CBL Safeguarding Policy

The Community Basketball League (CBL) is fully committed to providing a safe, supportive and enjoyable environment for all players, coaches, officials, and volunteers. We recognise our responsibility to protect the welfare of all children, young people, and vulnerable adults who participate in our activities.

Our safeguarding policy follows the principles, guidance, and regulations of Basketball England and relevant UK safeguarding legislation. We aim to ensure that everyone in the CBL can enjoy basketball in a safe and positive setting.

Our Safeguarding Commitment

- The welfare of the child is paramount.
- All children and young people have the right to protection from abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
- Everyone involved in the CBL has a duty to report any safeguarding concerns.
- All allegations and concerns will be taken seriously, responded to promptly, and followed up appropriately.
- We work in partnership with children, parents, carers, and external agencies to promote player welfare.

What We Do to Keep Players Safe

- All coaches and volunteers have enhanced DBS checks and safeguarding training.
- Every session has a trained first aider present.
- We follow strict supervision ratios for all age groups.
- We have clear codes of conduct for players, parents, and coaches.
- We risk-assess all venues before each season.
- We have a zero-tolerance policy for bullying, harassment, or abuse.

Designated Safeguarding Contacts

Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO)
Joanna Miller
📧 Primary: jmiller@london-basketball.com
📧 Secondary (during transition): joanna@cblhoops.co.uk

Deputy Designated Safeguarding Officer (Deputy DSO)
Tamika Roper
📧 troper@london-basketball.com

Basketball England Safeguarding Team (External Contact)
📧 safeguarding@basketballengland.co.uk
📞 0300 600 1170 (select safeguarding option)
🌐 basketballengland.co.uk/safeguarding

What to Do If You Have a Concern

If you are worried about the welfare of a child, young person, or vulnerable adult within the CBL:

1. Contact the Designated Safeguarding Officer or Deputy DSO immediately.
2. If they are unavailable and the matter is urgent, contact Basketball England Safeguarding or the police.
3. Do not confront the person the allegation is against.
4. Record the details of your concern as soon as possible and submit to the DSO.

Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if there are changes in legislation, guidance, or league operations.