STEP 1

Decide on a policy that will be appropriate to your club’s circumstances.

Read these BMFA guidelines in their entirety as they give information and advice on the issues involved and possible ways that you could structure a policy to suit your own specific needs.

Many clubs have adopted the Generic Template for Club Rules as outlined in Appendix A as it stands but you should consider your own needs and be prepared to formulate your own version if you think this is appropriate.

STEP 2

Adopt the agreed policy within your constitution.

This should be voted on at either a meeting of the Committee or at an AGM. The membership should be made aware of the general principles of child welfare and your adopted policy.  Copies of the BMFA policy and this document should be available to relevant people [usually committee members and instructors] as it contains much valuable information on child welfare matters.

STEP 3

Review your club operating and flying field rules.

This is where you may need to add a few simple provisions to define how you treat and care for junior members on a day to day basis.  Most clubs find that they either add to the existing field rules or produce a single A4 sheet to accompany their existing document.  Remember you need reasonable common sense measures that reflect your club’s needs and situation.

STEP 4

Consider the need for DBS clearance for some club members.

Obtain DBS Enhanced Disclosure Certificates for those members who may be spending large amounts of time on a regular basis with junior members or who may be taking full responsibility for junior members.  Applications for Enhanced DBS Certificates can only be made by a Registered Body or through a registered ‘umbrella body’ (see the Gov.uk website for more details Guide to DBS Checks).

The BMFA can initiate the process on behalf of members, and all information is handled in the strictest confidence.

STEP 5

Document the route that you have taken.

Ensure that you have minutes from meetings where the subject of a Safeguarding policy has been discussed. Make sure that you have a simple but clear trail that defines the process that you have been through and the solutions that you have in place.

If you wish this can be backed up by submitting a record copy of your document to the BMFA office.

The final point is that your club situation can be fluid and change over time.  Review your policy on an annual basis and make changes that reflect the club’s needs and circumstances.

The BMFA is here to help. Should you require assistance contact the Head Office and discuss your club’s needs with the Club Support Officer or the Chief Executive.