The welfare of children is paramount.

A child is defined by law in England and Wales as a person under the age of 18 years.

All children, regardless of their Age, Race, Religion or Belief, Disability, Gender identity or Sexual Orientation, have the right to protection from abuse.

All concerns and allegations of abuse and poor practice will be taken seriously and responded to swiftly and appropriately.

All children have the right to be safe.

All children have the right to be treated with dignity and respect.

The BOLGC will work with children, their parents/carers and external organisations to safeguard the welfare of children participating in golf.

We recognise the authority of the statutory agencies and are committed to complying with Local Safeguarding Children Board Guidelines (LSCB).

Working Together under the Children Act 2004 and any legislation and statutory guidance that supersedes these.

The BOLGC is committed to working in partnership with other key UK Golf Bodies to continually improve and to promote safeguarding initiatives across the sport.

The BOLGC owes a legal duty of care to children on their premises or engaged in their activities.

That duty is to take reasonable care to ensure their reasonable safety and the duty is higher than it would be for adults.

The BOLGC aims to:

Provide a safe environment for children and young people participating in golfing activities and try to ensure that they enjoy the experience.

Ensure robust systems are in place to manage any concerns or allegations.

Support adults (staff, volunteers, PGA Professionals, coaches, members and visitors) to understand their roles and responsibilities with regard to their duty of care and protection of children.

Provide appropriate level training, support and resources for staff, volunteers & coaches to make informed and confident responses to specific safeguarding issues and fulfill their role effectively.

Ensure that children and their parents/carers are informed and consulted and, where appropriate, fully involved in decisions that affect them.

Reassure parents and carers that all children and young people will receive the best care possible whilst participating in club activities and communicate Policy and Procedure to them through website/letter/consents.

Bolton Council Children’s Social Care (including out of office hours contact)
NB. In an emergency, the Samaritans will hold the Duty Officer’s contact number.

During office hours Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm 01204 331500
Out of office hours Monday to Friday 6pm to 9am and weekends 01204 337777
After 5pm or at the weekends please contact The Emergency Social Work Duty Team Samaritans 08457 90 90 90
Bolton Council Safeguarding Team In an emergency contact 999 West Bolton Tel: 01942 634625

NSPCC Freephone 24 hour Helpline 0808 800 5000
NSPCC Whistleblowing Helpline for Professionals 0808 028 0285