their leaders and parents

• Complaints should be signed and received in writing by the Club Children’s Officer, or the Club Captain if the complaint concerns the Club Children’s Officer.
• The complaint should outline all relevant details about the parties involved.
• The Children’s Officer (or the Club Captain if the complaint concerns the Childen’s Officer) shall convene a disciplinary committee, made up of three club members.
• If the complaint involves the possibility of a criminal offence the Designated Liaison Officer should be informed. She or he will notify and liaise with the statutory authorities. Please see Child Welfare and Protection Procedure on page 23.
• The disciplinary committee shall hear the case of all parties involved and decide if a rule or regulation of the Code has been infringed.
• Both the complainant and the subject of the complaint shall be informed, in writing, of the decision of the disciplinary committee. The subject of the complaint shall be advised, in writing, of any sanction to be imposed. Written notification should be given to parents if the complaint is against a junior member.
• If any party does not agree with the disciplinary findings he or she may lodge a written appeal to the Honorary Secretary of the Joint Management Committee within ten days.
• The Joint Management Committee shall appoint a three person Appeals Committee to hear the appeal.
• If, after the disciplinary process, a person is to be suspended or expelled from the Club this will be done within Rule 11.9 of the Constitution and Rules of the Club.
• The Club shall also carry out a risk assessment to decide the level of protection needed for juniors and any future juniors working with any accused person.
• The Club shall seek advice, as necessary, to ensure it meets its obligations to safeguard the welfare of children in this regard.
• Records shall be kept by the Club for two years once all procedures have been followed, unless advised that a longer retention period is necessary. Any such advice should form part of the record.

Recruitment & Supervision Policy for Sports Leaders/Volunteers
The Club will take all reasonable steps to ensure that adults working with young people are suitable and appropriately qualified. Recruitment and/or supervision procedures will apply to all persons with substantial access to young people, whether paid or unpaid. A decision to appoint a Leader is the responsibility of the Club and not of any one individual within it. The Junior Committee shall ratify all recommendations for the appointment of leaders. The JMC will ratify the appointment of paid employees/coaches.

The Club will use the following as a suitable procedure:-
• The responsibilities of the role and the level of experience/qualifications required should be drawn up and clearly stated
• Once voted / nominated to a position the Leader should be made aware of the code of conduct as it relates to young people and any related guidelines within this document. This involves newly recruited volunteers and all volunteers assigned by the Club for that season.
• Existing Leaders will sign the appropriate code of conduct, including the self-declaration questions, (see appendix 1). Leaders will also be requested to undergo Garda vetting and Safeguarding 1 course,
• Safeguarding 1 course must be completed, firstly on a face-to-face basis and then an online refresher course every 3 years until the 9th year which will require the face to face course being completed again.
Please follow the link below for the online refresher course:
• https://able.ineqe.com/apps/sportireland/coaches/introduction.php

• New Leaders should fill in an information form, giving names of two referees that can be contacted and answering the self-declaration questions. (See appendix 2). Leaders will fill in an information form, giving names of two referees that can be contacted and answering the self-declaration questions.
• Where appropriate there will be an induction process, this will be done in an informal manner with members of the junior committee, perhaps at a junior event. Following this, a probationary period is most likely.
• Adequate supervision will be combined with good recruitment, avoiding the Leader having to work alone.
• Vetting forms are available from Junior Golf Ireland, for further information see www.juniorgolfireland.com/childprotection
• Positive disclosures or information received about an individual through vetting does not necessarily affect the Leader’s recruitment. Each disclosure is managed on a case-by-case basis by the Junior Convener. A risk assessment will be carried out and the Junior Convener will record all decisions in a fair manner and natural justice will apply. The Junior Convener will seek advice is necessary.
• Failure to comply with the above recruitment procedure can disqualify the Leader from selection or appointment to a position

Every effort will be made to manage and support appointed Leaders. Coaching courses and workshops will be provided, codes of conduct will be made available and vetting procedures will be implemented.

