7.6 The value of involving others when making decisions

Described image
Show description|Hide description

Four officials. Referee, coach, umpire, team official. In the middle of the graphic is a large green tick.

It is very important for your organisation to make sure that safeguarding decisions are not made by someone alone.

Next, we think about why working with others leads to better safeguarding decisions.

Why are collective safeguarding decisions better?

Think about all the ways that decisions can be improved by working with others.

To use this interactive functionality a free OU account is required. Sign in or register.
Interactive feature not available in single page view (see it in standard view).

Comment

Consulting with external experts or experienced colleagues is an important part of decision-making. By involving more than one person in the decision, it helps make sure it is not affected by one person’s biases. Who you involve will depend on your local context, but non-government organisations (NGOs), child protection services, your international federation (where relevant), other local sports organisations, or the police may all be able to support decisions and act as a sounding board.

It is good practice for your organisation to create a case management group. The role of this group is to take decisions in safeguarding cases. This collaborative approach helps ensure that the best decision is made, and the best course of action is decided upon. You will learn more about case management groups in the next course.

What if the concern is at the severe end of the abuse scale?

If a child seems to have been abused, is at risk of abuse, or a criminal offence may have been committed – this should immediately be referred to the relevant local services or the police for investigation. They are responsible for investigating allegations of child abuse. It is always best to contact them and seek their advice if you are unsure.

What if public authorities do not exist?

In some contexts, statutory public services may not exist or be fully operational. In this case, it is important for your organisation to build partnerships with trusted local organisations and NGOs, for example, those focused on child protection, or women and girls, whose staff are trained in child protection and case management.

Remember that deciding on the seriousness of a concern should be a collective and confidential process and not the decision of a single person.

7.5 Which organisations will be involved in responding?

7.7 Reports not meeting police or child protection service thresholds for action