The BCA adopted a new safeguarding policy at their AGM Summer 2019. It is a requirement of BCA’s insurers that the BCA has a policy. This policy and procedures will be widely promoted and are mandatory for all BCA members and member clubs. Failure to comply with the policy and procedures will be addressed without delay and could ultimately result in exclusion from the BCA.

As a member club, the BEC agrees to abide by the British Caving Association’s (BCA) minimum guidelines as detailed in their Safeguarding policy documents which are available on the BCA website – https://british-caving.org.uk/about-bca/safeguarding/.

All BEC members are strongly advised to read the documents linked from this page especially ‘BCA good practice guidelines’ document.

General Policy Statement

The BEC acknowledges the duty of care to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and committed to ensuring safeguarding practice reflects statutory responsibilities, government guidance and complies with best practice.

Policy statement

For the purposes of this policy:

• A child is someone under the age of 18.
• A vulnerable adult is someone who may be unable to take care of him or herself, or unable to protect him or herself against significant harm or exploitation.

Guidance Notes

BEC Rules:

Rules covering children at the Belfry and at club events are detailed in the BEC Club Rules.

As under 18s are not permitted at the Belfry or at club events without a parent/guardian present, there is no requirement for the BEC to have DBS checks or have a Youth Officer.

Safeguarding contact:

The BEC shall nominate a Safeguarding Contact from within the BEC Committee (this will be the Membership Secretary unless stated otherwise).

Any BEC/BCA Safeguarding Incident forms may be shared with the BCA’s Safeguarding Officer.