General Guidelines with Children
Travelling
There is extra responsibility taken on by leaders when they travel with children to events. When travelling with young people you should:
• Ensure that there is adequate insurance cover.
• Not carry more than the permitted number of passengers.
• Ensure use of safety belts.
• Avoid being alone with one participant. Put the passenger in the back seat, drop off at central locations or seek parental permission to transport an individual participant on a regular basis and clearly state times of pick- up and drop off.

Supervision
• Make sure there is an adequate adult: child ratio. This will depend on the nature of the activity, the age of the participants, any special needs of the group and away trips. As a guide a ratio of 1:8 for under 12 years of age and1:10 for participants over 12 years of age.
• Where there are mixed groups on a regular basis there should be leaders of both genders.
• Avoid being alone with one participant, if you need to talk separately do so in an open environment, in view of others.
• Leaders should use their discretion about appropriate levels of supervision of changing rooms. Supervision of changing rooms where children are very young or need special assistance should be in pairs of appropriate gender.
• Parents should be advised that changing rooms are shared with adult members/visitors.
• Clearly state time for start and end of training sessions or competitions, leaders should remain in pairs until all participants have been collected.
• Keep attendance records and record of any incidents / injuries that arise.
• Facilitate parents who wish to stay and supervise sessions, (for safety and supervision, not necessarily for their ‘technical’ expertise).

Away trips / Overnight stays
• Separate permission forms should be signed by parents and participants, containing emergency contact number(s).
• Young participants should sign a behaviour agreement.
• Appoint a group leader who will make a report on returning home.
• A meeting with parents and participants may be used to communicate travel times, competition details, other activities, gear requirements, medical requirements, special dietary needs and any other necessary details.
• Rooming arrangements – adults will not share rooms with children. Children should share rooms with those of same age and gender and adults should knock before entering rooms.
• All group socialization should take place in communal areas (i.e. no boys in girls’ rooms and vice versa).
• Alcoholic drink, smoking or any illegal substances are forbidden to players.
• There should be at least one adult of each gender with a mixed party, there should be a good adult – child ratio, 1:5/6, and proper access to medical personnel.
• Lights out times should be enforced.
• Young players should be under reasonable supervision at all times and should never leave the venue or go unsupervised without prior permission.

Safety
The Club will:
• Ensure activities are suitable for age and stage of development of participants.
• Keep a record of any specific medical conditions of the participants.
• Keep a record of emergency contact numbers for parents / guardians.
• Ensure any necessary protective gear is used.
• Ensure First Aid kit is close at hand with access to qualified first-aider.
• Know the contact numbers of emergency services.
• Keep first aid kit appropriately stocked.
• Ensure easy access to medical personnel if needed and have an emergency plan.
• If an incident occurs, make a brief record of injury and action taken. Make a brief record of the problem/action/outcome. Contact the participants’ parents and keep them informed of all details.
• Expect officials (conveners and referees, etc.) to ensure the conduct of the game.
• Expect participants to know and keep the etiquette guidelines of golf, keeping in mind that many rules are in place for the safety and enjoyment of the game.
• Check that Leaders hold appropriate qualifications required by the governing body.
• Ensure there is adequate insurance cover for all activities.
• Ensure parents / guardians are present at finishing time of sessions or events.
• In the event of a child getting lost or if a child (not a participant) is found on the course, this should be brought to the attention of the Activity Leader or any Club Officer/staff member who in turn should bring it to the attention of the Children’s Officer. Appropriate action should be taken to ensure the safety and well-being of the child.
In certain circumstances, it may be necessary for the Children’s Officer/DLP to inform the Statutory Services.
Physical Contact
Golf on occasion requires a ‘hands on approach’, especially in a teaching or
coaching situation, e.g., it may be necessary to assist a young person when
changing their grip on the club but the following will be taken into consideration
• Leaders will avoid unnecessary physical contact.
• Any necessary contact should be in response to the needs of the child and not the adult.
• It should be in an open environment with the permission and understanding of the participant.
• It should be determined by the age and developmental stage of the participant – A Leader won’t do something that a child can do for themselves.
• Leaders should not engage in inappropriate touching.
•
Late Collection
If a parent is late to collect a child the Club will contact the parent using the emergency contact number. If there is no answer the club will ask the child if there is another family member to contact. The Leaders will wait with the young person at the club or venue, preferably with other staff or volunteers. The Leaders will remind parents of the policy in relation to good practice and supervision. Continual later collection will be dealt with under the parent’s code of behaviour.
Lost or Found Child. In the event of a child getting lost or if a child (not a participant) is found on the course, this should be brought to the attention of the Activity Leader or any Club Officer/staff member who in turn should bring it to the attention of the Children’s Officer. Appropriate action should be taken to ensure the safety and well-being of the child.
In certain circumstances, it may be necessary for the Children’s Officer/DLP to inform the Statutory Services.

