BHA Safeguarding Guidance Update May 2019

BRITISH HANDBALL ASSOCIATION
GUIDANCE & GOOD PRACTICE
1. Safe recruitment of staff and volunteers (page 1)
2. PVG/DBS disclosures & Risk assessment (page 5)
3. Retention and Storage of records (page 11)
4. Use of Photography /Video (page 12)
5. Parent-Coach relationship (page 14)
6. Transport (page 15)
7. Overnight trips and/ or travel abroad - including hosting (page 17)
8. Managing Challenging Behaviour (page 20)
9. Anti-bullying (page 24)
10. Appropriate Communication (page 27)
11. Physical Contact (page 29)
12. Case Management (page 30)
13. Whistle Blowing (page 32)
14. Code of Ethics and Behaviour (page 35)
Version: 16/05/2019
1. Safe recruitment of staff and volunteers
All reasonable steps must be taken to ensure unsuitable people are prevented from working with young
people in British Handball. Whilst there may be some reservations that volunteers could be put off by
having to go through a recruitment process, it is important to ensure reasonable steps have been taken to
identify unsuitable individuals.
At British Handball the following steps will be carried out:
• Planning
• Advertising
• Application Form and Self Disclosure
• Interview
• References
• PVG/DBS disclosure where appropriate
• Induction
• Monitoring and Appraisal
Planning
Pre-application information is written before the role is advertised and will contain:
• a job description, including roles and responsibilities;

• a person specification (e.g. stating qualifications or experience required);
• a self-disclosure form (for applicants to declare prior convictions or other potentially relevant
information) –see Templates and Forms section.
Advertising
Advertising will reflect the:
• key responsibilities of the role;

• level of experience or qualifications required (e.g. experience of working with young people,
level two Coach qualification required);
• the BHA’s open and positive stance on Safeguarding and equal opportunities;
• need for a satisfactory reference/background checks (e.g. enhanced PVG/DBS disclosure).
Applications
All applicants who will work with young people, whether for paid or voluntary, will complete an
Application form and Self-disclosure form (see Templates and Forms section). If the role meets the
eligibility criteria for ‘regulated activity’, then the form will ask if they are barred from working (including
volunteering) with children.
Interview, references and disclosure
An interview (which does not have to be overly formal in the case of volunteers) will take place for
positions involving working with young people. This also provides an ideal opportunity to view certificates
to confirm qualifications held and photographic identification documents.
British Handball Association – Safeguarding Guidance 2|P a ge

Once a successful candidate is chosen, they will be offered the role subject to satisfactory references and
vetting checks. A minimum of two references will be requested; ideally at least one should be associated
with former work with young people (see Templates and Forms section for Reference request form)
If the role is in ‘regulated activity’ then an enhanced DBS disclosure with barring check must be
completed. See Disclosure and Barring Service Guidance on page 4.
The same emphasis will be placed on ensuring that volunteers are vetted as for paid employees.
Induction
All staff (paid or voluntary) will undergo an induction including:
• Information about the safeguarding policy and procedures;

• That their qualifications are substantiated (if not already completed);
• That they complete a profile to identify training needs/aspirations;
• That they are reminded that they have agreed to abide by all British Handball policies and
procedures and they may face disciplinary action if they are broken;
• the expectations, roles and responsibilities of the job are clarified ; and
• Mentoring offered where appropriate.
Checks are only part of the process to protect young people from possible abuse. Appropriate training will
enable individuals to recognise their responsibilities with regard to their own good practice and the
reporting of suspected poor practice/concerns of possible abuse. See Templates and Forms section for
Induction checklist.
Monitoring and appraisal
At regular intervals (or following a particular event), employees/volunteers working with young people
should be given the opportunity to receive feedback or an appraisal to identify training needs and set new
goals.

Recruitment flowchart:
Vacancy exists
Job Description, person specification & application form produced
Job advertised through British Handball or external agencies
Applicants complete and return application form and self-disclosure form
Short listing of candidates
Application Unclear:
Further clarification required for application
Contact applicant for clarification Rejected at short

listing stage
Interview with Senior

Personnel
Qualifications and ID Applicant sent/emailed

checked letter of rejection
Offer made subject to

satisfactory background
checks
Checks satisfactory – Unsatisfactory result

appointment confirmed
Notify applicant and

Induction reinforcing roles
withdraw offer
and responsibilities. If
possible recruit mentored
by experienced person

2. PVG/DBS Disclosures and Risk Assessment
In December 2012, the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) merged with the Independent Safeguarding
Authority to become the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) – see also
https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/disclosure-andbarring-service. This has led to a number
of changes in terminology such as an 'enhanced CRB’ becoming known as an 'enhanced DBS’. There are
also a number of other changes to process to note. In Scotland this function is administered by Disclosure
Scotland.
This guidance covers:
• Eligibility to request a PVG/DBS

• New definition of ‘regulated activity’
• Barred Lists
• Filtering
• Requirement to include the relevant ‘Workforce’
• Single disclosure being sent to individuals only
• Update Service
Eligibility
The DBS is an executive agency of the Home Office and can help organisations by providing access to
criminal record information to be used as part of a safe recruitment process. (Disclosure Scotland is an
executive agency of the Scottish Government.)
To request information on spent convictions, the position held must be an exempted occupation for the
purpose of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (as amended in 2013) by SI
2013 1198. Under the current DBS guidance this means that positions in sport fall under eligibility code 06
and are:
‘Any position which otherwise involves regularly caring for, training, supervising or being solely in charge
of children’
The Protection of Freedoms Act has also introduced 16 years old as the minimum age at which someone
can apply for a DBS disclosure.
Regulated Activity
Regulated activity is the term used to describe a paid or voluntary role that a person must not do if they
are barred from working or volunteering with children or vulnerable adults.
One of the most significant changes introduced by the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012 is the new
definition of 'regulated activity' which now takes into consideration whether an individual working or
volunteering with children or vulnerable adults is adequately supervised.
The new definition of regulated activity is any role which is:
Of a specified nature e.g. teaching, training, care, supervision, advice, treatment or transport
AND
Frequently (once a week or more) or Intensively (four times or more in a single month) or Overnight
(between 2-6am)
AND
The individual carrying out the activity is unsupervised

When deciding if a person is 'supervised' in their role, it needs to be considered if the supervision is:
▪ Carried out by someone who is in regulated activity

▪ Regular and day to day
▪ Reasonable in all the circumstances for the purpose of protecting children. Factors to be
considered to help
decide if the supervision is reasonable may include the ages and number of children involved as
well as how vulnerable the children are.
For example, it is expected that all coaches of under 18s would be in regulated activity.
It is important to note that it is not possible for two individuals to be classified as supervising each other,
as the supervisor must be in ‘regulated activity’ for the supervision to be valid.
Barred lists
The Bichard Inquiry (see http://www.napta.org.uk/resources/bichard_inquiry.pdf) found responsibility for

deciding if a person is suitable to work with children or vulnerable adults should be managed centrally,
leading to the creation of two barred lists – the Children’s Barred List and the Adult’s Barred List.
An individual might be placed on a barred list because of a conviction or caution, or because they have
harmed or pose a risk of harm to a child or vulnerable adult. These decisions are legally binding and a
barred person must not undertake regulated activity with the group they are barred from
working/volunteering with.
It is now also possible to complete an enhanced DBS check without checking the Barred Lists for a role
which is not
regulated activity (for example because the role is always supervised). The different disclosure options
suitable for people working and volunteering in British Handball and the information they check are:
Enhanced PVG/DBS Regulated activity Regulated activity Regulated activity with

check with children with adults at risk children and adults at
risk
Police national Police national Police national Police national
computer computer computer computer
Local police records Local police records Local police records Local police records
Children’s barred list Adult’s barred list Children’s barred list
Adult’s barred list
The Police National Computer stores information on cautions, reprimands, warnings and convictions.
Subject to a relevancy test, the Police may also release information which is considered appropriate for
disclosure such as details of a serious allegation or previous charges.
Please note the following legal requirements:
▪ A person who is barred from working with children or vulnerable adults will be breaking the law
if they work or volunteer, or try to work or volunteer with those groups.
▪ An organisation which knowingly employs someone who is barred to work with those groups
will also be breaking the law.
▪ Where a member of staff or a volunteer has been dismissed by British Handball because they
have harmed a child or vulnerable adult, or would have done so if they had not left, then the
BHA must complete a referral to the PVG/DBS.

