Safeguarding

Shefford and District Angling Association (SDAA) is committed to ensuring that angling is a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable activity for all participants. We recognise our responsibility to safeguard both children and adults, and to promote a culture where everyone feels respected, supported, and protected from harm.

SDAA adopts and adheres to the safeguarding policies and guidance provided by the Angling Trust. These policies form the foundation of our safeguarding arrangements and are supported by additional measures to ensure effective implementation across the club.

Our Commitment

• We formally adopt the Angling Trust safeguarding policies and procedures.

• We adhere to all Angling Trust guidance and best practice.

• We obtain professional safeguarding support from the Angling Trust where required.

• We undertake recognised safeguarding training delivered by the Angling Trust, including training provided by Di Murray, Safeguarding Lead Officer.

• We ensure that our members operate within these standards to maintain a safe and supportive environment.

Safeguarding for Children and Young People

Safeguarding in angling ensures that children and young people can participate in the sport in a safe, enjoyable, and supportive environment.

This includes:

• Protecting children from harm, abuse, bullying, or exploitation

• Providing clear guidance on appropriate behaviour and conduct

• Ensuring that responsible and trusted adults are present and accessible

• Promoting a culture where concerns can be raised and addressed openly

• Supporting the wellbeing and enjoyment of young people at all times

Effective safeguarding places the needs and welfare of children at the centre of all club activity, enabling them to develop confidence, skills, and a lifelong enjoyment of angling.

Safeguarding for Adults

SDAA is equally committed to safeguarding adults, particularly those who may have vulnerabilities.

Safeguarding for adults focuses on:

• Promoting respect, dignity, and inclusion within the club

• Preventing harm, abuse, or exploitation

• Ensuring clear procedures are in place to support concerns or incidents

• Recognising that vulnerability can affect anyone at different times in their lives

Our approach ensures that all adults participating in angling are treated fairly and are able to take part in a safe and supportive environment.

Safeguarding Culture

“The Angling Trust aims to foster a safeguarding culture where everyone can participate in angling safely. It is essential that clear policies and procedures are in place, ensuring that everyone knows how to maintain the highest standards of safety and support. By working together, we can ensure angling remains a safe and inclusive environment for all.”

Di Murray
Safeguarding Lead Officer

SDAA fully supports this approach and is committed to embedding safeguarding into all aspects of club activity.

Policies and Further Information

The club’s safeguarding arrangements are underpinned by Angling Trust policies and guidance.

Please refer to the links below for full details:

Angling Trust Safeguarding Page

Safeguarding Children's Policy

Safeguarding Adults Policy

Easy Read Children's Policy

Easy Read Adults Policy

Anti Bullying & Anti Harassment Policy

Raising a Concern

Anyone with a safeguarding concern is encouraged to speak up. Concerns will be taken seriously, handled sensitively, and addressed in line with established procedures. Please contact Dean Ayres, our Welfare Officer at wellfareofficer@shefforddaa.org.uk

Where appropriate, safeguarding concerns may be escalated to the Angling Trust or relevant authorities to ensure the safety and wellbeing of those involved.

Summary

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. By working together and following agreed policies and guidance, SDAA aims to ensure that angling remains a safe, welcoming, and enjoyable activity for all members of the community.