Guidelines on use of Photographic and Filming Equipment
The Club has adopted a policy in relation to the use of images of athletes on its websites and in other publications as part of its commitment to providing a safe environment to young people. The club will take all necessary steps to ensure that young people are protected from the inappropriate use of their images in resource and media publications, on the internet and elsewhere. This is not to avoid parents/guardians taking photographs of their children but to ensure that best practice is put in place wherever and whenever photographs and recorded images are taken and stored.

The Club will endeavour to
• Inform athletes and parents that a photographer may be in attendance at an event and ensure they consent to both the taking and publication of films or photographs.
• Ask for parental permission to use the golfer’s image and consult with the golfer about its usage.
• Ensure the content of the photograph focuses on the golf not on a particular child.
• Not approve/allow photo sessions outside the events or at an athlete’s home.
Videoing as a coaching aid: Video equipment can be used as a legitimate coaching aid. However, permission will first be obtained from the player and the player’s parent.
Anyone concerned about any photography taking place at events or training sessions can contact the lead officer and ask them to deal with the matter.

Mobile Phones
Young people value their mobile phones as it gives them a sense of independence.
They can often be given to young people for security to enable parents to keep in touch. However, technology has enabled direct personal contact between adults and young people and in some cases adults have used this to cross personal boundaries and cause harm. Golf has agreed the following guidelines to encourage safe usage of mobile phones:
As a leader:
• Use group texts for communication among players and teams and inform parents of this at the start of the season, tournament or event.
• It is not appropriate or acceptable to have constant contact with an individual athlete.
• Don’t use your phone in inappropriate locations, such as changing rooms, especially if your phone has a camera.
As a young golfer:
• If you receive an offensive message, email or photo don’t reply to it, save it, make a note of times and dates and tell a parent, lead officer or responsible adult that you trust.
• Be careful about whom you give your number or email address to and don’t respond to unfamiliar numbers/addresses.
• Don’t use your phone in inappropriate locations, such as changing rooms, especially if your phone has a camera.
• Treat your phone as you would any valuable item so that you can guard against theft.
•
Bullying
Bullying can occur between an adult and young person and young person to young person. In either case it is not acceptable within Golf. The competitive nature of golf can create an environment that provides opportunities for bullying. The bully may be a parent who pushes too hard, a coach who adopts a win-at-all costs philosophy, a young player who intimidates another or an official who places unfair pressure on a
Person. Bullying can only survive in an environment where the victim does not feel empowered to tell someone who can help or in which it is not safe to do so. The damage inflicted by bullying can frequently be underestimated. It can cause considerable distress to young people, to the extent it effects their health and development, or at the extreme, causes them significant harm. The following guidelines are used by the Club to help prevent bullying:-
The Club will
• Encourage all members to follow the Code of Conduct, which promotes the rights and dignity of each member.
• Deal with any incidents as they arise.
• Use a whole group policy or ‘no-blame approach’, i.e. not ‘bullying the bully’ but working with bullies and the group of young people, helping them to understand the hurt they are causing, and so make the problem a ‘shared concern’ of the group.
• Reinforce that there is ‘a permission to tell’ culture rather than a ‘might is right’.
• Encourage young people to negotiate, co-operate and help others, particularly new or children with specific needs.
• Offer the victim immediate support and put the ‘no blame approach’ into operation.
• Never tell a young person to ignore bullying, they can’t ignore it, it hurts too much.
• Never encourage a young person to take the law into their own hands and beat the bully at his/her own game.
• Tell the victim there is nothing wrong with them and it is not their fault.
For further information on bullying and the ‘no-blame’ approach see website, www.irishsportcouncil.ie