If you need any advice on the Barred Lists or PVG/DBS referrals, please get in touch with British Handball
Lead Safeguarding Officer.
Filtering
Following a judgment from the Court of Appeal, the DBS will now be removing certain specified old and
minor information from DBS checks in a process known as ‘filtering’. If a person has more than one
conviction or caution, then all details will always be included and filtering will also not remove
information relating to sexual, violent or safeguarding offences. More information on filtering is available
on www.gov.uk/government/publications/dbs-filtering-guidance
To reflect this change in the law BHA self-disclosure forms will ask: Do you have any convictions,
cautions, reprimands or final warnings which would not be filtered in line with current guidance? If you
are not certain again please refer to www.gov.uk/government/publications/dbs-filtering-guidance
Workforce
It is now mandatory to include the relevant ‘workforce’ when applying for a DBS check. This change is to
give the police the information they need for their relevancy test and is used if they join the Update
Service.
The relevant workforces are:
• Child Workforce
• Adult Workforce
• Child and Adult Workforce
• Other Workforce (this should not apply in British Handball as it is intended for positions that
do not involve working/volunteering with children or adults e.g. security guard)
DBS applications through the online application system used by British Handball have the default settings
of enhanced with Children’s Barred List for roles in the Child Workforce. DBS Verifiers can alter these
settings if required.
Single DBS Disclosures
Since the 17th June 2013, organisations are no longer automatically sent copies of completed DBS
disclosures. This means that through the online system, British Handball will be notified when a disclosure
is issued and whether it is clear of information or not. When there is content on the disclosure, British
Handball will request the original disclosure to make a risk assessment on the information and decide if
the individual is suitable to take up their role. The individual will be requested to supply their disclosure
and advised that they may be temporarily suspended if they fail to send their disclosure, under normal
circumstances, within two weeks.
DBS Update Service
The DBS ‘Update Service’ is a facility where an individual can register (within 14 days of their disclosure
being issued) so that employers can go online, with the individual's consent, to carry out a free and
instant check to find out if the information released on the DBS certificate is still current and up-to-date.
The service is free to volunteers but has an annual subscription cost of £13 for employees.
The intention with this is to help portability of a DBS check to other roles, but please note these roles
must be within the same workforce (e.g. children’s) and require the same level of check (e.g. enhanced).

British Handball will not require subscription to this update service at this time, although any person who
is required to undergo a DBS check through the BHA can choose to register. The BHA will require
employees to sign a self-declaration form as an alternative method of updating.
Accessing DBS checks
More information on DBS checks is available on the DBS website: www.gov.uk/dbs and from the Sport &
Recreation Alliance: www.sportandrecreation.org.uk
Risk Assessment
In the event that any relevant pre-employment checks come back with any information on previous
offences/convictions or areas of concern, the BHA will review the information in order to determine the
correct course of action and to make a defensible decision on the recruitment process using the
CPSU published guidelines on Risk Assessment in recruitment (summary flowchart below
(copyright CPSU).
The Risk Assessment will also take into account the role that the applicant will be fulfilling, and an
assessment of the risks associated to the job.
The PVG scheme
The Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) membership scheme is managed and delivered by Disclosure
Scotland. It helps makes sure people whose behaviour makes them unsuitable to work with children
and/or protected adults, can't do 'regulated work' with these vulnerable groups.
How the scheme works
When someone applies to join the PVG Scheme Disclosure Scotland carries out criminal record checks and
shares the results with individuals and organisations.
The application process involves gathering criminal record and other relevant information. This can be
shared with the employer who is providing regulated work, unless the person applies to have a conviction
removed from their PVG Scheme record.
If the information shows the applicant might be unsuitable for regulated work, they'll be referred for
further investigation as part of the 'consideration process'.
Once someone is a PVG scheme member
Disclosure Scotland keeps checking their suitability to continue working with children or protected adults.
If they find new information which means someone might have become unsuitable to work with children
or protected adults, they'll tell their employer.
'Harmful behaviour' by PVG scheme members
If the courts, police, regulatory bodies or previous employers provide information to Disclosure Scotland
which suggests someone may be unsuitable for regulated work, this will trigger a consideration for listing.

Barred from regulated work
If Disclosure Scotland decides that someone's unsuitable to do regulated work with vulnerable groups,
they'll bar them from working with children and/or protected adults, and inform their current employers.
They'll also remove them from the PVG Scheme and tell any other employers listed on their record that
they have been barred.
How long does it last?
A PVG Scheme member's paper certificate shows the information available on the day it was created.
Membership of the scheme lasts forever though, and scheme members are continuously checked, unless
they decide to leave the scheme.

Dealing with Disclosures at the Point of a Job Offer
Job offer made, subject to references
BHA receives Disclosure
Disclosure confirms information already Disclosure reveals new and relevant

provided by applicant or at interview information about a criminal record
Confirm appointment Discuss with applicant
Applicant confirms information is correct Applicant disputes the information on the

Disclosure
New information is too New information New information New information

serious to consider does not cause does not cause causes concern
applicant further concern concern
Withdraw provisional Put offer on hold to

offer of employment Confirm appointment allow information to
be checked
The information is correct

The information is
not correct; the
The new information is applicant has given
discussed with the applicant the correct
information
The BHA is not happy with the The BHA is happy with the
explanation and assurances given explanation and assurances given
Withdrawal of provisional offer of Confirmation of offer

employment
British Handball Association – Safeguarding Guidance 10 | P a g e

3. Retention and Storage of records
The BHA will refer to:
• the CPSU Guidance document on the retention and storage of Child Protection records, last
updated November 2012; and
https://thecpsu.org.uk/resource-library/2013/guidance-of-child-protection-records-retention-
andstorage/
• Guidance contained within Data Protection Act 1998: Guidance to Social Services (2000) which
states that:
“Where no legal requirement to retain information beyond the closure of the record exists, the authority
will need to establish its own retention periods. Normally personal information should not be held for
longer than 6 years after the subject’s last contact with the authority. Exceptions to the 6 year period will
occur when records:
• Need to be retained because the information in them is relevant to legal action that has been
started.
• Are required to be kept longer by law
• Are archived for historical purposes (e.g. where the organisation was party to legal
proceedings or involved in proceedings brought by a local authority). Where there are legal
proceedings it is best to seek legal advice about the retention period of your records.
• Consist of a sample of records maintained for the purposes of research.
• Relate to individuals and providers of services who have, or whose staff, have been judged
unsatisfactory.
• Are held in order to provide, for the subject, aspects of his/her personal history (e.g. where the
child might seek access to the file at a later date and the information would not be available
elsewhere).”
When records are kept for more than the 6-year period, files will be clearly marked and the reasons for
the extension period clearly identified.
Note: Some records are subject to statutory requirements, i.e. there is a defined retention period.
Examples include: records relating to children who have been „looked after‟ by the local authority or
adopted, records relating to registered foster carers, records in children’s homes, residential homes and
registered nursing homes. Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Certificates (formerly Criminal Records
Bureau disclosure certificates) will not be stored for more than 6 months unless specific consent has been
given to store them for longer.
Whilst the disclosure certificate will normally be destroyed after 6 months, it is permissible to keep a
record of the date the check was completed, the reference number of the disclosure certificate and the
decision made as to whether the person was employed.

4. Use of photography and video
British Handball is committed to providing a safe environment for children to participate in.
Essential to this commitment is to ensure that all necessary steps are taken to prevent inappropriate
images being taken or innocent images being adapted for inappropriate use.
Please note the term ‘images’ refers to photographs and videos captured by any device. By being aware
of the potential risks, and taking appropriate steps, the potential for misuse of images can be reduced.
The key principles are:
• The interests and welfare of children taking part in Handball are paramount;
• Parents/guardians and children have a right to decide if their images are to be taken, and how
those images may be used;
• Parents/guardians and children should consent for images to be taken and used;
• Images should convey the best principles and aspects of Handball, such as fairness and fun;
• Care should be taken to ensure that images are appropriate and not open to obvious
misinterpretation or misuse;
• Excessive personal information accompanying images could place a child at risk.
• Images should never be taken in changing rooms;
• Images should only be taken by authorised persons, as agreed in the protocol for a particular
event;
• Unsupervised access to children or one to one photo sessions should not be approved.
• All images of children should be securely stored;
• In the case of images used on websites, particular care must be taken to ensure that no
identifying details facilitate contact with a child by a potential abuser.
By adopting these points the BHA aims to put in place the best possible practice to protect children
wherever and whenever images are taken and stored.
These guidelines focus on the following key areas:
• The use of photographic and recording equipment at British Handball events;

