Dear Parents,

As the season gets underway, I want to clearly set out what we expect from parents to help keep children safe during cricket activities, particularly where juniors are playing, training or travelling as part of adult teams.

The Club has issued detailed safeguarding guidance to team captains, officials and helpers. Match days, however, are busy and captains have many competing responsibilities, so junior safeguarding matters will not always be at the top of their list. Parental oversight therefore remains essential and this is what we expect from parents.

Changing rooms
•     Under 18s should arrive changed for matches and training and should shower at home.
•     Adults and under 18s must not use changing rooms at the same time.
•     Males and females must not change together.
•     Mobile phones must not be taken into changing rooms where under 18s may be present.

Transport and lifts to matches
•     Parents remain responsible for arranging transport to and from matches and training.
•     Captains and other volunteers should not be relied upon to arrange transport.
•     Children should not receive lifts from adults without parental permission in advance.
•     Adults should not be alone in a car with a child and should not transport a child unless their own child is also present.

Photography
Parents are reminded that photographs or videos of children, other than their own, must not be shared on social media, and that only official Club accounts should post images relating to the Club.

Supervision and expectations
Team captains will be asked to communicate with parents and young players and to set realistic expectations around junior involvement in adult cricket. However, captains cannot take on parental responsibility. Parents should ensure their children understand appropriate behaviour, know who to speak to if they feel unsure or uncomfortable, and have clear arrangements in place at the end of matches and training.

If you have any safeguarding concerns at any time – please speak to me directly as soon as possible.

Tracy Wassall, Club Safeguarding Officer, 07775 540521, tracy.wassall@outlook.com