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SC IOM Safeguarding Policy

At SportCheer Isle of Man, the safety and wellbeing of all our athletes is our highest priority.


We are committed to creating a positive, inclusive, and supportive environment where every participant, from our youngest athletes to adults, can enjoy cheerleading and performance cheer in a safe and respectful space.

Safeguarding means protecting children, young people, and vulnerable adults from harm, abuse, and neglect. Everyone involved in our sport — coaches, volunteers, parents, and athletes — has a role to play in keeping each other safe.

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Our Safeguarding Policy sets out how we promote welfare, prevent harm, and respond to concerns. All our coaches and volunteers are vetted and trained to ensure best practice in athlete care and child protection.

1. Policy Statement
SportCheer Isle of Man (SCIM) is committed to ensuring that all athletes, coaches, volunteers, and staff involved in cheerleading and performance cheer are safe, respected, and supported.


We believe that everyone, regardless of age, ability, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, or social background, has the right to participate in sport free from abuse, harm, and neglect.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all individuals involved with SCIM, including:

  • Coaches, assistants, and volunteers

  • Athletes aged 7–18+

  • Committee members and event staff

  • Parents, guardians, and spectators attending SCIM activities
     

3. Our Commitment
SCIM will:

  • Prioritise the welfare of all athletes in every decision and action.

  • Provide a safe and positive training and competition environment.

  • Recognise that children and young people can be vulnerable to harm.

  • Follow Isle of Man and UK safeguarding legislation and guidance.

  • Ensure all coaches and volunteers are appropriately vetted (e.g. DBS/Isle of Man equivalent checks) and trained in safeguarding awareness.

  • Respond promptly and appropriately to any safeguarding concern.
     

4. Recognising Abuse and Harm

Abuse can take many forms, including:
 

  • Physical abuse: deliberate injury or harm

  • Emotional abuse: persistent negative treatment or bullying

  • Sexual abuse: inappropriate contact or exploitation

  • Neglect: failing to meet basic needs or provide adequate supervision

  • Online abuse: harmful behaviour via digital communication
     

All members should be alert to signs of abuse and know how to respond.
 

5. Responsibilities

  • Safeguarding Officer: SCIM will appoint a designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO) responsible for managing and reporting safeguarding concerns.

  • Coaches and Volunteers: Must follow this policy, complete safeguarding training, and report concerns immediately to the DSO.

  • Parents and Guardians: Are encouraged to share any concerns and support a safe environment for all participants.
     

6. Reporting Concerns

If anyone has a safeguarding concern or suspects abuse, they should:
 

  1. Report it immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Officer.
     

  2. If the DSO is unavailable or the concern involves them, contact a senior committee member or, if necessary, the Isle of Man Safeguarding Board / Police.
    All reports will be handled sensitively and in line with confidentiality and data protection laws.
     

7. Code of Conduct

All participants must:

  • Treat others with respect and dignity.

  • Never engage in bullying, harassment, or inappropriate behaviour.

  • Follow the instructions of coaches and officials.

  • Maintain appropriate physical and verbal boundaries at all times.
     

8. Safer Recruitment and Training

  • Coaches and volunteers will complete safeguarding and first aid training appropriate to their role.

  • SCIM will provide induction and ongoing support to ensure good safeguarding practice.
     

9. Photography and Online Safety

  • Parental consent will be obtained before using images of athletes under 18.

  • Photos and videos will be used responsibly and never in a way that could harm or identify a child without permission.

  • Parents should only take and share photos of their own child or others with parental consent.

  • Online communication between coaches and athletes must be transparent and professional.
     

10. Review
This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if there are changes in legislation, guidance, or SCIM operations.
 

Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO):
Name: Louisa Boyd
Email: sportcheerisleofman@gmail.com
Phone: 07624 361072

Date: 23.10.2025
Review Due: 23.10.2026

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