​

Introduction

AZ Elite recognises the importance of its responsibility to protect and safeguard the welfare of children and young people entrusted to its care. We understand that all adults, including temporary staff and volunteers, have a full and active part to play in protecting our children from harm, and that the child’s welfare is our paramount concern.

 

As an organisation working with children and young people, AZ Elite has a responsibility to act if safeguarding concerns come to light, to protect children from harm within the programme.

 

Aims:

• To support the child’s development in ways that will foster security, confidence and independence.

• To provide an environment in which children and young people feel safe, secure, valued and respected. They should feel confident that they can approach adults if they are in difficulties, believing they will be effectively listened to.

• To raise the awareness of all coaching and non-coaching staff of the need to safeguard children and of their responsibilities in identifying and reporting any safeguarding concerns.

• To emphasise the need for good levels of communication between all members of coaching and non-coaching staff.

• To develop a structured procedure within the programme which will be followed by all members of the AZ Elite community.

• To check that all adults appointed/authorised by AZ Elite have completed DBS checks and are thoroughly vetted.

 

 

It is the responsibility of the AZ Elite Programme Directors to appoint a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) to oversee the implementation of this policy. This position will be held for a one-year term and then be reviewed by the directors when appropriate. If and when required, the named nominated person will work in conjunction with statutory agencies and other organisations to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the young person.

 

Designated Safeguard Leads (DSL):

Molly Lia, contact no: 07538043250, email: molly@azelite.co.uk

 

Assistant Safeguard Lead (ASL):

Sian James, contact no: 07870562748, email: Sianwilliams@hotmail.com

 

 

The name of the Designated Safeguarding Lead is clearly displayed in the gym, with a statement explaining the programme’s role in referring and monitoring cases where safeguarding concerns are raised. Should a concern need to be raised regarding the DSL, please contact the gym owner.

 

Gym Owners:

Candice Andrews (candice@azelite.co.uk) and Lewis Andrews (lewis@azelite.co.uk)

 

 

Mission Statement

​

As part of its mission, AZ Elite is committed to:

• Valuing, listening to and respecting children and young people as well as promoting their welfare and protection.

• Safe recruitment, supervision and training for all staff/coaches/volunteers.

• Adopting a procedure for dealing with any safeguarding / child protection concerns.

• Encouraging and supporting parents/carers.

• Supporting those affected.

• Making links with statutory childcare authorities and other organisations if and when required.

 

This policy covers all activities run by AZ Elite for children and young people under the age of 18 years. It sets out what action will be taken in various circumstances in order to reassure parents, carers and associated parties that all possible steps will be taken to protect children involved in any aspect of the programme’s activities.

 

Policy Framework and Responsibilities

The policy is governed by legislation and statutory guidance as below:

 

• The Children’s Act 1989 and 2004

• Children and Social Work Act 2017

• The London Child Protection Procedures 2016 (updated 31st March 2020)

• Working Together to Safeguard Children Procedures 2018

• Equality Act 2010

• Data Protection Act 1994 and 1998

• The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child

• Sexual Offences Act 2003 in England and Wales (amended 2022)

 

 

This policy is consistent with the All Wales Child Protection Procedures and guidance. In line with these procedures and guidelines, this policy acknowledges that:

 

• Child abuse exists and can present itself in any of its forms; physical, emotional, neglect, sexual, alone or in combination.

• Children may be abused and/or neglected by parents, carers, guardians, or other trusted adults, as well as strangers.

• Abuse may be perpetrated by individuals, groups, or networks of individuals.

• Children may also be abused by other children.

 

 

AZ Elite acknowledges the need to promote responsible relationships within cheerleading and dance, and to prevent the manipulation and exploitation of young people. A position of trust exists where an adult, because of their role, is in a position of power or influence over another person. Although young people aged 16 and 17 have reached the age of consent for sexual activity according to UK law, they can still be vulnerable to sexual abuse and exploitation in certain situations.