The guidelines below are in relation to an incident that cannot be dealt with within the Club as there may be risk of harm to a young person. In such cases statutory guidelines will be followed for dealing with a concern in relation to the welfare and protection of a child.

Child Welfare and Protection Procedures
The Club accepts that organizations, which include young people among its members, are vulnerable to the occurrence of child abuse. Below are the procedures for dealing with any welfare or protection issue that may arise. Child welfare and the protection of young people is the concern of all adults at all times, irrespective of their role within the Club.
If there are grounds for concern about the safety or welfare of a young person the person / Club should react to the concern.
A report may be made by any member in the club but it should be passed on to the Club Children’s Officer and the Designated Liaison person who may in turn have to pass the concern to the local Statutory Authorities. It is not the responsibility of anyone working within the Club, in a paid or voluntary capacity, to decide whether or not child abuse is taking place. That is the job of the local statutory authorities. However, there is a responsibility to protect children by assisting the appropriate agencies so that they can then make enquiries and take any necessary action to protect the young person. Grounds for concern include a specific indication from a child, a statement from a person who witnessed abuse or an illness, injury or behaviour consistent with abuse.

Everyone should follow both procedures outlined below, firstly the procedure for responding to a child in distress and secondly the procedure for reporting the concern.

Response to a Child Disclosing Abuse
When a young person discloses information of suspected abuse you should:
(a) Deal with any allegation of abuse in a sensitive and competent way through listening to and facilitating the child to tell about the
problem rather than interviewing the child about details of what happened.
(b) Stay calm and don’t show any extreme reaction to what the child is saying. Listen compassionately and take what the child is saying seriously.
(c) Understand that the child has decided to tell something very important and has taken a risk to do so. The experience of telling should be a positive one so that the child will not mind talking to those involved in the investigation.
(d) Be honest with the child and tell them that it is not possible to keep information a secret.
(e) Make no judgmental statements against the person whom the allegation is made.
(f) Do not question the child unless the nature of what s/he is saying is unclear.
Leading questions should be avoided. Open, non-specific questions should be used such as “Can you explain to me what you mean by that”.
(g) Check out the concerns with the parents/guardians before making a report unless doing so would endanger the child.
(h) Give the child some indication of what would happen next, such as informing parents/guardians, police or social services. It should be kept in mind that the child may have been threatened and may feel vulnerable at this stage.
(i) Carefully record the details.
(j) Pass on this information to the Club Children’s Officer.
(k) Reassure the child that they have done the right thing in telling you.

Reporting Suspected or Disclosed Child Abuse
The following steps should be taken when reporting child abuse to the statutory authorities:
(a) Observe and note dates, times, locations and contexts in which the incident occurred or suspicion was aroused, together with any other relevant information.
(b) Report the matter as soon as possible to the Club Children’s Officer and Designated Liaison Person, who has responsibility for reporting abuse. If the DLP has reasonable grounds for believing that the child has been abused or is at risk of abuse, s/he will make a report to the Social work Dept., Tusla Child and Family Agency who have statutory responsibility to investigate and assess suspected or actual child abuse.
(c) In cases of emergency, where a child appears to be at immediate or serious risk and the DLP is unable to contact a duty social worker, the gardai should be contacted. Under no circumstances should a child be left in a dangerous situation pending intervention by the Statutory Authorities.
(d) If the DLP is unsure whether reasonable grounds for concern exist s/he can informally consult with the duty social worker. S/he will be advised whether or not the matter requires a formal report.
A Designated Liaison Person reporting suspected or actual child abuse to the Statutory Authorities will first inform the family of his/her intention to make such a report, unless doing so would endanger the child or undermine an investigation.

