As a responsible organisation our Association takes the issue of Child Protection seriously and at the 2009 AGM the new post of Junior Coordinator was introduced which incorporates the responsibilities as the Associations Child Protection Officer.

For 2009/10 the incumbent of this post is Noel Clark who can be consulted on any Child Protection issue.

Noel can be reached on 01757 288356

WHAT'S IT ALL ABOUT?

Several years ago, in response to updated government legislation, the National Governing Bodies (NGBs) of all the different bowls disciplines came together to form the "Joint Panel for the Protection of Children and Vulnerable Adults" - the JPPCVA. As a result of this collaboration, the JPPCVA issued information, guidance and notes in a document entitled "PROTECTING CHILDREN AND THE VULNERABLE". The ESMBA subsequently published this document in 2003 on its website  (see http://esmba.co.uk/cpp_policy_84.html). Key excerpts from it were then issued to all Short Mat Clubs in the country via their annual "Information Pack" update later that year. (The document can also be viewed on the JPPCVA site at www.bowlschildprotect.co.uk) 

In February 2004, in response to these moves, the NYSMBA committee urged all its member clubs to familiarise themselves with this information and to take action where it was felt necessary - although no particular requirements were defined. However, after receiving further recommendations from the ESMBA in summer 2009, the NYSMBA management committee re-examined the issues raised in the original JPPCVA document. As a result of these further deliberations the following actions were taken at our September 2009 committee meeting - all based on JPPCVA recommendations.

1)  It was proposed that a change to our Constitution be made at the AGM in 2010 with a recommendation that all clubs consider making a similar change to their own Constitutions.

2) A CPP Policy Statement was issued to all our clubs with a recommendation that they endorse this and display it in their playing premises.

3) A Parental Consent Form was issued to be used by all member clubs from now on (replacing any that may currently be in use). This two page form is an amalgamation of several forms in the JPPCVA document and was submitted to, and approved by, the Chair of the JPPCVA (Pat Ostler) prior to issue.

4) A sheet of notes relating to Child Protection Officers (CPOs) and CRB clearance was issued with a strong recommendation to all clubs to appoint their own CPOs and to submit them for Enhanced CRB clearance.

It is recognised that the demands of implementing an effective CPP may mean more work for clubs and their officials but it is important that protection issues are not seen by clubs as a burden. Instead they should be seen as an opportunity to demonstrate their awareness and of the clubs commitment to keeping safe any individual taking part in its activities. Protection is the responsibility of the club as a whole and should be shared.