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YOUNG PEOPLE FIRST
As an adult in Scouting you have a responsibility to ensure that young people are protected from harm. It is the responsibility of each adult in Scouting to ensure that:
· their behaviour is appropriate at all times
· they observe the rules established for the safety and security of young people
· they follow the procedures following suspicion, disclosure or allegation of child abuse
· the recognise the position of trust in which they have been placed; and
· in every respect, the relationships they form with young people on their care are appropriate
All Adults in Scouting, including Members of the Scout Network who wish to work with young people, must accept and understand this policy. They must also agree to put the Association's policy on child protection into practice.
Meeting your responsibilities
To give positive guidance the 'Young people First' (yellow card) sets out a code of behaviour. It is essential that all adults in Scouting follow this code. The 'do's and don'ts' can help you ensure that:
· the welfare of the young people for whom you have a duty of care is safeguarded
· you avoid compromising situations or opportunities for misunderstandings or allegations
Every Adult should have a copy of the code of good practice 'Young People First' (yellow card). The yellow card is designed for you to keep - carry it.
Check that:
· you have your own copy
· all other adults involved in the work of your Section/Group also have a copy
· you have a copy (A3) of the Yellow Card displayed in you HQ or meeting place
· parents / carers are made aware of the 'Young People First' Policy
DO put this code into practice at all times
DO treat everyone with dignity and respect
DO set an example you would wish others to follow
DO treat all young people equally . show no favouritism
DO plan activities that involve more than one other person being present, or at least are within sight and hearing of others
DO follow recommended adult/young people ratios for meetings and activities
DO respect a young person.s right to personal privacy
DO avoid unacceptable situations within a relationship of trust e.g. a sexual relationship with a youth Member over the age of consent
DO have separate sleeping accommodation for young people, adults and Young Leaders working with a younger Section
DO allow young people to talk about any concerns they may have
DO encourage others to challenge any attitudes or behaviours they do not like
DO avoid being drawn into inappropriate attention seeking behaviour e.g. tantrums and crushes
DO follow the Association.s 'no alcohol' guidance when young people are in your care
DO make everyone aware of the Association.s child protection procedures - young people, parents/carers,Young Leaders and other helpers
DO remember this code even at sensitive moments e.g. when responding to bullying, bereavement or abuse
DO keep other Leaders informed of where you are and what you are doing
DO remember someone else might misinterpret your actions, no matter how well-intentioned
DO take any allegations or concerns of abuse seriously and refer immediately
DO NOT trivialise abuse
DO NOT form a relationship with a young person that is an abuse of trust
DO NOT permit abusive peer activities e.g. initiation ceremonies, bullying
DO NOT engage in inappropriate behaviour or contact . physical, verbal, sexual
DO NOT play physical contact games with young people
DO NOT make suggestive remarks or threats to a young person, even in fun
DO NOT use inappropriate language . writing, phoning, email or internet
DO NOT let allegations, suspicions, or concerns about abuse go unreported
DO NOT just rely on your good name to protect you
You must refer; you must not investigate
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