1. Our Commitment
Pull Up Basketball is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and young people in our care. We believe that every child has the right to be safe, respected, and protected from harm, regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, or sexual orientation.
This policy applies to all coaches, volunteers, staff members, and anyone working on behalf of Pull Up Basketball.
2. Designated Safeguarding Lead
Pull Up Basketball has a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) who is responsible for safeguarding matters. The DSL can be reached at Info.pullupbball@gmail.com.
In the absence of the DSL, a Deputy Safeguarding Lead will assume responsibility. All safeguarding concerns must be reported to the DSL or their deputy as soon as possible.
3. Safer Recruitment
All coaches and staff working with children are recruited following safer recruitment practices:
- Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks for all coaches — no exceptions
- Minimum of two professional references verified before appointment
- Identity checks (passport or driving licence)
- Right to work verification
- Interview and skills assessment
- All qualifications verified (coaching badges, first aid, safeguarding training)
4. Coach Requirements
Every coach must hold and maintain:
- A valid enhanced DBS certificate (renewed every 3 years)
- A recognised basketball coaching qualification appropriate to their level
- A valid First Aid certificate (renewed every 3 years)
- Safeguarding and child protection training (refreshed every 2 years)
- Public liability insurance
5. Code of Conduct
All coaches and staff must:
- Treat every child with respect and dignity
- Maintain appropriate professional boundaries at all times
- Never be alone with a child out of sight of others
- Use appropriate language and never use physical punishment
- Report any concerns about a child's welfare immediately to the DSL
- Follow the sign-in/sign-out procedure for every session
- Wear appropriate clothing and visible identification
- Not consume alcohol or drugs before or during sessions
- Not transport children in their personal vehicles
6. Ratios and Supervision
- Maximum 15 children per group
- Ages 4-7: minimum 1:8 coach-to-child ratio (two coaches present)
- Ages 8-11: minimum 1:15 coach-to-child ratio
- Ages 12-16: minimum 1:15 coach-to-child ratio
- All sessions have a designated first-aider present
- Sign-in/sign-out required for all children under 8
- Viewing area available for parents at all venues
7. Responding to Concerns
If you have a safeguarding concern:
- Report it immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Lead
- Do not investigate the concern yourself
- Record all facts accurately and promptly
- The DSL will assess the concern and take appropriate action
- If there is immediate risk of harm, contact the police or social services
8. Photography and Video
- Photographs and videos may be taken during sessions for promotional purposes
- Parents/guardians will be asked for consent at the time of registration
- Consent can be withdrawn at any time by contacting us
- No identifying information will be published alongside images without explicit consent
- Personal devices (phones, cameras) should not be used to take photos in changing areas
9. Complaints Procedure
If you wish to make a complaint about any aspect of our safeguarding practice, please contact us at Info.pullupbball@gmail.com. All complaints will be investigated thoroughly, confidentially, and promptly. If you are not satisfied with the outcome, you may contact the NSPCC or your local Children's Services.
10. Review
This policy is reviewed annually or following any significant changes to legislation, guidance, or organisational structure. The most current version is always available on our website.
Useful Contacts
- NSPCC Helpline: 0808 800 5000
- Childline: 0800 1111
- Local Authority Children's Services: Contact via your local council
- Emergency: 999