(Aligned with the Radio Society of Great Britain (RSGB) Safeguarding Guidance)

Policy Statement

Bury Radio Society (the “Society”) is committed to safeguarding the welfare of all its members, including children, young people, and vulnerable adults, by protecting them from harm and promoting a safe and positive environment in all Society activities.

The Society is affiliated to the Radio Society of Great Britain (RSGB) and endorses and follows the RSGB Safeguarding Policy and Procedures, which reflect current UK legislation and best practice.

Everyone involved in the Society shares a responsibility to ensure that all activities are safe, inclusive, and free from abuse or exploitation.

Purpose and Scope

This policy aims to:

• Ensure that safeguarding is understood and embedded throughout the Society.
• Protect children (under 18s) and vulnerable adults from harm while involved in Society activities.
• Provide clear guidance to members and volunteers on how to identify, report, and respond to safeguarding concerns.
• Support the RSGB’s national safeguarding framework.

This policy applies to:

• All members, guests, and volunteers of Bury Radio Society.
• All Society-related activities, whether on club premises, at field days, contests, training sessions, or online.

Responsibilities

Committee

The Committee holds overall responsibility for ensuring that this policy is implemented and reviewed annually.

Safeguarding Officer

The Society will appoint a Safeguarding Officer (SO) who will:

• Act as the first point of contact for any safeguarding concerns.
• Promote awareness of safeguarding among members.
• Liaise with the RSGB Safeguarding Officer where necessary.
• Refer serious concerns to appropriate external authorities (e.g. police, local authority safeguarding teams).
• Members and Volunteers

All members are expected to:

• Treat everyone with respect and fairness.
• Report any safeguarding concerns immediately.
• Follow this policy and RSGB safeguarding guidance.
• Avoid behaviour that could be misinterpreted or put others at risk.

Good Practice Guidelines

To promote a safe environment for all:

• Avoid being alone with a child or vulnerable adult whenever possible.
• Ensure that parental consent is obtained for under-18s participating in activities or appearing in photos or videos.
• Use clear, respectful communication both in person and online (including club forums, emails, social media, and on-air nets).
• Never engage in or tolerate bullying, harassment, or discriminatory behaviour.
• Report any concerns or incidents promptly.

Reporting Concerns

If you believe that a child, young person, or vulnerable adult is being harmed, is at risk, or you have concerns about behaviour within the Society:

1. Report immediately to the Safeguarding Officer (SO). Do not attempt to investigate the matter yourself.
2. If the SO is unavailable, speak to any Committee member.
3. If someone is in immediate danger, contact the Police (999).
4. The SO should also inform the RSGB Safeguarding Officer at: safeguarding@rsgb.org.uk
5. All reports will be handled sensitively, confidentially, and in line with RSGB and legal requirements.

Confidentiality and Data Protection

All safeguarding information will be treated as confidential and stored securely. Details will only be shared with those who need to know in order to protect individuals, in line with UK data protection legislation and RSGB guidance.

Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if:

• There are significant changes in legislation or RSGB policy.
• The Society undertakes new activities involving children or vulnerable adults.
• A safeguarding incident occurs which highlights a need for revision.

Key Contacts

Adopted by: Bury Radio Society

Date: 2026/01/05

Next Review Due: Committee Meeting Preceding AGM