• The publishing of images of young people and vulnerable adults;
• The use of video equipment as a coaching aid.
Taking images at British Handball Events
Whilst British Handball does not want to prevent family, friends or other spectators being able to take
images at British Handball events for legitimate reasons, there is evidence that certain individuals will visit
sporting events to take inappropriate images of children. Anyone involved in any British Handball activity
will inform children and parents if a photographer will be in attendance at a session/event and ensure
they consent to both the taking and publication of films or photographs which feature and clearly identify
individuals (e.g. close ups, small group and team photos). Any concerns should be reported to British
Handball.
At all sessions/events organised by British Handball they will:
• Display signs informing people how to register and informing them they must adhere to
guidelines;
• Have the photography guidelines available for viewing;

• Obtain consent for images to be taken from young people and parents/guardians;
• Inform players and their parents/guardians that a photographer will be in attendance at an
event and ensure they consent to both the taking and publication of films or photographs;
• Ensure that a system is introduced to ensure that press photographers are made aware of
those children without consent for images to be taken;
• Provide a clear brief about what is considered appropriate in terms of content and behaviour;
• Do not allow unsupervised access to players or one to one photo sessions at events;
• Do not approve/allow photo sessions outside the events or at a player’s home.
British Handball uses a registration scheme for professional, amateur, student or video operators wishing
to take images of children at a session or event. The following wording will be displayed on signs at British
Handball sessions/events:
In line with the recommendations in the British Handball Safeguarding Policy, British Handball requests
that anyone wishing to engage in any video, zoom or close range photography should register their details
before carrying out any such photography.
If parents have any particular concerns about their child being photographed or filmed they should notify
the British Handball session/event organiser.
British Handball reserves the right to decline entry to any person unable to meet or abide by the
conditions. If you are concerned about any photography taking place at this event, please contact British
Handball.
Publishing Images guidance:
• Ensure that when obtaining permission from the child and their parents/guardians to record
images, they are aware of how the images may be used;
• NEVER publish personal details (email address, telephone number, address etc) of a child with
their photograph;
• Only use images of players in suitable British Handball clothing;
• Try to focus on the activity rather than a particular child and where possible use images that
represent all those involved in British Handball. This might include:
- Boys and girls
- Ethnic minority communities
• Ensure that images reflect positive aspects of children’s involvement in British Handball
• (enjoyment/competition etc);
• If the young people/their parents request an image is removed from a website or not used in
any future publications, this request must be respected.
Videoing as a Coaching Aid
Video can be a legitimate coaching aid, however if it is used the BHA will, make sure that children and
their parents/guardians have given written consent, and understand the purpose of the video.
The footage will be stored safely and forms part of the consent section on the registration form.
Use of Photographic and Recorded Images When Teams are Abroad
When age group teams play in other countries, there may not be restrictions on photography/filming.
Many countries allow widespread use of cameras / video equipment in Handball halls. Parents should be
made aware of this possibility and decide whether they are content for their child to play in these
circumstances.

5. Parent-Coach relationship.
Parents undoubtedly play a vital role for most young people’s involvement and enjoyment in Handball.
Unfortunately issues will arise between some parents and coaches, and many coaches will encounter a
conflict at some point in their coaching career. Coaches will need to be able to deal effectively with any
problems to ensure the coach-parent relationship remains positive.
A key aspect in effectively dealing with parents is good communication. At the start of the season, a
Parent Letter and/or Parent Meeting will outline British Handball’s coaching philosophy, the goals and
rules for the team, codes of conduct for players and parents, practice and game schedule information,
etc. Parents should be reminded that a positive, encouraging and noncritical approach will increase their
child’s enjoyment in handball.
The benefits of positive reinforcement as a coaching technique are well known. Positive, constructive
feedback in a helpful manner is extremely important in developing young players and improving their
confidence. Coaches will also ensure that positive parental involvement takes place. Parents will naturally
be ambitious for their child and so may need help to understand where their child fits into the team. This
creates one of the most common problems: dealing with parental expectations. Dealing effectively with
any issues can stop small problems from escalating and a parent becoming disgruntled. If a conflict does
arise, BHA coaches will take the matter seriously by:
• Not discussing any problem at a session or an event.

• The problem. Considering whether a face to face meeting is the best course of action.
• Listening to the parent.
• Clarifying the issue.
• Reflecting.
• Resolving the matter. Taking any necessary actions including updating the parent.
• Referring to the British Handball complaints procedure where the matter cannot be resolved.
• Taking notes of relevant events and meeting for reference.

6. Transport
British Handball activity involves travelling to training in unfamiliar or overseas facilities. Trips may involve
long distances, possible travel abroad and overnight stays. Even the most straightforward of trips require
some level of planning and the following outlines the issues that BHA organisers will consider when
travelling with children.
Parents will be made aware that their child will be required to travel to games, training or other events
either using public transport or private vehicles.
Where the BHA has arranged transport, then the following will be communicated:
• Players: made aware of the travel plans, venue and time for collection, time of return and any
costs. Children must know what sports kit they need to bring with them as well as any items
they must/must not bring with them such as packed lunch or a fizzy drink. Children will also be
given a clear understanding of what standard of behaviour is expected of them.
• Parents: will be made aware of the above and must have completed a consent form detailing
any medical issues that the coaches should be aware of. Parents will also be given the name
and contact details of an adult on the trip which could be used in the event of an emergency.
• Other coaches / volunteers: will be made aware of what their responsibilities are in advance
of the trip.
Where British Handball is involved in organising the lifts they will ensure that the driver is appropriately
licenced and insured, as well as the vehicle suitable and adequately maintained.
Transporting guidelines
The following guidelines will be adopted for transporting children:
• British Handball will ensure that they have the necessary consent from parents for
transporting young people to training or games.
• At least one DBS/PVG checked adult will be present to chaperone any individual or group
unless otherwise agreed with the relevant parent or guardian.
• Parents will be informed of the person who will be transporting their child, the reasons why
and how long the journey will take.
• A person other than the planned driver will talk to the child about transport arrangements to
check they are comfortable about the plans.
• The driver will have a point of contact with the child’s family and mobile phone should they
break down.
• British Handball will ensure that children are aware of their rights and they have someone to
turn to or report any concerns they may have. If a culture of safety is created within British
Handball then the child is more likely to talk to another person if they are feeling
uncomfortable about a situation.
• Children must use an appropriate child restraint or seatbelt when travelling in a vehicle; older
children should use an adult seatbelt.
• If the activity involves children under 14 the driver will be responsible for making sure that
these children use their seatbelts.
• Passengers on minibuses and buses are required to wear seat belts where fitted.
Late collection

Late collections can present coaches with a difficult situation and British Handball has developed
guidelines for parents outlining their responsibility and the consequences of late collections. British
Handball will request parental contact details and details of an alternative contact, as well as providing a
contact number for parents to use during an activity to inform the local organiser of emergencies and
possible late collections.
The BHA will provide a timetable of activities at the beginning of a season and notify parents/carers of any
changes to this timetable in writing as soon as possible.
Parents will be informed it is not the responsibility of the BHA to transport young people, in the event of
them being delayed.
All staff/volunteers will be informed they should:
• attempt to contact the parent in the event of late collection;

• attempt to get in touch with the alternative contact;
• wait with the young person or vulnerable adult at the sport facility with other staff/volunteers
or parents if possible;
• remind parents of the policy relating to late collection.
Staff/volunteers will not:
• take the young person home or to any other location;

• ask the young person to wait in a vehicle or sport facility with them alone;
• send the young person home with another person without parental permission;
• leave the young person on their own.
Any decision should not be left to BHA official; at least two should be involved in deciding the best course
of action.

