Whitehough Outdoor Activity Centre acknowledges the duty of care to safeguard and promote the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults; and is committed to ensuring safeguarding practice reflects statutory responsibilities, government guidance and complies with best practice.
We recognise that:
- The welfare of the children, young people and vulnerable adults is paramount.
- All people regardless of age, disability, gender, racial heritage, religious belief, sexual orientation or identity have the right to equal protection from all types of harm or abuse.
- Working in partnership with children, young people, their parents, carers and other agencies is essential in promoting young people’s welfare.
Risk Assessments
All of the activities offered at Whitehough are fully risk assessed by qualified and experienced staff from Burnley FC in the Community (BFCitC) and are updated annually (as a minimum).
The Centre is registered as a provider of outdoor and adventurous activities with Lancashire County Council’s Educational Visits Team and copy risk assessments are supplied pre-visit to upload to Evolve.
Visit leaders are encouraged to visit the site as part of their pre-visit risk planning, so that any potential concerns can be addressed as part of the risk assessment and management process.
Staffing and Supervision
BFCitC operate safe recruitment policies, insisting on DBS clearance for all staff. Safeguarding and behaviour management training is completed by all staff as part of their induction and refreshed annually.
Activities are organised in groups of up to 10 pupils per instructor, with at least one adult from visiting schools. The instructor will lead the session and manage equipment for the safety of the group and visiting staff are expected to take an active role in ensuring the behaviour and participation of group members.
Accommodation is offered in single sex dormitories, each accessible via a coded entry system. Group leaders are accommodated in individual rooms in each dormitory block and are responsible for the care and conduct of their group.
For all safeguarding matters, contact Safeguarding Officer, Sharon Swindells, on:
Email – s.swindells@burnleyfc.com
Telephone – 07809902145
If you are concerned about the immediate welfare or safety of a child, young person or adult at risk you should contact:
Police – Ring 101 or 999 in an emergency.
NSPCC – Ring 0808 800 5000, text 88858 or email help@nspcc.org.uk.
Local Authority’s 24-hour helpline – Ring 0300 123 6720 for both adults and children.