To ensure a safe and secure environment, prevent athlete sexual abuse, provide education on anti-bullying, and to create an inclusive environment for all swimmers, participating athletes, volunteers, members and their families, Lakeridge Swim Club’s (LSC / the Club) written abuse policy clearly outlines our organization's commitment to preventing and responding to abuse, including defining abuse, reporting procedures, and disciplinary actions.
1. Policy Statement and Purpose:
Zero-Tolerance Approach:
LSC has a zero-tolerance policy for all forms of abuse, neglect, and exploitation. This includes but is not limited to physical, emotional, sexual, financial, and neglectful behaviors.
Commitment to Safety:
LSC is committed to create and maintain a safe environment for all individuals.
Purpose:
The purpose of the policy is to prevent abuse and protect vulnerable individuals.
2. Definitions of Abuse and Neglect:
Types of Abuse: There are different types of abuse, including physical, sexual, emotional, and neglect.
Inappropriate Behaviors include but are not limited to slapping, pinching, choking, kicking, shoving, or inappropriately using drugs or physical restraints; signs of physical abuse. Indications of sexual abuse, including nonconsensual sexual contact or any unwanted sexual contact.
3. Reporting Procedures:
Mandatory Reporting:
All staff, volunteers, and board members are required to report suspected or known abuse and neglect.
Reporting Channels:
The channels for reporting abuse or neglect, include internal reporting to Club management procedures and reporting to external authorities, up to and including local police.
To report suspected abuse or neglect, you can contact the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-422-4453, or utilize the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children for online exploitation concerns.
Confidentiality:
Reports will be handled confidentially, while ensuring appropriate action is taken.
Investigation:
The Club will investigate allegations of abuse or neglect and cooperate with law enforcement.
4. Disciplinary Actions:
Consequences:
The consequences for individuals who engage in abusive or neglectful behavior include disciplinary actions up to and including termination of employment or membership.
Zero Tolerance:
Lakeridge Swim Club has a zero-tolerance approach to inappropriate behaviors, and abuse and neglect are taken seriously.
5. Training and Education:
Staff Training:
We will require regular training for all staff on recognizing, preventing, and reporting abuse and neglect.
Policy Acknowledgment:
Require staff and volunteers to acknowledge that they have read and understand the policy. Employees are required to sign that they have read and understand the written abuse policy.
6. Other Important Considerations:
Advisory Board:
The Club Board will assist management in decision-making related to abuse prevention and response.
Communication:
A clear communication plan will be put in place to inform parents, guardians, and the community about the policy and any relevant incidents.
Review and Updates:
The Club will regularly review and update the policy to ensure its effectiveness and relevance.
Legal Compliance:
The Club policy complies with all relevant laws and regulations.