 

The law in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland now states that those in a position of trust in sports organisations, such as a coach or choreographer, cannot legally have a sexual relationship with young people they look after who are under 18 years old.

 

AZ Elite acknowledges that those in a position of trust have a positive influence on the welfare of our athletes by providing role models and a safe point of contact if athletes have a concern. As a result, we have clear boundaries in place for the safety of both our athletes and staff. These are clearly defined in our Codes of Conduct (see annex).

 

Training and Safer Recruitment

​

AZ Elite is committed to ongoing child protection training for all staff, coaches, and volunteers to develop their understanding of:

• The signs of abuse

• How to respond to disclosures of abuse

 

As part of our safeguarding practices:

 

• All new staff will be given a copy of our Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy.

• Anyone in a leadership role who has contact with children or young people must complete a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

• Anyone under the age of 18 cannot be counted in staffing ratios and should never be left in charge of a group of children.

 

Responsibilities

In undertaking our duty of care, AZ Elite will:

 

• Refer a child if there are concerns about possible abuse, liaise with relevant agencies, and act as a focal point for staff to discuss concerns.

• Keep written records of concerns about a child, even if there is no need for an immediate referral.

• Ensure that all records are kept confidentially and securely by the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).

 

Supporting Children

 

AZ Elite recognises that a child who has suffered from harm or witnessed violence may:

 

• Feel helpless and humiliated

• Blame themselves

• Find it difficult to develop and maintain a sense of self-worth

 

AZ Elite may provide important stability and consistency in the lives of children who have been abused or are at risk of harm.

 

To support all children, AZ Elite will:

 

• Provide emotional and developmental support by encouraging self-esteem and confidence, while not condoning aggression or bullying.

• Promote a positive and caring environment across all AZ Elite facilities.

• Liaise and work closely with all other support services and agencies involved in safeguarding children.

 

Confidentiality

​

We recognise that all matters relating to child protection are confidential.

The Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) will disclose any information about a child to other members of staff only on a need-to-know basis.

All staff must be aware that:

 

• They have a professional responsibility to share information with other agencies in order to safeguard children.

• They cannot promise a child to keep secrets which might compromise a child’s safety or wellbeing.

• We will always undertake to share our intention to refer a child to Children’s Services with their parents/carers, unless doing so could put the child at greater risk of harm or danger.

 

Supporting Staff

​

We recognise that staff who become involved with a child who has suffered harm, or appears to be suffering from harm, may find the situation stressful and upsetting.

We will support such staff by:

 

• Providing an opportunity to talk through their anxieties with the DSL

• Offering access to further support where appropriate

 

(Please note: All reporting documents can be found towards the end of this policy)

 

Allegations Against Staff

 

Staff should take care not to place themselves in a vulnerable position with a child. They should:

 

• Always be in full view or in open-door situations

• Avoid being alone in a room with a child with the door closed (refer to the Code of Conduct for Staff and Volunteers in Annex 3)

 

In the event of concerns:

 

• Any suspicion or allegation that a child has been abused by a staff member or volunteer should be reported immediately to the DSL.

• The DSL will take necessary steps to ensure the safety of the child and others potentially at risk.

• The DSL will refer the allegation to the appropriate Local Authority Children’s Services and contact the LADO (Local Authority Designated Officer) to determine next steps.

• Parents/carers will be contacted as soon as possible, following advice from Children’s Services.

• The DSL should also notify the relevant British Cheerleading Organisation officer, who will escalate to the organisation’s Child Protection Officer to handle any media enquiries.

• If the DSL is the subject of the suspicion or allegation, the report must be made to the appropriate manager, or in their absence, to the British Cheerleading Organisation Child Protection Officer, who will refer the matter to Children’s Services.

 

 

Bullying

 

AZ Elite’s Anti-Bullying Policy is set out in a separate document. We acknowledge that allowing or condoning bullying may lead to action under child protection procedures.

This includes all forms of bullying, such as:

 

• Cyberbullying

• Racist bullying

• Homophobic bullying

• Gender-related bullying

 

All staff are aware that children with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) or perceived differences are more vulnerable to bullying and abuse.

