Safeguarding
Safeguarding officer - Liz
Riding for The Disabled (RDA) national lays down Guidelines for a robust Safeguarding Policy and Mid Sussex RDAokfollows these guidelines. All volunteers are DBS checked. All coaches complete Safeguarding training.
Our coaches are regularly assessed by qualified coaches from RDA National and annual training days are held for our volunteers both in-house and at riding centres around the country. Additional training is held as needed.
As a group, we can always call on the expert advice of an RDA physiotherapist if we have any problems regarding a rider`s disabilities or perhaps the safest method for mounting and dismounting.
All riders must complete an Application Form and a detailed assessment is completed before they ride. If we have any doubts about the advisability of a person riding with us, then the general practitioner will be asked for their advice.
Code of Conduct
The aim of this code of conduct is to create a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone involved at Mid Sussex RDA
-
Treat everyone equally, with respect and dignity and never engage in deliberately hurtful behaviour.
-
Bullying will not be tolerated in any form.
-
Everyone associated with Mid Sussex RDA has a duty of care towards each other. Never abuse any position of trust you may hold and always act within appropriate boundaries, even in difficult circumstances.
-
Set an example you wish others to follow and remember everybody is a role model at all times, inside and outside of RDA.
-
Physical contact should only be made with a child, young person or adult at risk in response to their needs at the time, and this should be appropriate to their age, gender, ethnicity and ability. Always explain your actions first and ensure you have consent.
-
Never allow or engage in rough, physical or sexually provocative games, and refrain from making sexually suggestive remarks, even in fun.
-
Inappropriate language should always be challenged.
-
Ensure that wherever possible parents/carers are responsible for an individual’s personal care, such as using the toilet. Never do things of a personal nature that someone can do for themselves.
-
Other than parents or guardians, never be alone with a child, young person or adult at risk when not in sight and hearing of others. This includes in a vehicle or private car.
-
Other than parents or guardians, never take a child, young person or vulnerable adult to your house where they will be alone with you, or transport them from one location to another by yourself.
-
Always ensure an appropriate level of supervision. Children, young people and adults at risk should always have a responsible adult supervising their activity.
-
Dress in a safe and appropriate manner for your time within RDA.
-
No one should be under the influence of alcohol/illegal substances whilst active within an RDA environment or acting in a capacity for RDA.
-
Always inform your Safeguarding Officer immediately: Mid Sussex RDA’s Safe Guarding officer is Liz King.
-
You have any allegations made to you or any concerns yourself – it is unacceptable to not act upon a genuine concern. This includes those involving you directly.
-
You feel someone else has misinterpreted what you have said or done.
-
You have had to restrain or accidentally hurt a child, young person or adult at risk.
-
You think you may have breached the code of conduct.
-
You should never plan to be in a situation where you are alone with one child, young person or adult at risk. Should an emergency occur, you must consider what action you are able to take, to ensure the situation is as safe as possible for everyone involved.