Safeguarding

Healthy Active: Safeguarding & Child Protection Policy

1. Statement of Intent

Healthy Active is committed to providing a safe and positive environment for all children and young people (under the age of 18) participating in our athletic development and injury prevention programs. We recognize that the welfare of the child is paramount and that all children have a right to protection from abuse, regardless of age, gender, disability, culture, language, racial origin, religious beliefs, or sexual orientation.

2. Our Responsibilities

As a specialist provider to County FAs, schools, and grassroots clubs, Healthy Active ensures that:

  • All consultancy and coaching services are delivered in accordance with The FA’s Safeguarding Children Policy and Working Together to Safeguard Children (2023).
  • We maintain high standards of professional conduct and clear boundaries in all interactions with young athletes and students.
  • We respond appropriately to any concerns regarding a child’s welfare.
3. Safe Recruitment & Quality Assurance

Healthy Active is led by specialist consultants who meet the following “Gold Standard” safety requirements:

  • Enhanced DBS: All staff hold a current Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
  • Safeguarding Training: Regular upskilling in Safeguarding Children and pediatric first aid.
  • Insurance: Comprehensive Public Liability and Professional Indemnity insurance.
4. Digital & Online Safety (Webinars/E-Learning)

In an increasingly digital environment, Healthy Active adheres to strict online safety protocols:

  • Secure Platforms: Webinars are delivered via secure, password-protected links.
  • No Direct Contact: We do not engage in private digital communication with U18 athletes via social media or messaging apps.
  • Authorized Attendance: For webinars involving youth players, a parent, guardian, or authorized club official must be present or have provided explicit consent.
  • Recording: Sessions involving U18 participants will not be recorded without prior written consent from the host organization and legal guardians.
5. Practical Delivery & Physical Contact

During face-to-face workshops and S&C sessions:

  • Coaching Methods: We prioritise “Voice, Vision, and Value.” Physical contact is strictly limited to essential safety adjustments or technical corrections, only with the athlete’s prior verbal consent.
  • Supervision: A representative from the host organization (e.g., School Teacher or Coach) must be present for the duration of the session.
6. Reporting a Concern

Any person who has a concern regarding the welfare of a child during a Healthy Active session should:

  1. Contact the Lead Consultant: Andy Lindegaard (Founder, Healthy Active).
  2. Contact the Host Organization: Notify the Welfare Officer or DSL of the school or Organisation involved.
  3. Statutory Bodies: If a child is at immediate risk of harm, contact the Police (999) or local Children’s Social Care.

Policy Review: This policy is reviewed annually to ensure it remains aligned with national legislation and NGB guidelines.

Last Updated: February 2026

Healthy Active

http://www.healthyactive.co.uk

info@healthyactive.co.uk