Duty of care support for clubs
A NEW WEBSITE SECTION – DUTY OF CARE and Welfare at
bsac . com / dutyofcare – has been created to support clubs in carrying out their responsibilities to ensure that all members , visitors , and volunteers can enjoy the activities offered by the club in a safe environment .
As our world progresses , the advice evolves a little too . Following the recent launch of the BSAC Equality , Diversity and Inclusion Policy , this new web section now brings together in one place the measures needed and support available for clubs to take the right steps .
The new online section includes guidance and support on the following areas :
Minding our language
SINCE ITS LAUNCH BACK IN APRIL , BSAC ’ S NEW LANGUAGE AWARENESS Course has been accessed by many members , not just in the UK but around the globe .
The online course , which is part of BSAC ’ s refreshed Equality , Diversity and Inclusion Policy , aims to support branches to ensure their club is inclusive and welcoming to all .
Free for all members , the course covers the use of appropriate language for a supportive club environment and takes around 30 minutes to complete . Over 100 members , instructors and branch officers have completed the course so far , with participants from the US , Australia , and Europe , as well as the UK .
Maggie Driscoll of Cardigan SAC was one of the first members to complete the Language Awareness Course , which she described as ‘ quick and easy to do ’.
“ I particularly found some of the examples of how language use , however unintentional , may no longer be appropriate in this ever-changing world – and how , with some awareness , a little thought and a few small changes , everyone can become more inclusive ,” she added .
BSAC Eastern Regional Coach Lisa Shafe , who worked on developing the course , said it was an invaluable resource for creating a welcoming and inclusive club environment .
‘ It is great to see the numbers completing this awareness course increasing ; we have had several members already respond to say that it has really made them think about the language they are using .
■ Ensuring all activities take place in a safe environment that complies with legal requirements and those set by BSAC .
■ The club has the necessary provision for the safeguarding and welfare of its members , including having the relevant DBS checks ( or PVG checks in Scotland , and Access NI in Northern Ireland ).
■ Matters surrounding equality , diversity , and inclusion to ensure members are treated fairly and with respect .
The new section includes a checklist so clubs can easily see where any gaps may be and where to go for support . Further work is continuing in this area , with an online course to support Welfare Officers and greater support surrounding DBS checks .
BSAC CEO Mary Tetley said : “ BSAC is committed to ensuring that everyone who takes part in our activities are able to have fun and participate in an environment that keeps them safe .
“ We know clubs have been taking great care of members for many years . However , now is the time perhaps to take another look at your club ’ s activities to check we are compliant in these areas , particularly surrounding safeguarding and compliance with DBS checking .”
If you have any questions or need support , please email the BSAC Welfare Officer Mary Tetley
at welfare @ bsac . com
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