7. Overnight trips and/or travel abroad (including hosting)
The nature of the activity of some British Handball representative teams mean that overnight trips
including travel abroad for training camps and competitions are likely to feature. The BHA will also host
tournaments and competitions in Great Britain that will involve young athletes from overseas. Below is
the safety checklist that the BHA will use for these purposes.
Purpose of the trip

□ Competition
□ Training
□ Social
□ Other (specify)
□ Combination, please state:______________________________________________________________
Planning
□ When
□ Where
□ Who (staff/volunteers/participants)
□ Risk assessment of activity
Communication with parents

□ Destination, sport and accommodation details (address / telephone)
□ Name/number of lead club/school link or team manager
□ Drop off/pick up time
□ Transport arrangements
□ Competition details
□ Kit and equipment list
□ Emergency procedures, home contact
□ Consent form (including where a child needs to share a room with another adult due to practical
considerations)
□ Information re medical conditions (including allergies) or impairments, and medication
□ Code of conduct
□ Safeguarding arrangements (reporting concerns, supervision etc…)
□ Process for parent contacting coach or young person
□ Process for young person contacting parent
Transport
□ Drop off/pick up time
□ Journey times and stopping point
□ Supervision
□ Suitability and accessibility
□ Drivers checked
□ Insurance
Accommodation
□ Type (hotel, hostel, hosting, camping etc…)
□ Pre-event visit and risk assessment made
□ Catering, special diets, food allergies
□ Suitability for group, including accessibility
□ Room lists
□ Supervising adults’ sleeping arrangements
Preparing Athletes
□ Local culture, language
□ Expectations on dress and behaviour
□ Food and drink
□ Currency
□ Telephones
□ Maps of area
□ Safe sport away information
Supervision and staffing

□ Ratio of staff to athlete
□ At least one adult of same sex present during overnight stays
□ Cover for all in-sport and free time periods
□ Specialist carers
□ Clear responsibilities
Documentation
□ Travel tickets
□ Passports, visas
□ Check non EU national
□ Accommodation and travel booking document
Insurance
□ Liability
□ Accident
□ Medical
Hosting or being hosted

□ Hosts vetted
□ Hosts aware of any special requirements
□ Language
□ Transport arrangements
□ Telephone contact
□ Local map information
Emergency procedures
□ First aid
□ Specific medical information available
□ Access to and administration of medication
□ Information on local emergency medical services, hospitals etc…
□ EHIC European Health Insurance Card (replacement for E111) form completed (EU visits). Further
information: www.nhs.uk/Healthcareabroad
□ Details of British embassy/consulate
Costs and cash

□ For travel
□ Payment schedule – deposit, staged payment
□ Extra meals, refreshments
□ Spending money
□ Security
Arrival
□ Check rooms, meal times, phones, valuables
□ Check sporting venue
□ Collect in money, valuables
□ Information on medications
□ Arrange group meeting
□ Confirm procedures with staff
□ Rules (e.g. curfews)

8. Managing Challenging Behaviour
Staff/volunteers who deliver sports activities to children may, on occasions, be required to deal with a
child’s challenging behaviour. These guidelines promote good practice and encourage a proactive
response to supporting children to manage their own behaviour. They suggest some strategies and
sanctions which can be used and also identify unacceptable sanctions or interventions which must never
be used by staff or volunteers.
These guidelines are based on the following principles:
• The welfare of the child is the paramount consideration.

• All those involved in activities (including children, coaches/volunteers and parents/carers)
should be provided with clear guidelines about required standards of conduct, and the
organisations process for responding to behaviour that is deemed unacceptable.
• Children must never be subject to any treatment that is harmful, abusive, humiliating or
degrading.
• Some children exhibit challenging behaviour as a result of specific circumstances, e.g. a
medical or psychological condition, and coaches may therefore require specific or additional
guidance. These and any other specific needs the child may have should be discussed with
parents/carers and the child in planning for the activity, to ensure that an appropriate
approach is agreed and, where necessary, additional support provided e.g. from external
agencies, Children’s Social Care services.
• Sport can make a significant contribution to improving the life experience and outcomes for all
children and young people1. Every child should be supported to participate and, only in
exceptional circumstances where the safety of a child or of other children cannot be
maintained, should a child be excluded from club activities.
Planning Activities
Good coaching practice requires planning sessions around the group as a whole but also involves taking
into consideration the needs of each individual athlete within that group. As part of session planning, BHA
coaches will consider whether any members of the group have presented in the past or are likely to
present any difficulties in relation to the tasks involved, the other participants or the environment.
Where staff/volunteers identify potential risks, strategies to manage those risks will be agreed in advance
of the session, event or activity. The planning will also identify the appropriate number of adults required
to safely manage and support the session.
When children are identified as having additional needs or behaviours that are likely to require additional
supervision, specialist expertise or support, this will be discussed with parents/carers and where
appropriate young people. British Handball will seek to work in partnership with parents/carers, and
where necessary external agencies, to ensure that a child or young person can be supported to participate
safely.
Agreeing Acceptable and Unacceptable Behaviours
Staff, volunteers, children, young people and parents/carers may be involved in developing an agreed
statement of what constitutes acceptable and unacceptable behaviour (code of conduct) and the range of
sanctions which may be applied in response to unacceptable behaviour. This can be done at the start of
the season, in advance of a trip away from home or as part of a welcome session at a residential camp.
1 Go to www.everychildmatters.gov.uk for information on the government’s strategy for achieving improved outcomes for children.
Managing Challenging Behaviour
In responding to challenging behaviour the response will aim to be proportionate to the actions, be
imposed as soon as is practicable and be fully explained to the child and their parents/carers. In dealing
with children who display negative or challenging behaviours, staff and volunteers may consider the
following options:
• Time out - from the activity, group or individual work.

• Reparation - the act or process of making amends.
• Restitution - the act of giving something back.
• Behavioural reinforcement - rewards for good behaviour, consequences for negative
behaviour.
• De-escalation of the situation - talking through with the child.
• Increased supervision by staff/volunteers.
• Use of individual ‘contracts’ or agreements for their future or continued participation.
• Sanctions or consequences e.g. missing an outing.
• Seeking additional/specialist support through working in partnership with other agencies to
ensure a child’s needs are met appropriately e.g. referral for support to Children’s Social
Care, discussion with the child’s key worker if they have one, speaking to the child’s school
about management strategies (all require parental consent unless the child is felt to be ‘at
risk’ or ‘in need of protection’).
• Temporary or permanent exclusion
The following are never permitted as a means of managing a child’s behaviour:
• Physical punishment or the threat of such.

• Refusal to speak to or interact with the child.
• Being deprived of food, water, access to changing facilities or toilets or other essential
facilities.
• Verbal intimidation, ridicule or humiliation.
Staff and volunteers will review the needs of any child for whom sanctions are frequently necessary.
This review will involve the child, parents/carers and in some cases others involved in supporting or
providing services for the child and his/her family, to ensure an informed decision is made about the
child’s future or continued participation. As a last resort, if a child continues to present a high level of risk
or danger to him or herself, or others, he or she may have to be suspended or barred from the relevant
squad.
Physical Intervention
The use of physical intervention will always be avoided unless it is absolutely necessary to prevent a child
injuring themselves or others, or causing serious damage to property. All forms of physical intervention
form part of a broader approach to the management of challenging behaviour.
Physical contact to prevent something happening should always be the result of conscious decision
making and not a reaction. Studies have shown that, where this is the case, children and young people
understand and accept the reasons for the intervention.
The following must always be considered:

• Contact should be avoided with buttocks, genitals and breasts. Staff/volunteers should never
behave in a way which could be interpreted as sexual.
• Any form of physical intervention should achieve an outcome that is in the best interests of the
child whose behaviour is of immediate concern.
• Staff/ volunteers should consider the circumstances, the risks associated with employing
physical intervention compared with the risks of not employing physical intervention.
• All forms of physical intervention should be proportionate to the behaviour of the young
person and the nature of harm/damage they might cause –i.e. the minimum force needed to
avert injury to a person or serious damage to property - applied for the shortest period of
time.
• Staff/volunteers should never employ physical interventions which are deemed to present an
unreasonable risk to children or staff/volunteers.
• Staff/volunteers shall never use physical intervention as a form of punishment.
• Physical intervention should not involve inflicting pain.
• Where children are identified as having additional needs or behaviours that are likely to
require physical intervention this should be discussed with parents/carers and where
necessary the club will seek advice from or to work in partnership with external agencies (e.g.
Children’s Social Care) to ensure that a child or young person can be supported to participate
safely. This may include asking for the provision of a suitably trained support worker/volunteer
or accessing staff/volunteer training in physical intervention.
Any physical intervention used must be recorded as soon as possible after the incident by the
staff/volunteers involved using the Incident Report Form and passed to the BHA Lead Safeguarding Officer
as soon as possible.
Views of the child
It is clear from the accounts of children and young people that physical intervention provokes strong
feelings. Children may be left physically or emotionally hurt. Even a child who hasn’t directly been
involved in the situation may be fearful that it will happen to them in future or have been upset by seeing
what has happened to others.
A timely debrief for staff/volunteers, the child and parents will always take place following an incident
where physical intervention has been used. This will include ensuring that the physical and emotional
well-being of those involved has been addressed and ongoing support offered where necessary.
Staff/volunteers, children and parents will be given an opportunity to talk about what happened in a calm
and safe environment.
There will also be a discussion with the child and parents about the child’s needs and continued safe
participation in the group or activity.
Discipline and Sanctions
When discipline is used it should be with the clear intention of teaching or reinforcing appropriate
behaviour. It must not be used impulsively, to gain power, or to embarrass or humiliate a young person.
Discipline can be used only to:
• develop a sense of responsibility for behaviour

• develop respect for others and their property
• reinforce the rules or values of Handball
• reinforce positive behaviour or attitudes
• reinforce awareness of health and safety aspects of the activity.

