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Information for parents and carers
It's really important for your child to experience positive activities in their free time. By taking part in positive activities young people can develop their social and communication skills, and gain self confidence and self esteem. Young people who are engaged in positive activities are less likely to become involved in anti social or criminal behaviour.
Many activities are supported by volunteers who generously give their time to provide regular activities for your child. However, whether or not workers are paid, you should expect the same standards from all organisations.
Parents and carers have a right and a responsibility to ensure that their children are safe at all times. We have provided the advice below to help you decide whether activities found through this website are suitable for your child.
What should you check out?
A good organisation will welcome questions about their activities and the safety of their environment. All organisations should have a child protection policy; including a statement on, and guidelines about, keeping children safe.
Are the staff and volunteers suitable to work with children?
All staff and volunteers should go through a proper recruitment process which includes interviews, references and police checks.
Is there a written code of behaviour?
All organisations should have a written code of behaviour, which outlines good practice when working with children. An environment which allows oppressive behaviour such as bullying, shouting, racism and sexism is not acceptable.
How does the organisation manage staff and volunteers?
There should be someone in charge who supervises staff and volunteers and is able to act appropriately if there are concerns about a child.
Do they offer regular training to staff and volunteers?
Apart from skills training, all workers should have training in child protection and health and safety.
How can children and their parents or carers voice their concerns?
Organisations should tell you where to go and what to do if you or your child have any worries. If you are unhappy about the way your concern is dealt with, contact any of the organisations listed below.
How does the organisation provide for intimate care needs?
In the case of those with a disability, you should check out routines for toiletting, feeding and administering medication.
Does the organisation have a health and safety policy?
Find out if there is a leader qualified in first aid; that there is a first aid box; and that the premises have passed fire regulations.
What are the arrangements when children go on outings?
You should be informed of arrangements - including transport to and from - for every outing no matter how long or short, and your consent should be requested (for children under 18).
Does the organisation have an internet safety policy?
If the organisation allows children to access the internet, find out what guidelines or filtering software they have in place for safe surfing.
What should you be wary of?
- Activities where parents are discouraged from staying to watch or become involved.
- Behaviour or activities that encourage rough play, sexual innuendo or humiliating punishments.
- Individuals who take charge and operate independently of organisational guidelines.
- Individuals who show favouritism or personally reward specific children.
- Encouragement of inappropriate physical contact.
- Poor communication and lack of parental involvement, leaving you feeling uneasy.
- Children who drop out or stop going for no apparent reason.
- Invitations for children to spend time alone with staff or volunteers (or even to visit their home).
REMEMBER listen to your children and ask questions about the activities they take part in.
How should you share your concerns?
You may feel reluctant to voice your concerns in case you are wrong or worried about the impact on your child, but if you are concerned you must take action.
- Speak to other parents.
- Speak to the leader in charge.
- If you are not confident that they are the appropriate person, speak to someone in a higher position of authority.
- If you are unhappy about the response you receive, please contact one of the organisations below.
- If you have a serious concern about a child at risk of abuse, please contact the NSPCC Child Protection Helpline, or your local social services department or the police.
NSPCC Child Protection Helpline 0808 800 5000 NSPCC; a free 24 hour service which provides counselling, information and advice, to anyone concerned about a child at risk of abuse. Visit the NSPCC website for more information.