We maintain a record of all bullying incidents.

 

Radicalisation and Extremism

Since the implementation of the Prevent Strategy (2010), there has been a clear need to safeguard children, young people, and families from violent extremism.

Extremist groups may attempt to radicalise vulnerable individuals to hold extreme views, including political, religious, sexist, or racist ideologies or to adopt rigid worldviews that are intolerant of diversity.

 

If a staff member has concerns about radicalisation or terrorism risk:

 

• They should report the concern to the DSL, following normal safeguarding procedures.

• If the matter is urgent, contact Surrey Police on 999.

• For non-urgent cases, dial 101 to seek police advice.

 

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)

 

FGM is illegal in England and Wales under the FGM Act 2003. It is a form of child abuse and violence against women.

From 31 October 2015, teachers and professionals have a mandatory duty to report known cases of FGM in under-18s to the police.

If an adult is:

 

• Informed by a girl under 18 that she has undergone FGM

• Observes physical signs indicating FGM on a girl under 18, with no medical justification

They must:

 

• Call 101 and report it to the police force where the girl resides

• Inform the DSL, but the reporting duty remains with the individual

• Make the report by the close of the next working day

In cases where there is a risk to life or immediate harm, dial 999.

 

There are no circumstances in which coaching or non-coaching staff should physically examine a young person.

 

Contextual Safeguarding

​

Contextual Safeguarding, developed by Dr. Carlene Firmin at the University of Bedfordshire’s Contextual Safeguarding Network, recognises that as young people grow and develop, they are influenced by a wide range of environments and people outside of their family. These may include:

 

• School or college

• The local community

• Peer groups

• Social activities

• Online interactions

• ​

Children and young people may encounter risk in any of these environments. Sometimes, these different contexts are inter-related, and as a result, children may face multiple, overlapping risks. Parents and carers may have little influence over these environments, and experiences of extra-familial abuse can strain or undermine parent-child relationships.

Contextual Safeguarding therefore expands the objectives of traditional child protection systems to recognise that young people are vulnerable to abuse beyond the front door of their home.

If any member of staff has concerns regarding contextual harm, they must:

 

• Speak with the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

• Follow normal safeguarding procedures

• If urgent, contact Surrey Police by dialling 999

• In non-urgent cases where advice is needed, call 101

 

Prevention

​

We recognise that the programme plays a significant role in preventing harm by:

 

• Providing children with trusted lines of communication

• Encouraging supportive friendships

• Promoting an overall ethos of protection and openness

 

 

The AZ Elite community will:

 

• Work to establish and maintain an ethos where children feel safe, secure, and listened to

• Regularly consult with children about their feelings regarding the gym, training, and competitions

• Ensure that all children know there is always a trusted adult at the gym they can approach when worried or in difficulty

 

 

Review of Policy

The date of the next review will be: January 2026

 

 

 

Child Protection Policy

 

Appendices

 

ANNEX 1

 

 

Objectives

​

AZ Elite recognises the reality that children suffer from significant harm, which can sometimes occur both within and outside of the programme’s community. The directors of AZ Elite are committed to ensuring that the programme plays its part, alongside parents and other agencies, in preventing harm to children. This aligns with the programme’s mission statement and core aims.

 

Governing Principles

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• All children have the right to be protected.

• Child abuse occurs across all cultures, religions, and social classes.

• The prime concern must always be the interest and safety of the child.

• The responsibility to refer children thought to be at risk lies with the person who has the concern.

• Children who have suffered or are at risk of suffering significant harm need the same care and sensitivity, regardless of whether the harm was caused by a parent, carer, or stranger.

• One of our aims should always be to minimise harm and promote recovery.

• Procedures provide a framework to help ensure the programme takes appropriate action to protect children. They are not and cannot be a substitute for professional judgement and sensitivity.