The use of sanctions is an important element in the maintenance of discipline. The age and
developmental stage of the child will be taken into consideration when using sanctions. Sanctions should
be fair and consistent and in the case of persistent offence, should be progressively applied. They will
never be used to retaliate or to make a coach feel better. The following steps are suggested and should
always be used in conjunction with the Code of Ethics and Conduct:
• rules should be stated clearly and agreed

• a warning should be given if a rule is broken
• a sanction (for example, removal from the activity for a short time) should be applied if a rule
is broken for a second time.
• if a rule is broken for the third time the child should be spoken to, and if necessary, the
parents/guardians may be involved
• sanctions should not be applied if a coach is not comfortable with them. If an appropriate
action cannot be devised right away, the child should be told that the matter will be dealt with
later, at a specified time and as soon as possible
• a child should not be sanctioned for making mistakes in his or her game
• physical activity (e.g. running laps or doing push-ups) should not be used as a sanction. To do
so only causes a child to resent physical activity, something that s/he should learn to enjoy
throughout life
• sanctions should be used sparingly. Constant sanctioning and criticism can cause a child to turn
away from sport
• once sanctions have been imposed, it is important to make the young person feel s/he is a
valued member of the group again
• where relevant, some sanctions may need to be recorded and parents informed.

9. Anti-bullying
Every child has the right to participate in British Handball free from the fear of bullying. Bullying may be
seen as deliberately hurtful behaviour, usually repeated over a period of time, where it is difficult for
those bullied to defend themselves.
Bullying has the potential to cause permanent harm (physical, emotional or psychological). The BHA takes
steps to prevent bullying behaviour wherever possible and respond to incidents when they occur. A
preventative approach means that sport is playing its part to create an environment and society in which
people treat each other with respect.
Bullying can take the form of:
• verbal: name calling, teasing, threatening, spreading rumours, sarcasm, racist taunts,
homophobic bullying, graffiti and gestures;
• physical: hitting, kicking, punching, spitting, taking/breaking belongings.
• emotional: ignoring, hurtful emails/text messages, excluding from activities, tormenting,
ridiculing, humiliating.
Although anyone can be the target of bullying, victims are typically shy, sensitive and perhaps anxious or
insecure. Sometimes they are singled out for physical reasons – being overweight, physically small, having
a disability or belonging to a different race, faith or culture. Bullies come from all walks of life; they bully
for a variety of different reasons and may even have been bullied or abused themselves. Typically, bullies
can have low self-esteem, be excitable, aggressive or jealous. Crucially, they have learned how to gain
power over others.
Identifying bullying
The competitive nature of sport can make it an ideal environment for the bully. The bully in handball can
be:
• a parent who pushes too hard;

• a coach who adopts a ‘win-at-all costs’ philosophy;
• a player who intimidates;
• an official who places unfair pressure on a person;
• a spectator who shouts abuse.
The damage inflicted by bullying can frequently be underestimated. It can cause considerable distress to
children, young people and vulnerable adults, to the extent that it affects their health and development
or, at the extreme, causes them significant harm including self-harm or in extreme cases, suicide.
There are a number of signs that may indicate a person is being bullied:
• sudden reluctance to go to activities such as training or games that they used to enjoy or a
drop off in performance/attendance;
• regularly feeling ill before training or games
• physical signs such as stomach-aches, headaches, difficulty in sleeping, bedwetting, scratching
and bruising, coming home with damaged equipment or clothes
• behavioural changes such as becoming withdrawn, anxious, clingy, depressed, tearful,
aggressive, unreasonable;
• start bullying others; a shortage of money or frequent loss of possessions.

• In more extreme cases, they might stop eating, start stammering, cry themselves to sleep,
have nightmares, run away or threaten/attempt suicide.
These signs may indicate other problems or be a reaction to other events in a child or young person’s life
but the possibility of bullying should be considered.
Homophobic bullying
Lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) people may face homophobic bullying. Homophobia is often driven by a
lack of understanding which only serves to strengthen stereotypes and can lead to actions that cause LGB
people to feel excluded, isolated or undervalued.
Adults bullying children or young people
Serious cases for example if the bullying included physical abuse or racist name calling, may be considered
abuse and so may be referred to the Police or Children’s Social Care.
Support for the Victim and the bully
The bully will need support to help them realise why their behaviour is wrong and assistance to change
their behaviour. British Handball will involve the bully’s parents and the young person’s school or club (if
appropriate) in ensuring their behaviour is improving and any problems which may have caused them to
bully are being addressed.
The victim’s parents will be involved and supported to ensure they feel able to remain in the squad.
Action to Help the Victim and Prevent Bullying
• take all signs of bullying very seriously;

• encourage all children to speak and share their concerns. Help the victim to speak out and tell
the person in charge/someone in authority. Create an open environment;
• investigate all allegations and take action to ensure the victim is safe. Speak with the victim
and the bully(ies) separately;
• reassure the victim that you can be trusted and will help them, although you cannot promise
to tell no one else (if a young person, you should inform the bully(ies) parents;
• keep records of what is said (what happened, by whom, when);
• report any concerns to the British Handball Safeguarding Lead.
Action towards the Bully(ies):
• talk with the bully(ies), explain the situation, and try to get the bully(ies) to understand the
consequences of their behaviour. Seek an apology to the victim(s);
• if the bully is a young person, inform the bully(ies) parents;
• insist on the return of borrowed items and that the bully(ies) compensate the victim;
• impose sanctions as necessary;
• encourage and support the bully(ies) to change behaviour;
• hold meetings with the families to report on progress;
• inform all organisation members of action taken;
• keep a written record of action taken.

Useful websites:
www.bullying.co.uk
www.beatbullying.org

10. Appropriate communication
Below are good practice guidelines that British Handball will follow and encourage for communication
with children and young people.
Emails
Emails can provide an excellent opportunity to quickly disseminate information to a group of people.
However there are some risks and good practice which includes:
• Language that is appropriate and professional;

• Emails being sent by the same person, i.e. programme manager or head coach;
• Emails must be about legitimate British Handball information and avoid over-familiarity
• Ideally emails will be sent to groups rather than individual children. If communication needs
to be sent to an individual child, another adult such as their parent could be copied into the
message;
• For group emails, consideration will be made as to if it is appropriate to allow others access
to all the recipient's email addresses by using the ‘to’ field or if the ‘blind carbon copy’ (bcc)
function should be used;
• Giving the option to opt out of receiving further emails;
• For under 16’s, parental consent must be gained before collecting email addresses and
parents can also be copied into the email. Parents must be able to include their own email
address instead of their child’s;
• For young people aged 16-18, their permission will be gained to email them and parents will
be made aware that the British Handball will be emailing their child and the reasons for this;
• If British Handball receives any emails of concern from a young person, the Safeguarding
policy will be followed;
• If a British Handball official leaves their position, they will delete any British Handball email
addresses from their computer;
• Email addresses are not to be passed on or used for other purposes without permission.
Text messaging
The use of text messaging increases the vulnerability of both the young person and the person sending
the message –typically an adult (e.g. the coach or manager). However it one of the most direct forms of
communication with young people so British Handball may decide to use text messaging.
The BHA will reduce the risks, including:
• It will be a British Handball decision to use text messaging, rather than a decision taken in
isolation by one person;
• The content will relate solely to handball and reflect the professional relationship between
coach and athlete;
• Text messages will be sent at appropriate times of the day (i.e. not overnight) and avoid
language that is overly familiar or could be misinterpreted;
• British Handball officials with access to the young people’s personal contact details will be
kept to a practical minimum;
• British Handball officials may not allow anyone to use their phone to text a young person and
they will not pass on young people’s mobile phones numbers to other people;• Consent must
be obtained from young people prior to sending them text messages. For under 16’s,
parental consent must also be obtained and parents given the option of also being sent the
text message;

