Child Safeguarding Policy

1. Statement of Intent

Ballito United FC (BUFC) believes that every child, regardless of age, gender, ability, or socioeconomic background, has the right to a safe, fun, and inclusive environment. Our utmost priority is to protect the children in our care from any form of physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, neglect, or exploitation.

2. Legal Framework (South Africa)

This policy is strictly aligned with South African statutory law, including:

  • The Children’s Act No. 38 of 2005: Compels the reporting of any suspected child abuse or neglect.
  • Criminal Law Amendment Act No. 32 of 2007: Regulates offences against children and dictates verification against national databases.
  • POPIA (Act 4 of 2013): Protects the personal information and photographic data of minors.

3. Code of Conduct for Coaches and Officials

All BUFC staff, coaches, and volunteers must strictly adhere to the following behavioral boundaries:

  • Rule of Two: Avoid being alone, out of sight, or in enclosed spaces (like changing rooms or vehicles) with a single child. Ensure another adult or multiple players are always present.
  • Physical Contact: Physical contact must be strictly non-threatening, culturally appropriate, and limited to sports-related instruction (e.g., correcting posture) or open celebration (e.g., high-fives).
  • Digital Communication: Coaches may not engage in private, one-on-one text or social media messaging with junior players. All communications regarding training or fixtures must go through the official parent WhatsApp groups or the CoachBetter app via the parents.
  • No Favouritism: Treat all players equally. Do not give individual gifts, lift transport favors, or establish exclusive relationships with specific children.

4. Mandatory Reporting Procedure

Under Section 110 of the Children’s Act, any coach or official who concludes on reasonable grounds that a child has been abused, neglected, or exploited is legally mandated to report it.

  1. Immediate Internal Report: The official must immediately notify the BUFC Designated Safeguarding Officer (or Club Chairman).
  2. Statutory Reporting: The club must report the matter to the Department of Social Development, a designated child protection organization (e.g., Childline), or the South African Police Service (SAPS) within 24 hours.
  3. Confidentiality: The identity of the person reporting and the child involved must be kept strictly confidential under POPIA guidelines.