Safeguarding & Welfare
Introduction
Bedford Angling Club believe that it is critical that everyone who takes part in our sport with us does so in a safe and positive environment.​.​
For Children and Young People
Safeguarding in angling ensures that children and young people can take part in our sport in a safe, enjoyable, and supportive environment. It focuses on protecting them from harm, abuse, bullying, or unsafe situations and providing trusted adults they can turn to for help. Effective safeguarding prioritises children’s overall wellbeing so they can fully enjoy their angling experience.
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For Adults
Safeguarding also protects adults, particularly those who may have vulnerabilities, by promoting respect, safety, and inclusion within angling communities. It aims to prevent harm, abuse, or exploitation and ensures there are clear policies and procedures in place to support adults who may need help. It is important to recognise that everyone can be vulnerable at different times in their lives. This is why safeguarding measures must be in place to protect all adults, ensuring their safety, dignity, and wellbeing.“
Safeguarding Concerns
Safeguarding concerns may be incidents of minor poor practice, serious or repeated poor practice or actual abuse. Sometimes concerns may involve individuals operating within angling (e.g. coaches, volunteers, or other anglers) and sometimes they may involve issues that have occurred outside of the sport (e.g. at home, school or in the wider community). In either case whether you are concerned about a child or adult’s welfare, this should be reported to the Club Welfare Officer or the named Safeguarding Officer or Angling Trust staff member at an event as soon as possible. Remember, it is not for you to decide whether abuse has taken place, but you are responsible for reporting the concerns. All safeguarding concerns will then be reported to the Angling Trust using their online reporting tool.
If we become aware of a safeguarding or wellbeing concern at our club, or any event we attend, it is important these are responded to and reported quickly. See below the Angling Trust flowcharts which are useful points of reference for all.
Key Contacts
If you have any concerns or queries related to safeguarding or welfare at the Club then your first points of contact are:
Simon Campbell - Chair and Interim Welfare Officer
Adam Clough - Committee Member and Interim Deputy Welfare Officer​​
Simon Campbell Interim Welfare Officer