• For young people aged 16-18, their permission will be obtained before texting them and their
parent’s made aware;
• British Handball will ensure that people know how to sensitively deal with concerns if they
receive messages from a young person that could be considered inappropriate or concerning;
• Young people will be given the opportunity to request not to receive further messages.
Websites/social networking
The internet provides an excellent opportunity to reach a wide audience at little cost. British Handball
uses the internet to publicise themselves and keep in contact with those interested in the sport. However
British Handball is mindful in how they present themselves online and the risks the internet can pose to
young people if not used appropriately.
The BHA will use the following good practice guidelines:
• The website/profile should present a professional image, ensuring all language and content is
appropriate;
• British Handball will plan how they will manage their website/social networking profile.
• The website/profile should be regularly monitored and links reviewed regularly to ensure
they are appropriate and working;
• Procedures and contact details for reporting any problems/concerns should be easy to
locate;
• Contact details for the British Handball Lead Safeguarding Officer is available and links
available to help organisations such as ChildLine;
• If British Handball decides to publish team/player profiles of under 18’s, their and their
parent’s permission should be sought first;
• Permission to publish photos/videos of young people should be gained from them and their
parents and follow photography guidelines in the Safeguarding Policy;
• British Handball will avoid publishing excessive personal information of under 18’s i.e. never
include email address, home address, school attended etc;
• If there is a minimum age on the social networking site, British Handball will not target young
people under this age to use it;
• Parents should be encouraged to view the website/profile as well as young people;
• If British Handball becomes aware of problems such as cyber bullying or a young person
placing themselves at risk with the information they share on the internet, they will follow
the set procedures for concerns or contact a help organisation for advice;
• British Handball employees or officials should think carefully about their personal online
profiles and should not be linking them to young people’s pages. Any bullying and/or abuse
online will be dealt with in the same manner as offline bullying and/or abuse.

11. Physical Contact
It is important that coaches /managers and BHA employees understand these guidelines to protect their
own position and the overall reputation of British Handball. If physical contact is required, the
coach/manager should explain the nature and reason for the contact and unless the situation is an
emergency, ask the child’s permission. Contact should never involve touching any part of the body that
could be considered sexual or could cause embarrassment or distress. Where possible, techniques can be
demonstrated with another member of coaching staff.
Physical contact will be intended to meet the child’s needs and not the coaches. This could include:
• demonstrating technique/developing skill;

• to treat an injury;
• to try to prevent injury, accident or violence from occurring.
Physical punishment
It is unlawful for those working with children to administer any form of physical punishment (e.g.
slapping, hitting). However, on some occasions it may be necessary to physically intervene to prevent a
child from:
• harming themselves;
• harming another;
• putting themselves or others at risk;
• damaging property.
Responding to distress and success
Physical contact may occur in response to distress or success. There is no intention to prevent an adult
from giving comfort to an upset child or celebrating a success, but contact should be initiated by the child
and for their benefit, not the adults. A young person or coach/manager may also want to mark a success
or achievement with a hug or other gesture. Adults must use their discretion in such cases to ensure that
(and what is seen by others present) is normal and natural does not become unnecessary and unjustified
contact, particularly with the same young person over a period of time. It should also be considered that
what an adult may feel appropriate may not be shared by a young person.
Physical contact for medical treatment
There is no intention to prevent medical treatment which is carried out by appropriately trained or
qualified practitioners. Guidelines on this include:
• Consent is obtained from parents so that staff may act in emergency situations to
administer/obtain medical treatment;
• All treatment procedures are explained to the child and verbal consent is gained before they
are carried out.
• A child will not be on his/her own in a treatment room with the door closed. It is strongly
recommended that all treatment procedures should be ‘open’ i.e. the door remains open,
parents are invited to observe treatment procedures. Where strict medical confidentiality is to
be observed then the parents of the child should be informed of the procedures involved;
• Medical confidentiality and patient dignity must be maintained at all times.
In the case of a young person with a disability, specific support or assistance may be required.

12. British Handball Safeguarding Case Management Group (CMG)
A Case Management Group (CMG) comprises a minimum of three people, with the exact membership
determined by the nature of the case and availability of members. A CMG will be drawn from:
• Lead Safeguarding Officer

• Deputy Lead Safeguarding Officer
• Director with designated responsibility for Safeguarding
• External independent representative(s) from EHA or SHA
• External Safeguarding ‘advisor /practitioner /expert’
Any additional persons may be called upon if the CMG feel their professional input is required.
Purpose
1. To make decisions as to what level each case should be dealt with.

2. To make decisions on all reported cases relating to the welfare of children, young people and
vulnerable adults. These decisions will relate to the route the case will take either internally or
via the external statutory agencies.
3. Monitor and review progress on all cases and to identify any trends emerging which may
require a review of current policies and procedures.
Terms of Reference
1. All referrals of potential child abuse, child welfare, poor practice / misconduct or as a result of
information received through a DBS disclosure must be reported directly to the British
Handball Lead Safeguarding Officer.
2. The British Handball Safeguarding Case Management Group (CMG) shall be appointed for each
case by the British Handball Lead Safeguarding Officer or the British Handball Chair.
3. The persons appointed shall be suitably experienced and/or qualified and will familiarise
themselves with the relevant legislation, policies and guidance.
4. The British Handball Lead Safeguarding Officer can directly advise the Police / Children’s
Social Care in the event of Safeguarding allegations deemed urgent. The British Handball
CEO and CMG should then be informed.
5. The CMG will operate independently of the British Handball Board.
6. Any person appointed to the CMG shall declare immediately to the British Handball Lead
Safeguarding Officer or CEO should they discover they are connected, or have any conflict of
interest in any case which would disqualify them from participation in any matters relating to
that particular case.
7. All documents to be held under the management and direction of the British Handball
Lead Safeguarding Officer.
8. The British Handball Lead Safeguarding Officer on receipt of referral will notify members of the
CMG within 48 hours. Upon receipt of the allegation the CMG must have an initial discussion
within 5 working days.
9. Any case involving Police, Social Care or LSCB investigation will pend the outcome of any
investigation by the statutory agencies. The CMG will decide in consultation with the statutory
agencies whether or not to initiate a temporary suspension.
10. In the case of information received through DBS Disclosure the CMG will act as per 7 above
and decide on the action (or no action) to be taken. An initial discussion should be held with at
least 2 members of the CMG to decide if the information could be relevant to Handball. If
either believe so, then:

o Further information gathered from individual
o CMG meeting held
o Decide on if temporary suspension is necessary and subsequent investigation
11. All Safeguarding and Welfare matters shall be regarded as highly confidential, not for
disclosure outside of the CMG unless agreed by the group in the interests of safeguarding, and
in line with the Data Protection Act.
12. Any member of the CMG who is accused of a criminal offence or poor practice misdemeanour
shall be immediately suspended from his / her duties with the CMG, pending investigation. The
British Handball Chair is the only person who can discharge any CMG member for whatever
reason deemed inappropriate in any post connected to CMG appointment.
13. A member appointed to the CMG may resign in writing addressed to the British Handball
Chair or Lead Safeguarding Officer. In the event of a resignation the knowledge, information
and case details of any case pending, completed or spent shall remain confidential with a
binding and permanent obligation.
14. The CMG may decide on the appropriate sanction, as outlined in the reporting procedures.
They may also decide to refer a matter to the British Handball Chair, another British Handball
department or process, or to another organisation such as the EHA or SHA.
Safeguarding Disciplinary/Appeals Management Groups
Separate Disciplinary and Appeals Management Groups comprise a minimum of three people, with the
exact membership determined by the nature of the case and availability of members. Groups will be
drawn from:
Disciplinary:
• One independent NED

• EHA CEO
• Director of Finance and Corporate Governance
Any additional persons may be called upon if the Disciplinary Management Group feel their professional
input is required.
Appeals:
• BHA Chair
• One independent NED (different to the individual who has sat on the Disciplinary Management
Group)
• Independent HR Consultant
Any additional persons may be called upon if the Appeals Management Group feel their professional
input is required.