The Protection for Persons Reporting Child Abuse Act, 1998 providesimmunity from civil liability to persons who report child abuse ‘reasonably and in good faith’ to the Child and Family Agency or the Gardai. The act also covers the offence of ‘false reporting’. The main provisions of the Act are:

1. The provision of immunity from civil liability to any person who reports child abuse “reasonably and in good faith” to designated officers of the Child and Family Agency or any member of An Garda Siochána.
2. The provision of significant protections for employees who report child abuse. These protections cover all employees and all forms of discrimination up to and including, dismissal.
3. The creation of a new offence of false reporting of child abuse where a
person makes a report of child abuse to the appropriate authorities “knowing that statement to be false”. This is a new criminal offence designed to protect innocent persons from malicious reports.

Allegations against Sports Leaders
The Club has agreed procedures to be followed in cases of alleged child abuse
complaints concerning Leaders. If such an allegation is made against a Sports Leader working within the Club, two procedures will be followed:

• The reporting procedure in respect of suspected child abuse (reported to the Statutory Authorities by the Designated Liaison Person), see previous page.
• The procedure for dealing with the Leader (carried out by the Captains of the Mens and Ladies Clubs).

The safety of the child making the allegation should be considered and also the safety of any other children who may be at risk. The Club will take any necessary steps that may be needed to protect children in its care.
The issue of confidentiality is important. Information is on a need to know basis and the Leader will be treated with respect and fairness.
If the Club Children’s Officer and DLP has reasonable grounds for concern, the matter should be reported to the Statutory Authorities, following the standard reporting procedure. (form in Appendix)
While the Designated Liaison Person makes the report to the local statutory authorities, the Club Captains should deal with the Leader in question.
• The Club Captains will privately inform the Leader that (a) an allegation has been made against him / her and (b) the nature of the allegation. He / she should be afforded an opportunity to respond. His / her response should be noted and passed on to the statutory authorities.
• The Leader may be asked to step aside pending the outcome of the
investigation. When a person is asked to step aside it will be made clear that it is only a precautionary measure and will not prejudice any later disciplinary proceedings.

Disciplinary action on the Leader may be considered but this will not interfere with the investigation of the Statutory Authorities. The outcome of the investigation and any implications it might have will be considered. The fact that the alleged abuser has not been prosecuted or been found guilty does not automatically mean that they are appropriate to work with young people in the future.
Irrespective of the findings of the Statutory Authorities, The Club will assess all individual cases to decide whether a member of staff or volunteer should continue or be reinstated and if so how this can be sensitively handled. This may be a difficult decision, especially where there is insufficient evidence to uphold any action by the statutory authorities. In such case the Club will reach a decision based upon the available information which could suggest that on the balance of probability, it is more likely than not that the allegation is true, and the implications of this for the safety of children. The welfare of the child will remain of paramount importance throughout. The Club may need to disclose information to ensure the protection of young people in its care.

Confidentiality

Confidentiality should be maintained in respect of all issues and people involved in cases of abuse, welfare or bad practice. It is important that the rights of both the child and the person about whom the complaint has been made are protected.
The Club will consider the following when discussing concerns:
• A guarantee of confidentiality or undertakings regarding secrecy cannot be given, as the welfare of the child will supersede all other considerations.
• All information should be treated in a careful and sensitive manner and should be discussed only with those who need to know.
• Information should be conveyed to the parents / guardians of the child in a sensitive way.
• Giving information to others on a ‘need to know’ basis for the protection of a child is not a breach of confidentiality.
• All persons involved in a child protection process (the child, his/her
parents/guardians, the alleged offender, his/her family, Leaders) should be afforded appropriate respect, fairness, support and confidentiality at all stages of the procedure.
• Information should be stored in a secure place, with limited access to designated people, Club Children’s Officer and Designated Liaison Person.
• The requirements of Data Protection laws should be met.
• Breach of confidentiality is a serious manner.

