At Tigers Basketball CIC, the welfare and safety of children, young people, and vulnerable adults are our highest priority. Our safeguarding policies and practices reflect our commitment to providing a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable environment for everyone involved in our programs.

Our Safeguarding Commitment

We are legally and morally committed to safeguarding the wellbeing of all children and young people, ensuring they are protected from abuse, neglect, and poor practice. Our approach to safeguarding emphasises:

• Child and Young Person-Centred Care: Activities are designed to prioritise the needs, safety, and enjoyment of children and young people.
• Equality and Inclusivity: Regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, or socio-economic background, every child has the right to participate in a safe and positive environment.
• Recognising Vulnerabilities: We acknowledge that some children and young people, such as those with disabilities or from underserved communities, may face additional risks, and we are committed to addressing their unique needs.

Contextual Safeguarding

Our programs often operate in underserved communities where social factors may present additional challenges. We adopt a contextual safeguarding approach, which recognises the broader influences that can impact a young person’s safety and wellbeing, both within and outside their home environment.

Reporting a Safeguarding Concern

It is essential that anyone involved with Tigers Basketball CIC knows how to report concerns about the safety and wellbeing of a child, young person, or vulnerable adult. If you suspect that someone is at risk, please report your concern immediately.

How to Report:

• Contact Tigers Basketball Safeguarding Lead: Email us at safeguarding@tigersbasketball.org.
• NSPCC Helpline: Call 0808 800 5000 for expert advice.
• Out of Hours Reporting: If the concern arises outside of normal working hours, you can contact your local police or children’s social care services. Local council safeguarding contact information can usually be found online by searching “safeguarding [your local council name].”
• Immediate Danger: If you believe someone is in immediate danger, call 999.

Our Approach to Working in Partnership

We collaborate with local and national agencies to strengthen our safeguarding practices and ensure the safety of all participants in our programs. Key partners include:

• Local Children’s Safeguarding Partnerships and Designated Officers (LADOs)
• Local Authorities
• National Governing Bodies and Active Partnerships
• Sports, youth, and community sector organisations

By working in partnership, we aim to enhance safeguarding practices, share knowledge and trends, and improve local initiatives for the benefit of young people.

Safeguarding Responsibilities

While we often collaborate with Local Trusted Organisations (LTOs) and other agencies, we are clear about safeguarding responsibilities. All partners are expected to uphold their own safeguarding policies, ensuring a unified approach to the protection of children and young people.

Policies and Procedures

Our safeguarding procedures include:

• Conducting due diligence checks on all partners and collaborators.
• Ensuring staff and volunteers are trained in safeguarding practices.
• Regularly reviewing and updating our safeguarding policies.

For more information on our safeguarding policies or to discuss safeguarding concerns, contact our Safeguarding Lead at safeguarding@tigersbasketball.co.uk.

Tigers Basketball CIC is committed to creating a safe space for every participant, ensuring that basketball is not only a sport but a foundation for health, happiness, and unity.