13. Whistle Blowing Policy
All information received and discussed will be treated in confidence and only shared with those
individuals within British Handball who will be able to manage and resolve the situation. On occasion it
may be necessary to seek advice, or inform the statutory agencies.
Coaches, officials, team mates or parents may suspect that a young person’s safety and welfare are under
threat, but they may not express their concerns due to fear of harassment or victimisation.
In these circumstances it may be easier for them to ignore the concern, or hope someone else speaks out
rather than report what may be a suspicion of poor practice.
British Handball is committed to the highest possible standards of openness, honesty and accountability.
In line with that commitment, individuals are encouraged, if they have serious concerns about any aspect
of a young person’s safety and welfare, to come forward and voice those concerns. ALL those involved in
activity carried out under the jurisdiction of British Handball are covered by this policy.
Purpose
• To encourage individuals to feel confident and supported in raising concerns about the welfare
of young people involved in Handball in accordance with British Handball’s
• Safeguarding Policy and Code of Ethics and Conduct.
• To provide a method of raising concerns directly to the Safeguarding lead officer and to receive
feedback on any action taken.
• To ensure that individuals receive a response to their concerns and that they are aware of how
to pursue them if they are not satisfied.
• To reassure individuals that they will be protected from reprisals or victimisation for whistle
blowing in good faith.
Principles
This policy makes it clear that individuals can raise a matter of concern without fear of victimisation,
subsequent discrimination or disadvantage. The policy is intended to encourage and enable individuals to
raise serious concerns within Handball rather than overlooking a problem or having to look outside the
sport.
It is in the interest of all concerned that disclosure of potential abuse, poor practice or breaches of the
Code of Ethics and Conduct are dealt with appropriately. This is essential to ensure that the welfare of
children is prioritised and in the interests of all involved in Handball.
British Handball is committed to good practice and high standards and wants to be supportive of
everyone within the Handball community. The decision to report a concern can be a difficult one to make,
not least because of the fear of reprisal from those responsible for the alleged poor practice.
If an individual believes what they are saying to be true, they should have nothing to fear because in
reporting their concern they will be doing their duty to the young person concerned.
British Handball will not tolerate any form of harassment or victimisation and will take appropriate action
to protect individuals when they raise a concern in good faith.

Confidentiality
British Handball will do its best to protect the identity of the whistle blower when they raise a concern
and do not want their name to be disclosed. It must be appreciated that depending the identity of the
whistle blower may be apparent or a statement by the whistle blower may be essential as part of the
evidence. Any concerns about this should be discussed when the concerns are raised.
Anonymous Allegations
This policy encourages the whistle blower to put their name to their allegation, even if they do not wish
this to be disclosed to other parties. It may not be possible to seek further information or provide updates
if the allegations are anonymous.
Unfounded allegations
If an individual makes an allegation in good faith, but it is not confirmed by the investigation, no action
will be taken against them. However, if it is established that they have made malicious or frivolous
allegations, or for personal gain, disciplinary action may be taken against them.
How to raise a concern
The whistle blowing policy should only be followed if the person raising the concern feels unable to follow
the standard reporting procedures as set out in British Handball’s Safeguarding Policy.
Individuals should raise the concern in the first instance with the British Handball Lead Safeguarding
Officer. The individual should set out the background and history of the concern, giving names, dates and
places where possible and the reason why they are particularly concerned about the situation. The earlier
the individual expresses the concern, the easier it is for someone to take action.
Although the whistle blower is not expected to prove the truth of an allegation, they will need to be able
to explain clearly why they are concerned in order for the British Handball Safeguarding Officer to
determine whether that there are sufficient grounds for taking further action.
How British Handball will respond
The action taken by British Handball will depend on the nature of the concern. This could include
informing the statutory agencies, or formation of a British Handball Safeguarding Case Management
Group.
The amount of contact between the people considering the issues and the whistle blower will depend on
the nature of the matters raised, the potential difficulties involved and the clarity of the information
provided. If necessary, further information will be sought from the whistle blower as part of the
investigation process.
If any meeting is arranged, the whistle blower has the right, if they so wish, to be accompanied by a friend
or a person of their choice who is not involved in the matter to which the concern relates.
British Handball accepts that the whistle blower needs to be assured that the matter has been properly
addressed. Subject to constraints, they will receive information about the outcomes of any investigations,
and the action that is to be taken against those whose actions caused them concern. Also, if appropriate,
what policy changes are to be made to minimise the possibility of a similar concern being raised in the
future.

How the matter can be taken further
This policy is intended to provide individuals with a way in which they can raise concerns about the safety
and welfare of any young person involved in any Handball activity. British Handball hopes individuals will
be satisfied that any safeguarding issue raised has been considered appropriately. If they are not satisfied,
and if they feel it is right to take the matter outside of British Handball they should contact:
• The Safeguarding in Sport Unit (CPSU);

• Their local Children’s Social Care;
• Their local Police Safeguarding Team.

14. Code of Ethics and Behaviour
Who does this code apply to?
The content of this Code of Ethics & Behaviour applies to all players, staff, volunteers, and parents
involved in Great Britain handball. In order to protect the reputation of handball in Great Britain, the code
also applies to all those associated with the BHA who are involved in British Handball whilst outside the
UK.
All must adhere to the codes of conduct and have an essential role in upholding and implementing the
BHA Code of Ethics & Behaviour.
Staff:
Staff should be:
• Advocates of equality, fair play and safety in the practice and the Administration of handball
• Supporters of the BHA’s Code of Ethics & Behaviour and communicators of the Code to their
members.
• Influential in driving handball forward as a sport.
• Open in the recruitment of individuals to work within their organisations (either paid or
unpaid).
• Respect the spirit of fair play in handball. This is more than playing within the rules. It also
incorporates the concepts of friendship, respect for others and always participating with the
right spirit.
• Respect the rights, dignity and worth of others.
• Conduct themselves in a manner that takes all reasonable measures to protect their own
safety and the safety of others.
• Promote the reputation of the sport and take all possible steps to prevent it from being
brought into disrepute.
• Protect others involved in the game from verbal or physical abuse and threatening or
intimidating behaviour.
• Never use inappropriate language or gestures.
• Abide by the BHA Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy and Guidance & Good Practice.
• Take personal responsibility to ensure that they are suitably insured for their activities.
• Will not condone, assist or in any way support the use of prohibited substances and methods
(unless permitted by a Therapeutic Use Exemption) in any aspects of their work.
• Are expected to contact UK Anti-Doping should they become aware of an athlete or NGB
member using or considering the usage of a prohibited substance or prohibited method. This
contact should be done in confidence on the dedicated confidential Report Doping in Sport
line.
Players:
As a member of the Great Britain Handball Team your behaviour will reflect on your country and the
sport. Accordingly you must agree to conduct yourself in a proper manner at all times while participating
in GB Team activities and within all commercial and media activities for British Handball.

A. General Conduct
You agree to:
1. Make a positive commitment to supporting and achieving the aims and objectives of British
Handball.
2. Abide by all anti-doping rules and regulations at all times.
3. Conduct yourself in a correct and proper manner that portrays the sport in a positive light and
does not bring you, British Handball, the sport or any commercial partner into disrepute.
4. Maintain high standards of conduct and behave in a manner that shows proper respect for other
players and team staff when training and competing.
5. Refrain from excessive behaviour which would reflect badly on the sport and/or could prevent
you from maintaining the highest levels of performance.
6. Act as an ambassador for British Handball at all times.
7. Take personal responsibility for elements of team activity when required or asked to do so by a
member of the team management. This includes:
a) speaking up if you are unhappy about something (or know that someone else is);
b) being organised and on time for all travel, training and events;
c) watching out for each other to ensure that no Team Member is in danger;
d) not being afraid to tell fellow Team Members if you think their behaviour is unacceptable;
e) ensuring that you and others do not, at any time, engage in any illegal or irresponsible
activities.
f) where available, wear official GB team kit as requested by team management, including
during travel with team, at holding camps, at competition venues and at team hotels
g) whilst on team duty, not to publicise any personal sponsor that conflicts with British
Handball sponsor agreements or breaks any EHF/IHF rules. If in doubt, ask the Team
Manager
B. Behaviour when attending a competition as a member of a GB team
1. When residing in a team hotel/accommodation:

a) be courteous and respectful to other Team members, athletes, hotel guests and hotel
property at all times – others may be competing and/or training even after your events
have finished;
b) if you have any problems when at the Team hotel please speak to your Team Manager;
c) you will be allocated rooms on arrival. If you wish to change rooms you must clear it with
the Team Manager;
2. At all times you will:

a) keep your accommodation clean and tidy;
b) adhere to any signing in and out procedures if implemented by Team Management;
c) where the room is paid by British handball, pay for any extras you incur at the team hotel,
such as phone bills, room service, dry-cleaning etc.;
d) report any faults or damage to the team hotel to the Team Manager. Upon arrival, ensure
you inspect your own accommodation and report any faults or damage immediately;
e) maintain appropriate standards of conduct at any official events/celebrations;
f) use social media/blogging sites e.g. twitter/facebook in a positive light and share your
personal experience, whilst respecting the privacy of other individuals;
g) check any supplements/nutritional aids (particularly those bought in a foreign country) with
the medical team;

3. At all times, you agree NOT to:
a) allow any non-team member (male or female), into your room (this includes friends, family,
supporters and your personal coach);
b) appear in any public areas of hotels acommodation improperly or inappropriately dressed;
c) consume alcohol whilst wearing GB team kit.
Note: it is illegal at all times for British athletes under the age of 18 to drink alcohol.
Different countries around the world may set higher legal drinking ages (21 in the USA, for
example) and as such, where the legal drinking age is set higher than 18, all players will be
expected to abide by the relevant legal drinking age for any country they visit;
d) gamble on any event during a competition for which you are selected to represent the GB
Team;
Volunteers:
Respect the spirit of fair play in handball.
• Respect the rights, dignity and worth of others.