Anonymous Complaints / Rumours
Anonymous complaints can be difficult to deal with but will not be ignored. Rumours should not be allowed to hang in the air. All concerns relating to inappropriate behaviour should be brought to the attention of the Club Children’s Officer and DLP who should ensure that the information is checked out and handled in a confidential manner. In all cases the safety and welfare of the child/children is paramount.

Appendix 1

Existing Leader Information Form
Leaders should familiarize themselves with the Code of Ethics for Golf for Young People, in particular the Code of Conduct for Leaders, outlined below. Leaders should read and agree to abide by these terms. Leaders should update the self-declaration questions annually.

As a leader in golf I agree that I shall:
• Be positive during sessions and competitions, praise and encourage effort as well as results.
• Put welfare of young person first, strike a balance between this and winning / results.
• Encourage fair play and treat participants equally.
• Recognise developmental needs, ensuring activities are appropriate for the individual.
• Plan and prepare appropriately.
• Be committed to the guidelines in this Code.
• Involve parents where possible and inform parents when problems arise.
• Keep a record of attendance at training and competitions.
• Keep a brief record of injury(s) and action taken.
• Keep a brief record of problem/action/outcomes, if behavioural problems arise.
• Report any concerns in accordance with this Code’s reporting procedures.

As a Leader I shall not:

• Spend excessive amounts of time with children away from others.
• Take sessions alone.
• Take children to my home.
• Take children on journeys alone in my car.
• Use any form of physical punishment or physical force on a child.
• Exert undue influence over a participant in order to obtain personal benefit or reward.
• Engage in rough physical games, sexually provocative games or allow or engage in inappropriate touching of any kind, and /or make sexually suggestive comments about, or to a child. This includes innuendo, flirting or inappropriate gestures and terms.
• Take measurements or engage in certain types of fitness testing without the presence of another adult and permission of parent/guardian.
• Undertake any form of therapy (hypnosis etc.) in the training of children.

Self-Declaration
Do you agree to abide by the guidelines contained in the Code of Ethics for Golf for Young People? Yes [ ] No [ ]

Have you ever been asked to leave a sporting organization? Yes [ ] No [ ]
(If you have answered yes, we will contact you in confidence)

Have you ever been convicted of a criminal offence or been the subject of a caution; a Bound
Over Order; or are you at present the subject of criminal investigations? Yes [ ] No [ ]
(If you have answered yes, we will contact you in confidence)

Signed: ____________________________

Dated: _____________________________

Appendix 2
New Leader Information Form:

Full Name:__________________ Any surname previously:____________

Current Address:_____________________________________________________

List all other previous addresses:
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________

Date of Birth:________________ Place of Birth:____________________

Telephone No.(s):_____________ National Insurance No: / PPSI:____________

List previous experience / involvement in any other club. Include experience of working with young children in a voluntary or professional capacity:
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________

Sporting/ NGB Qualifications:
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________

Do you agree to abide by the guidelines contained in the Code
of Ethics for Golf for Young People? Yes [ ] No [ ]

Have you ever been asked to leave a sporting organization? Yes [ ] No [ ]
(If you have answered yes, we will contact you in confidence)

Have you ever been convicted of a criminal offence or been the subject of a caution; a Bound
Over Order; or are you at present the subject of criminal investigations?
Yes [ ] No [ ]
(If you have answered yes, we will contact you in confidence)

References:

Please supply the name and address of two people who we can contact and who, from personal knowledge, are willing to endorse your application. One of these names should be, where possible, the name of an administrator / leader in your last club / place of involvement

Name/Address of Referee 1:____________________________________________

Name/Address of Referee 2: ___________________________________________

Signed ______________________ Date: _______________________

Appendix 3
Confidential Reference Form
(this form may be used as a telephone reference or used as a written reference)

The following person: ______________________________ (list name) has
expressed an interest in working with _____________ (name club / organization) as ____________(list position)

If you are happy to complete this reference, any information will be treated with due confidentiality and in accordance with relevant legislation and guidance. Information will only be shared with the person conducting the assessment of the candidate’s suitability for the post, if he/she is offered the position. We appreciate you being extremely candid, open and honest in your evaluation.