 

 

The Policy

Recognising Signs of Child Abuse

 

Definition of Harm

• Physical

• Emotional

• Sexual

• Neglect

 

 

Signs of Abuse in Children

​

The following non-specific signs may indicate that something is wrong:

 

• Significant change in behaviour

• Extreme anger or sadness

• Aggressive and attention-seeking behaviour

• Suspicious bruises with unsatisfactory explanations

• Lack of self-esteem

• Self-injury

• Depression

• Age-inappropriate sexual behaviour

• Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE)

 

 

Risk Indicators

​

The factors described in this section are frequently found in cases of child abuse. Their presence is not proof that abuse has occurred, but:

 

• Must be regarded as indicators of possible significant harm

• Justify the need for careful assessment and discussion with the designated/named/lead safeguarding person, manager, or (in their absence) an experienced colleague

• May require consultation with and/or referral to Children’s Services

 

The absence of such indicators does not mean that abuse or neglect has not occurred.

 

 

In an Abusive Relationship, the Child May:

​

• Appear frightened of the parent(s)

• Act in a way that is inappropriate for their age or stage of development
  (While also considering cultural or developmental variation across ethnic groups)

 

The Parent or Carer May:

​

• Persistently avoid child health promotion services or treatment for the child’s illnesses

• Have unrealistic expectations of the child

• Frequently complain about or to the child, failing to provide praise or attention
  (creating a high criticism/low warmth environment)

• Be absent or misuse substances

• Persistently refuse to allow access to home visits

• Be involved in domestic abuse

 

Additional Awareness

​

Staff should be alert to the potential risk to children when individuals who are known or suspected of previously abusing children move into the household.

 

 

Recognising Physical Harm

​

The following are often regarded as indicators of concern:

 

• An explanation which is inconsistent with an injury

• Several different explanations provided for an injury

• Unexplained delay in seeking treatment

• Parents/carers appear uninterested or undisturbed by an accident or injury

• Parents are absent without good reason when their child is presented for treatment

• Repeated presentation of minor injuries (which may represent a “cry for help” and, if ignored, could lead to a more serious injury)

• Family use of different doctors and A&E departments

• Reluctance to give information or mention previous injuries

 

Bruising

​

Children can have accidental bruising, but the following must be considered non-accidental unless there is evidence or an adequate explanation:

 

• Any bruising to a pre-crawling or pre-walking baby

• Bruising in or around the mouth, particularly in small babies (may indicate force feeding)

• Two simultaneous bruised eyes, without forehead bruising (rarely accidental; one bruised eye may be accidental or abusive)

• Repeated or multiple bruising on the head or in locations unlikely to be injured accidentally

• Variation in colour, possibly indicating injuries caused at different times

• The outline of an object used (e.g. belt marks, hand prints, hairbrush)

• Bruising or tears around/behind the earlobes (may indicate pulling or twisting)

• Bruising around the face

• Grasp marks on small children

• Bruising on arms, buttocks, or thighs, may be indicators of sexual abuse

 

Bite Marks

​

Bite marks can leave clear impressions of teeth. Human bite marks are oval or crescent-shaped.

Those over 3 cm in diameter are more likely caused by an adult or older child.

 

A medical opinion should be sought if there is any doubt over the origin of the bite.

 

Burns and Scalds

​

It can be difficult to distinguish between accidental and non-accidental burns/scalds, and medical expertise is essential.

 

Burns with a clear outline may be suspicious, e.g.:

• Circular burns from cigarettes (though friction burns may appear similar along bony areas like the spine)

• Linear burns from hot metal rods or electric elements

• Burns of uniform depth over a large area

• Scalds with a water line (indicating immersion) or poured liquid

• Scars from old burns/scalds without adequate treatment or explanation

• Scalds to buttocks, particularly without burns to the feet (suggesting dipping into hot liquid)

 

Fractures

​

Fractures may result in pain, swelling, and discolouration over bones or joints.

Non-mobile children rarely sustain fractures.

