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Safeguarding Policy

Last updated: March 2026

1. Policy Statement

Advanced Race Coaching Ltd ("ARC") is committed to safeguarding the welfare of all children, young people, and adults at risk who participate in our coaching programmes. We believe that everyone has the right to participate in sailing in a safe, positive, and enjoyable environment, free from abuse, bullying, and harassment.

This policy applies to all ARC coaches, staff, volunteers, and anyone acting on behalf of ARC.

2. Designated Safeguarding Lead

Chris Fry — Founder & Designated Safeguarding Lead
Email: [email protected]
Chris holds current RYA Safeguarding certification and an enhanced DBS check.

3. Our Commitment

ARC is committed to:

  • The welfare of all participants, with the safety of children and young people being paramount
  • Taking all reasonable steps to protect participants from harm, discrimination, and degrading treatment
  • Ensuring all coaches and staff undergo appropriate vetting, including enhanced DBS checks
  • Providing safeguarding training to all coaches and volunteers
  • Responding promptly and appropriately to all safeguarding concerns
  • Working in partnership with parents, carers, and external agencies where necessary

4. Recruitment & Vetting

All ARC coaches and volunteers who work with children or adults at risk must:

  • Hold a valid enhanced DBS check (or be willing to obtain one before commencing work)
  • Complete RYA Safeguarding & Protecting Children training (or equivalent)
  • Provide at least two references
  • Agree to abide by this Safeguarding Policy and ARC's Code of Conduct

5. Code of Conduct for Coaches & Staff

All ARC coaches and staff must:

  • Treat all participants with respect and dignity
  • Avoid unnecessary physical contact with young people
  • Never be alone with a child or young person in an unsupervised setting
  • Ensure that coaching sessions are conducted in open, visible environments
  • Use age-appropriate language and coaching methods
  • Report any safeguarding concerns immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Lead
  • Never use their position to intimidate, bully, or form inappropriate relationships

6. Photography & Video

ARC uses 360° on-boat camera technology for coaching purposes. All video and photography involving participants under 18 requires written parental or guardian consent. Images and video will be stored securely and used only for coaching analysis unless explicit consent is given for promotional use. Participants or their parents/guardians may withdraw consent at any time.

7. Recognising Abuse

All ARC coaches and staff are trained to recognise the signs of:

  • Physical abuse: Unexplained injuries, flinching, fear of physical contact
  • Emotional abuse: Withdrawal, low self-esteem, fearfulness, behavioural changes
  • Sexual abuse: Inappropriate sexual behaviour or knowledge, reluctance to undress
  • Neglect: Poor hygiene, inadequate clothing or equipment, hunger, tiredness
  • Bullying: Including verbal, physical, and online bullying

8. Reporting Concerns

If you have a safeguarding concern:

  1. Immediate danger: Call 999
  2. Report to ARC: Contact Chris Fry (Designated Safeguarding Lead) at [email protected]
  3. External reporting: You can also contact the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000 or the RYA Safeguarding Team

All concerns will be taken seriously, recorded in writing, and handled confidentially. ARC will cooperate fully with statutory agencies in any investigation.

9. Responding to Disclosures

If a child or young person discloses abuse to you:

  • Stay calm and listen carefully
  • Reassure them that they have done the right thing by telling you
  • Do not promise confidentiality — explain that you may need to tell someone who can help
  • Do not ask leading questions or investigate yourself
  • Record what was said as soon as possible, using the child's own words
  • Report immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Lead

10. On-Water Safety

In addition to safeguarding, ARC takes the following safety measures during all on-water sessions:

  • All coaches hold valid RYA Powerboat Level 2 (or higher) qualifications
  • Current First Aid certification is required for all on-water coaches
  • Risk assessments are completed before every session
  • Appropriate safety boat cover is provided at all times
  • Participants must wear appropriate buoyancy aids and personal protective equipment
  • Weather conditions are assessed, and sessions are cancelled or modified if conditions are unsafe

11. Anti-Bullying

ARC has a zero-tolerance approach to bullying of any kind. All participants are expected to treat each other with respect. Any reports of bullying will be investigated promptly and appropriate action taken, which may include exclusion from ARC programmes.

12. Review

This policy is reviewed annually and updated as necessary. All coaches and staff are required to re-read and acknowledge this policy each year.

13. Contact

For any safeguarding queries or concerns:
Chris Fry — Designated Safeguarding Lead
Advanced Race Coaching Ltd
Email: [email protected]

Useful Contacts

  • NSPCC Helpline: 0808 800 5000
  • Childline: 0800 1111
  • RYA Safeguarding Team: [email protected]
  • Police (non-emergency): 101
  • Emergency: 999