How long have you known this person?______________________________

In what capacity?________________________________________________

What attributes does this person have that would make them suited to this work?

_______________________________________________________________

Please rate this person on the following (tick one box for each statement)

Poor Average Good Very Good Excellent
Responsibility
Maturity
Self-motivation
Can motivate
others
Energy
Trustworthiness
Reliability

This post involves substantial access to young people. As an organization committed to the welfare and protection of young people, we are anxious to know if you have any reason at all to be concerned about this applicant being in contact with children and young people: Yes [ ] No [ ]
If you answer yes, we will contact you in confidence

Signed: _______________________________

Date: ______________

Position in Organisation: ____________________

Name of Club /Organisation: _______________________

Appendix 4
Application Form for Membership

CONTACT INFORMATION

Full Name: _________________________________________________
(Male / Female)
Address: ___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
Telephone/Home:___________________
Telephone/Mobile (in case of emergency):________________________
E-MAIL:___________________________
Date of Birth:_______________________

MEDICAL HISTORY INFORMATION
__________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________

Please include all medical details that might be relevant in dealing in with your child in a safe manner, such as allergies, medication, special needs, etc.

PARENTAL/GUARDIAN CONSENT
I am the Parent/Guardian of ____________________________________

Photographs

I understand that photographs will be taken during or at golf related events and may be used in the promotion of golf
Overnight Away Trips
If selected for representative teams, I confirm I am happy with the travel and accommodation arrangements the GUI/ILGU/PGA/JGI may arrange for my child(ren).
Drug Testing for inter-pro players only
I give permission for my child(ren) to be tested for prohibited substances in
accordance with the Irish Sports Council Anti Doping Rules

I hereby consent to the above child(ren) participating in golf activities of the union
/branch/district in line with the Code of Ethics for Golf for Young People. I will inform the leader of any changes to the information above. I confirm that all details are correct and I am able to give parental consent for my child(ren) to participate in and travel to all activities.

SIGNATURE: _____________________________________

PRINTED NAME: __________________________________

Appendix 5 – Useful Contacts
Golfing Union of Ireland
Carton Demesne
Maynooth
Co. Kildare

01 45054000 / info@gui.ie
Lead Officer – Pat Finn
Irish Ladies Golfing Union
Q House
Sandyford
Dublin 18

01 2695000 / info@ilgu.ie
Lead Officer – Geraldine Carmody

PGA (Irish Region)
Dundalk Golf Club
Blackrock
Co. Louth

042 5555 / mmccumiskey@pga.org.uk
Lead Officer – Michael McCumiskey
Junior Golf Ireland
Carton Demesne
Maynooth
Co. Kildare

01 6290735 / info@juniorgolfireland.com
Lead Officer – Anne Marie Hughes

Irish Sports Council
Top Floor, Block A
West End Office Park
Blanchardstown
Dublin 15

Tel No. 01-8608800
Sports Council Northern Ireland
House of Sport
Upper Malone Road
Belfast BT9 5LA

Tel No. 02890 381222

Volunteering Ireland
Coleraine House
Coleraine Street
Dublin 7

01 8722622 / info@volunteeringireland.com Ombudsman for Children
Millennium House
52 – 56 Great Strand Street
Dublin 1

1890 654654 / 01 8656800
oco@oco.ie

Social Work Dept. Tusla Child and Family Agency

Kilkenny & Clonmel 052 6177302
An Garda Siochana
Callan 056 7725232
Kilkenny 0567775000
Clonmel 052 6177640