 

There is cause for concern if:

 

• The history provided is vague, absent, or inconsistent with the fracture type

• There are old/healed fractures alongside new ones

• Medical attention is delayed despite symptoms like pain or swelling

• There is any unexplained fracture in the first year of life

 

Scars

​

A large number of scars or scars of different sizes, ages, or locations may suggest abuse.

 

Recognising Emotional Abuse

Emotional abuse can be difficult to identify, as signs are typically behavioural rather than physical.

Often, emotional abuse exists alongside other forms of abuse.

 

Possible indicators include:

 

• Developmental delay

• Abnormal attachment between child and parent/carer (e.g., anxious or indiscriminate attachment)

• Indiscriminate or absent attachment

• Aggressive behaviour toward others

• Being scapegoated within the family

• “Frozen watchfulness,” especially in pre-school children

• Low self-esteem and lack of confidence

• Social withdrawal or appearing as a “loner”

 

Recognising Signs of Sexual Abuse

​

Boys and girls of all ages may be sexually abused. Many children are afraid to speak up due to guilt or fear.

Recognition is particularly challenging unless the child discloses — and is believed.

 

There may be no physical signs; emotional/behavioural indicators are often more evident.

 

Behavioural signs include:

 

• Inappropriate sexualised behaviour

• Sexually explicit behaviour or talk, not age-appropriate

• Continual or excessive masturbation

• Self-harm, eating disorders, or suicide attempts

• Involvement in prostitution or indiscriminate sexual partners

• Anxiety about removing clothes (e.g., for sports); note that this may be cultural or physical in origin

 

Physical signs may include:

 

• Pain or itching in the genital area

• Blood on underclothing

• Pregnancy in a young girl with undisclosed father’s identity

• Injuries to genital or anal area

• Bruising to buttocks, abdomen, or thighs

• Sexually transmitted diseases

• Presence of semen on genitalia, anus, or clothing

 

Recognising Neglect

​

Neglect often builds over time and can affect many areas of a child’s development.

 

Indicators include:

 

• Failure by parents/carers to meet essential needs: food, clothing, warmth, hygiene, medical care

• Apathy, listlessness, or lack of responsiveness without medical cause

• Child not growing within normal patterns (accompanied by weight loss)

• Child thrives better outside the home environment

• Frequent school absences

• Being left in the care of intoxicated or violent adults

• Child abandoned or left alone for long periods

 

Domestic Abuse

​

How does it affect children?

Children can be traumatised by seeing and hearing violence and abuse. They may also be directly targeted by the abuser or take on a protective role and get caught in the middle. In the long term, this can lead to mental health issues such as depression, self-harm, and anxiety.

 

What are the signs to look out for?

Children affected by domestic abuse reflect their distress in a variety of ways. They may:

 

• Change their usual behaviour and become withdrawn or tired

• Start to wet the bed

• Exhibit behavioural difficulties

• Become reluctant to leave home or return to it

• Appear to excel or thrive in structured settings like AZ ELITE as a way to escape home life

 

 

None of these signs are exclusive to domestic abuse, so when considering changes in behaviour or concerns about a child, domestic abuse should be considered as a potential factor.

 

 

What should I do if I suspect a family is affected by domestic abuse?

​

To talk through your concerns, contact the RISE Helpline at:

📞 02920 460566

 

Equality Statement

​

AZ Elite is committed to all children and young people within its programme and will ensure that each young person is given the same level of protection regardless of age, disability, gender, racial heritage, religious belief, sexual orientation, or identity.

 

Disclosure Procedures: Responding to Allegations of Abuse

​

Under no circumstances should coaching staff, non-coaching staff, or volunteers carry out their own investigation into any allegations or suspicions of abuse. The person in receipt of the information should do the following:

 

• Write down what you have been told or seen as quickly as possible after the incident. Sign and date the record. Do not include personal thoughts or feelings. The record must be factual and accurate.

• Use the exact words expressed by the individual, where possible.

• Inform a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) as soon as possible.

• If an allegation is made against anyone within the AZ Elite programme (including a Director), do not speak to the person about the allegation.

