Safeguarding Policy

CrossFit Lymington Kids UK – Safeguarding Policy (2025)

Our Commitment to Child Safety

At CrossFit Kids, we are committed to creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment where children can thrive. We believe that every child has the right to be protected from harm, abuse, and neglect.

This policy outlines how we safeguard children in line with UK legislation, including:

  • The Children Act 1989 & 2004
  • Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) 2023
  • Working Together to Safeguard Children 2018
  • NSPCC Safeguarding Standards

Who This Policy Applies To

This policy applies to everyone involved in CrossFit Kids, including:

  • Coaches and trainers
  • Volunteers and staff
  • Parents and guardians
  • Visitors and external providers

Everyone has a legal and moral responsibility to safeguard children.

Key Safeguarding Principles

  • The welfare of the child is always paramount.
  • All children have the right to be protected, regardless of background.
  • Early intervention is key.
  • A child-centred approach is essential.
  • Everyone is responsible.

Code of Conduct for Coaches & Volunteers

  • Act as role models.
  • Use age-appropriate language and behaviour.
  • Maintain appropriate boundaries.
  • Ensure physical contact is appropriate.
  • Report all concerns immediately.

They must never:

  • Use physical punishment.
  • Make inappropriate jokes.
  • Ignore safeguarding concerns.
  • Communicate privately with children on social media.

Recognising & Reporting Concerns

What to look out for:

  • Physical abuse – Unexplained injuries.
  • Emotional abuse – Fearfulness, withdrawal.
  • Sexual abuse – Inappropriate comments.
  • Neglect – Poor hygiene, constant hunger.

How to Report a Concern

  1. Speak to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).
  2. Record the facts.
  3. Report to authorities if necessary.

Safe Coaching Practices

  • Age-appropriate programming.
  • Safe environment.
  • Supervision at all times.
  • No personal social media contact.

Parental Involvement

  • Open communication with coaches.
  • Awareness of child’s experience.
  • Following safeguarding guidance.

Allegations Against Staff or Volunteers

If an allegation is made, it will be taken seriously, investigated, and reported to authorities if needed.

Review & Updates

We regularly review this policy to ensure it aligns with UK safeguarding laws.

Safeguarding Lead: Duncan Aldous / If Duncan is not present, Judy Tew will report to him.

 

CrossFit Lymington - CrossFit Kids Risk Assessment

Introduction

At CrossFit Lymington, the safety and well-being of all children participating in our CrossFit Kids program are our top priorities. We have conducted a thorough risk assessment to identify potential hazards and put in place measures to minimise risks. This document provides an overview of our approach to ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all participants.

Identified Risks and Control Measures

1. Physical Injury (Sprains, Strains, Falls, or Impact Injuries)

Risks:

  • Incorrect exercise technique
  • Poor supervision
  • Slips, trips, and falls
  • Equipment misuse

Control Measures:

  • All sessions are led by certified CrossFit Kids coaches with first aid training.
  • Strict supervision with appropriate coach-to-child ratios.
  • Warm-ups and cool-downs included in every session to prevent injuries.
  • Progressive training approach tailored to individual abilities.
  • Clear instruction and demonstration of movements before execution.
  • Immediate first aid response and emergency action plan in place.

2. Use of Equipment

Risks:

  • Improper handling of equipment
  • Equipment failure or damage

Control Measures:

  • Age-appropriate and properly scaled equipment used.
  • Routine equipment inspections and maintenance.
  • Supervised use of all equipment with proper technique instruction.
  • Adequate spacing in training areas to prevent collisions.

3. Environmental Hazards

Risks:

  • Wet or uneven flooring
  • Insufficient ventilation or temperature extremes

Control Measures:

  • Daily facility inspections to ensure floors are dry and free of obstacles.
  • Adequate climate control measures in place.
  • Proper lighting to maintain visibility in all training areas.

4. Child Protection and Safeguarding

Risks:

  • Inappropriate behaviour or misconduct
  • Unauthorised collection of children after class

Control Measures:

  • All coaches undergo background checks and safeguarding training.
  • No child is left unsupervised before or after class.
  • Clear sign-in and sign-out procedures for parents/guardians.
  • Zero-tolerance policy for bullying or inappropriate behaviour.

5. Medical Emergencies (Allergies, Asthma, Pre-existing Conditions)

Risks:

  • Unidentified medical conditions
  • Allergic reactions
  • Dehydration or overheating

Control Measures:

  • Parents/guardians must complete a medical disclosure form before participation.
  • Coaches are trained in first aid, CPR, and emergency response.
  • Emergency contact information is on file for all participants.
  • Hydration breaks are enforced, and children are monitored for signs of distress.

6. COVID-19 and Infectious Diseases

Risks:

  • Transmission of illnesses within the group setting

Control Measures:

  • Regular cleaning and sanitization of equipment and surfaces.
  • Encouraging proper hand hygiene before and after sessions.
  • Clear policy for children showing symptoms of illness to stay home.

Ongoing Monitoring and Review

Our CrossFit Kids risk assessment is reviewed regularly to ensure it remains effective and up to date with current safety guidelines. We welcome feedback from parents and guardians to continuously improve our program and safety measures.

For further information or concerns, please contact owner Duncan Aldous.

Last Updated: January 2025

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