Our aim is to provide a warm, friendly supportive environment where people of all ages can learn and develop the skills of field archery. As well as being a club for members, we will host training courses, open shoots and club events where under 18s may be present.

We operate under the direction of the National Field Archery Society (NFAS) who have directed that persons under the age of 18 now come under regulations with regard to children.

With this in mind the committee are developing a recording and reporting procedure to give protection to all at Ashcombe Valley Archers.

Concerns regarding the welfare of children are either
– Witnessed, either an action or marks/bruising as the result of an action
– Reported by the child either directly or indirectly
– Overheard or hearsay, where further enquiry might be required

Areas for concern could be physical or emotional
– Physical abuse or bullying
– Emotional abuse or fear
– Sexual abuse or improper touching
– Substance abuse, recreational drugs and /or alcohol which could impair the safety of others, illegal for under 18s.
– Tobacco or vaping, both of which are illegal for under 18s
– Self harming
– Behaviours that could harm self or others
– Coercion or radicalisation that could lead a young person to alter their behaviour or beliefs to the detriment of others.

IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF ALL CLUB MEMBERS TO PROVIDE A SAFE ENVIRONMENT FOR CLUB MEMBERS AND TRAINEES UNDER 18.

All concerns should be noted with dates, times, where the incident occurred and all witnesses, and reported to the designated club Child Protection Officer, Club Chairperson or Club Coach as soon as possible so that necessary actions, follow up actions and notifications can take place.

If you are worried about sharing concerns with club officers you can contact social services or police direct, or NSPCC child protection helpline 0808 8005000 or Childline on 08001111

The club will operate under the NFAS Child Protection Policy at all times.

In a safeguarding emergency where a young person is at immediate risk of harm call 999

Contacts Robert Heard designated CPO 07773714634