• Respect referees, officials, coaches, players and spectators.
• Relationships: Ensure a sensible balance between performance and the emotional, physical,
social and developmental needs of the performers.
• Relationships: Respect confidentiality of participants and any related data at all times.
• Personal Standards: Have the participants’ best interests at heart at all times and recognise
when it is in the participants’ best interests to be passed to other organisations.
Coaches and Volunteers should conduct themselves in a manner that takes all reasonable measures to
protect their own safety and the safety of others.
• Never participate when under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

• Competency: Have a BHA qualification / award / accreditation appropriate to the nature of the
activity and the role being undertaken.
• Competency: Have a valid First Aid – Emergency Aid Certificate, or ensure that appropriate first
aid provision is available.
• Personal Standards: Ensure that activities carried out by participants are suitable for their age,
strength, maturity and the ability of each individual participant.
• Safety: Ensure the wellbeing and safety of each participant above all other considerations,
including the development of performance.
• Safety: For any facilities used, have a working knowledge of: Normal Operating
• Procedures (NOPs); Emergency Operating Procedures (EOPs) and Facility risk assessments for
handball.
• Under 18 year olds: Should only work with a suitably qualified and insured adult and refer to
the Young Persons Code of Behaviour.
Promote the reputation of the sport and take all possible steps to prevent it from being brought into
disrepute.
• Accept success and failure, victory and defeat, with dignity.

• Ensure that all participants are aware of their responsibilities under the Code of Ethics and
Behaviour.
• Realise their responsibilities as role models and set positive examples for others, particularly
young participants and spectators.

• Personal Standards: Project an image of health, cleanliness and appropriate appearance for
any activity they are involved in.
• Personal Standards: Never smoke whilst participating in any British Handball activity.
• Relationships: Ensure that when in a position of authority this privilege will not be used to
exert influence over participants to gain personal benefit for themselves, their clubs or their
schools.
• Relationships: Set and uphold the boundaries between a working relationship and friendship
between themselves and participants when in a position of trust. This is essential when the
participant is a young person.
• Relationships: Never engage in any form of inappropriate personal or sexual relationship with
a participant (‘inappropriate’ – as defined within a position of trust within Sexual Offences
Act).
Protect others involved in the game from verbal or physical abuse and threatening or intimidating
behaviour.
• Never use inappropriate language or gestures.

• Never use foul, sexist, abusive, racist or any prejudicial language or tolerate it from players
and/or team officials.
• Abide by the BHA Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy and Guidance & Good Practice.
• Take personal responsibility to ensure that they are suitably insured for their activities.
Parents:
Respect the spirit of fair play in handball.
• Focus on the young people’s efforts and enjoyment rather than winning or losing.
• Teach young people that honest effort and teamwork are as important as victory, so the result
of each game is accepted without undue disappointment.
• Remember that people learn best by example. Appreciate good performances and skilful play
by all participants.
• Encourage people always to settle disagreements amicably without resorting to hostility or
violence.
Respect umpires, officials, coaches, players and spectators.
• Respect the decisions of officials and teach young people to do the same.
• Leave the coach to communicate with individual players on the field of play.
• Show an appreciation for volunteer coaches and administrators – their efforts contribute
hugely to young people being able to participate.
• Inform the team coach, manager, captain or, if there is one, another member of a
management team of any new or changed injury, health or welfare issue which they consider
is appropriate for them to know.
Anti Doping
All sporting participants have the right to compete in Clean Sport. British Handball condemns and is
totally opposed to performance enhancing and recreation drug use in the sport of Handball. The BHA is
committed to supporting the prevention of doping behaviour in the UK in collaboration with other
sporting bodies

The BHA adopts the UK Anti-Doping and World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) position that cheating,
including doping, in sport is fundamentally contrary to the spirit of sport, undermining the otherwise
positive impact of sport on society. The BHA is committed to Clean Sport and undertakes to work with
UKAD to deliver anti-doping education to all Great Britain team members. The BHA will uphold any
sanctions placed upon an athlete by UK Anti-Doping or other associated body in accordance with the
World Anti-Doping Code.
Further details about UK Anti-Doping and WADA can be found at www.ukad.org.uk and www.wada-
ama.org/
All involved in British Handball must:
• Familiarise themselves with the UK Anti-Doping Rules (available through the UKAD websites);
• Take sole responsibility for all foods, medications and supplements taken;
• Be aware of the implications and penalties in place for a positive doping test result;
• Be aware disciplinary action may be taken for criminal conviction for possession or use of
drugs.
Possible Sanctions
In affiliating to British Handball, everyone agrees to abide by this Code of Ethics and Conduct and all of
British Handball’s policies and procedures. British Handball therefore has the right to investigate and take
disciplinary action against any alleged or suspected breach of this Code of Ethics and Conduct which may
bring the game of British Handball into disrepute.
Players or staff who breach the code of conduct will be subject to sanctions commensurate with the
actions they have taken. Sanctions/actions to be taken may include, but will not be limited to, any of the
following:
a) immediate expulsion from the GB Team. The player/staff member concerned may be required to
return home, at their own expense, unaccompanied if appropriate;
b) exclusion from all further GB Teams either for an identified period of time or permanently;
c) direct billing for any damage caused or costs incurred;
________________________

BHA Safeguarding Guidance Update May 2019

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

BHA Safeguarding Guidance Update May 2019

Uploaded by

Document Information

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

BHA Safeguarding Guidance Update May 2019

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

BRITISH HANDBALL ASSOCIATION

GUIDANCE & GOOD PRACTICE

1. Safe recruitment of staff and volunteers (page 1)

2. PVG/DBS disclosures & Risk assessment (page 5)

3. Retention and Storage of records (page 11)

4. Use of Photography /Video (page 12)

5. Parent-Coach relationship (page 14)

6. Transport (page 15)

7. Overnight trips and/ or travel abroad - including hosting (page 17)

8. Managing Challenging Behaviour (page 20)

9. Anti-bullying (page 24)

10. Appropriate Communication (page 27)

11. Physical Contact (page 29)

12. Case Management (page 30)

13. Whistle Blowing (page 32)

14. Code of Ethics and Behaviour (page 35)

At British Handball the following steps will be carried out:

• a job description, including roles and responsibilities;

Advertising will reflect the:

• key responsibilities of the role;

Interview, references and disclosure

British Handball Association – Safeguarding Guidance 2|P a ge

All staff (paid or voluntary) will undergo an induction including:

• Information about the safeguarding policy and procedures;

Monitoring and appraisal

British Handball Association – Safeguarding Guidance 3|P a ge

Job Description, person specification & application form produced

Job advertised through British Handball or external agencies

Applicants complete and return application form and self-disclosure form

Short listing of candidates

Contact applicant for clarification Rejected at short

Interview with Senior

Qualifications and ID Applicant sent/emailed

Offer made subject to

Checks satisfactory – Unsatisfactory result

Notify applicant and

British Handball Association – Safeguarding Guidance 4|P a ge

This guidance covers:

• Eligibility to request a PVG/DBS

British Handball Association – Safeguarding Guidance 5|P a ge

▪ Carried out by someone who is in regulated activity

The Bichard Inquiry (see http://www.napta.org.uk/resources/bichard_inquiry.pdf) found responsibility for

Enhanced PVG/DBS Regulated activity Regulated activity Regulated activity with

Please note the following legal requirements:

British Handball Association – Safeguarding Guidance 6|P a ge

The relevant workforces are:

Single DBS Disclosures

DBS Update Service

British Handball Association – Safeguarding Guidance 7|P a ge

Accessing DBS checks

The PVG scheme

How the scheme works

Once someone is a PVG scheme member

'Harmful behaviour' by PVG scheme members

British Handball Association – Safeguarding Guidance 8|P a ge

How long does it last?

British Handball Association – Safeguarding Guidance 9|P a ge

Job offer made, subject to references

BHA receives Disclosure

Disclosure confirms information already Disclosure reveals new and relevant