• Suspicions must not be discussed with anyone other than the nominated DSL.

• If a referral to Social Services or the Police is required, do not delay if the nominated DSL is unavailable.

• Where the level of concern is unclear, consult with Children’s Services MASH / First Response Team, who will help determine if immediate action is needed or whether a referral is appropriate.

• Do not question the child or young person in an attempt to gather more information.

• Concerns should, where appropriate, be discussed with the parent or carer and their agreement sought before making a referral to Children’s Services, unless doing so would place the child at increased or immediate risk of harm.

 

 

The role of the nominated DSL is to collate and clarify the details of the allegation or concern and pass the information on to Children’s Services.

 

Only Children’s Services are responsible for investigating child protection matters and for undertaking Section 47 investigations, if deemed necessary.

 

Guidelines for Responding to an Allegation of Harm from a Child

​

• Keep calm, do not appear shocked or disgusted.

• Accept what the child says without judgment, even if it sounds unlikely.

• Look directly at the child.

• Let them know you cannot promise confidentiality; explain you may need to share what they’ve said.

• Be aware the child may have been threatened and fear consequences for speaking out.

• Never push for more information, this could compromise a future investigation.

 

A child may disclose abuse to an adult they trust. This is a significant step and should be handled with great sensitivity. If the child shares information in confidence, make it clear that you may need to share the information to help keep them safe. If they don’t agree, do not pressure them, but report the concern to the DSL immediately.

 

 

AZ Elite Child Protection Policy – ANNEX 2: DISCLOSURE PROFORMA

​

If a child or adult wishes to make a disclosure, please use the proforma to record all information accurately. The individual must be made aware that their information will be recorded and potentially shared with safeguarding authorities.

 

Basic Principles for Disclosure Discussions:

​

• Listen, do not ask direct or leading questions.

• Do not jump to conclusions.

• Do not stop a child who is recalling significant events.

• Make a detailed record, including:

  • Time and date

  • Setting and who was present

  • Exact words used​

• Record any subsequent events leading up to a formal interview by the investigating team.

 

 

These records may be required by Children’s Services and potentially the Police if legal proceedings follow.

 

 

AZ ELITE Child Protection Policy

 

ANNEX 3 – Codes of Conduct

 

Code of Conduct for Staff and Volunteers

​

This behaviour code outlines the conduct that AZ Elite expects from all staff and volunteers.

This includes coaches, choreographers, team mums/dads, and anyone undertaking duties for our programme, whether paid or unpaid.

 

The code is designed to help protect children and young people from abuse. AZ Elite is responsible for ensuring that all staff and volunteers have read, understood, and agreed to follow this code of behaviour and understand the consequences of inappropriate conduct.

 

The Role of Staff and Volunteers

​

In your role at AZ Elite, you are acting in a position of trust and authority and have a duty of care towards the children and young people we work with. You are likely to be seen as a role model and are expected to behave appropriately. This includes behaviour outside of AZ Elite settings and online.

 

Responsibilities of Staff and Volunteers

​

You are responsible for:

 

• Prioritising the welfare of children and young people

• Providing a safe environment, including:

  • Using equipment safely and appropriately

  • Being aware of safeguarding and child protection issues, and acting when appropriate

• ​

• Following all AZ Elite policies and procedures

• Staying within the law at all times

• Modelling good behaviour for children and young people

• Challenging inappropriate behaviour and reporting any breaches of this code to:

  • Molly Lia (DSL)

  • Sian Williams (ASL)

• Reporting concerns about abusive behaviour, including:

  • Inappropriate behaviour by adults or children, directed at any individual, regardless of age

 

Respecting Children and Young People

​

You should:

 

• Listen to and respect children at all times

• Take children’s contributions seriously

• Motivate athletes to build self-confidence and self-esteem

• Adopt a positive coaching style based on encouragement and skill development

• Provide constructive feedback in a supportive and growth-focused manner

• Respect a young person’s right to privacy wherever possible

  • If confidentiality must be broken due to safeguarding concerns, explain this to the child as early as possible

