What is safeguarding?​

Safeguarding is about creating a safe and welcoming environment for everyone involved, from young players to adult bowlers. It’s about taking steps to prevent and address any kind of harm or abuse. This includes supporting coaches and volunteers to spot potential problems, making sure Bowls England routes to reporting are clearly understood, and encouraging a culture of respect and fairness throughout the bowling community.​
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Who does safeguarding apply to?​

While safeguarding is often associated with children, it’s equally important for adults. Studies indicate that 47% of adults show characteristics of vulnerability and therefore may be at risk, highlighting the necessity of protecting all members.​
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What is not safeguarding?​

Safeguarding focuses on protecting individuals from harm, not on resolving broader issues like club culture or personality conflicts. These issues can often be resolved through a club code of conduct agreed upon by members. If this fails, Bowls England Regulation 9 must be followed.​
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How does safeguarding apply to small clubs?​

There is a misconception that smaller Affiliated Clubs are immune to safeguarding issues. However, it’s crucial to understand that safeguarding encompasses a broad range of concerns that could vary from discrimination, abuse or financial abuse through to unspent criminal convictions. Bowls England have seen many case studies showing how ‘safe’ clubs are often the most vulnerable.​
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Why do Bowls England expect Affiliated Clubs to have Safeguarding Officers?​

All major sports governing bodies mandate that Affiliated Clubs have designated Safeguarding Officers. This is standard practice and a clear expectation from the sports governmental body (Sport England). The absence of Safeguarding Officers is likely to create a gap that may be exploited by individuals seeking to harm our sport’s members.