Safeguarding

What is safeguarding?

Safeguarding ensures an athletic environment that is respectful, equitable and free from all forms of abuse and harassment of athletes.

Why is safeguarding important?

The safeguarding policy is needed to secure the most appropriate environment for the development of the athletes from their childhood onwards. It is formulated to protect the physical and psychological integrity of the athletes and any other person related to the paddling family.

Who does the safeguarding policy apply to?

All personnel involved in the sport of SUP at any level must adhere to this policy, including but not limited to:

• Athletes without restrictions of age, gender or abilities.
• Athletes entourage
• Coaches
• Medical and para-medical personnel
• Adaptive SUP classifiers
• SUPERCHAMPS Committee, associations and national federations
• Administrative Staff
• Officials
• Volunteers
• Sponsors
• Suppliers and providers
• All personnel accredited by SUPERCHAMPS and those hosting events

How can I report harassment or abuse in the sport of SUP?

If you or someone you know are in immediate danger you should contact the Police.

A report form is available to guide the provision of the necessary information to the SUPERCHAMPS. The report form should be sent to info@thelongpaddle.co.uk 

What are the definitions used for harassment and abuse?

Harassment and abuse are considered to be on a continuum; and therefore, should not be separated.

Harassment and abuse can be based on any grounds including race, religion, colour, creed, ethnic origin, physical attributes, gender, sexual orientation, age disability, socio-economic status and athletic ability. It can include a one-off incident or a series of incidents. It may be in person or online. All participants are susceptible to being a target of various forms of harassment and abuse.

Harassment and abuse often result from an abuse of authority, meaning the improper use of a position of influence, power or authority by an individual against another person.

Harassment or abuse may be deliberate, unsolicited and/or coercive. It may be in the form of bullying, hazing, homophobia, neglect, negligence, and physical, psychological or sexual abuse or harassment.

What are the limits of the SUPERCHAMPS jurisdiction?

The SUPERCHAMPS will investigate all complaints to review any alleged offences or breaches of conduct. 

Where possible criminal activities may have occurred the SUPERCHAMPS will work with the appropriate legal authorities.

The SUPERCHAMPS Committee will be the body to decide any suitable course of action if there has been a breach of the SUPERCHAMPS rules.