 

Diversity and Inclusion

​

You should:

• Treat all children and young people fairly and without discrimination

• Recognise that children and young people are individuals with unique needs

• Respect differences in gender, sexual orientation, culture, race, ethnicity, disability, and beliefs

• Acknowledge that every participant contributes something valuable and unique to the team

• Treat all athletes with dignity, fairness, and respect, regardless of skill or performance

• Challenge discrimination or prejudice

• Encourage children and adults to speak out about attitudes or behaviours that make them uncomfortable

 

Appropriate Relationships

​

You should:

• Promote relationships based on trust, honesty, openness, and respect

• Avoid favouritism

• Be patient

• Never use harsh criticism, belittling, or emotional mistreatment

• Foster a positive and inclusive team atmosphere

• Be cautious when discussing sensitive issues with children or young people

• Ensure that contact with young people is appropriate and relevant to your role

• Ensure two adults are present during activities with children, whenever possible:

  • If alone with a child, stay visible or within hearing distance of other adults

  • If a child requests private time, ensure another adult is aware of your location​

• Only provide personal care in an emergency and with another adult present, unless part of your role and you have received training

 

Inappropriate Behaviour

​

You must not:

• Ignore or fail to report concerns or allegations

• Take unnecessary risks

• Smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal substances

• Develop inappropriate relationships with children or young people

• Make inappropriate promises

• Engage in any abusive behaviour or sexual contact with a child or young person

• Communicate with young people via personal social media accounts or private WhatsApp groups without another adult present

• Behave in a way that could be perceived as threatening or intrusive

• Patronise or belittle children

• Make sarcastic, insensitive, derogatory, or sexually suggestive comments or gestures

 

Upholding this Code of Behaviour

​

You must always follow this code. Never rely on your reputation or that of AZ ELITE to protect you. If you behave inappropriately, you may face disciplinary action. This could include:

• Removal from AZ Elite

• A report to statutory agencies such as the police or children’s services

 

If you become aware of any breach of this code, report it to:

• Molly Lia (DSL)

• Sian Williams (ASL)

If necessary, follow the AZ Elite safeguarding and child protection procedures.

 

 

Local Referral, Intervention and Assessment Services

​

CYPF: Emotional wellbeing & Mental Health - part of the Children, Young People and Family Health Services at Cardiff & Vale. 

Contact Number: 02921 836730

Email: ewmh.cav@wales.nhs.uk

 

Multi - Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) - a first point of contact. 

Contact Number: 02920 536490

Out of Hours Contact Number: 02920 788570

 

Where to find more information: 

Cardiff and Vale Safeguarding Board: (Offers information and resources on safeguarding children 

NSPCC: Provides information on types of abuse and signs of abuse.

Gov.UK: Explains what happens when you report child abuse

South Wales Police: Provides information on how to report possible child abuse.

 

Get Advice

• NSPCC (for adults): 0808 800 5000

• ChildLine (for children and young people): 0800 1111 (free)
  The ChildLine number will not appear on phone bills from most mobile networks or landlines.

 

Designated Safeguarding Leads for AZ Elite Cheer & Dance Programme

 

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL):

Miss Molly Lia

Email: molly@azelite.co.uk

 

Assistant Safeguarding Leads (ASL):

Mrs Sian James

Email: sianwilliams@hotmail.com

 

 

AZ Elite Statement on Safeguarding

​

AZ Elite recognises the importance of its responsibility to protect and safeguard the welfare of children and young people entrusted to its care. We understand that all adults, including temporary staff and volunteers play a full and active role in protecting our children from harm. The child’s welfare is our paramount concern.

 

As an organisation working with children and young people, AZ Elite has a duty to act if any safeguarding concern arises and, as far as possible, to protect children from harm within the programme.

 

⚠️ In an urgent situation where a child is in immediate danger, dial 999 to contact the Police.

If there are concerns that a child or young person may be at risk of harm, contact the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) or the relevant Local Authority Children’s Services as soon as possible.