We are committed to ensuring our safeguarding practices comply with best practice and Scouting Ireland requirements, while reflecting statutory responsibilities and Government guidance. Young people in Scouting are supported, encouraged and facilitated by adult volunteers, all of whom understand the responsibility and trust placed in them by parents and guardians.
The welfare and interests of children are paramount in everything we do. We aim to ensure that all children have a positive and enjoyable experience of Scouting in a safe and child-centered environment. Children are safeguarded whilst participating in any Scouting activities, regardless of gender, marital status, family status, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, race and membership of the Traveller community.
Our Child Safeguarding Statement, with accompanying risk assessment, has been developed in line with the requirements under the Children First Act 2015, Children First: National Guidance, and Tusla’s Child Safeguarding: A Guide for Policy, Procedure and Practice.
Our safeguarding training is recognised by the Department of Children and Youth Affairs (DCYA) and the National Youth Council of Ireland (NYCI). Our child safeguarding and child protection policy and procedures listed below confirm that we:
Documents:
You can reach the Safeguarding Department at National Office by dialling 01 4998014
Monday-Friday 9am-5pm
or email safeguarding@scouts.ie.
If you consider that the child is in immediate danger please call the Garda Síochana or PSNI directly and then report to the Safeguarding Team as soon as possible
Advice is sought from the relevant statutory agency; Tusla, Garda Síochána, the relevant Gateway Services Team in the North of Ireland or the Police Service of Northern Ireland.
Reports are completed and sent to the relevant authorities.
All reports/concerns are treated with the upmost confidentiality.
All details and records are maintained and securely stored.
Support is offered to all parties.
We undertake vetting of all adults who are members of Scouting Ireland.
Provide training to ensure all volunteers and staff understand their roles and responsibilities regarding safeguarding in Scouting Ireland.
We review our processes every two years or sooner if deemed necessary by legislation.
Scouting Ireland are ensuring compliance in all safeguarding areas.